Look up high to find this crochet creation decorating your home or office: it’s a bear in a hot air balloon! Included with this pattern are instructions for both the hot air balloon and bear. The bear is removable and can be replaced with any other object. The finished balloon (including basket) measures 10 inches tall and 5 inches wide. The removeable bear measures 3-1/2 inches tall and 1-1/2 inches wide.

This pattern is designed at the intermediate level for those who have learned the basic stitches of crochet and can apply them in creative ways. Self-striping or variegated yarn can be used to give the balloon an interesting design without changing the yarn.

The pattern is no-sew. The balloon is attached to the basket with crochet stitches, and the bear is made from one continuous piece of yarn. The only sewing needed would be a few stitches for the bear’s facial features.

Skill level: intermediate
Language: English with US crochet terms
Supplies needed:

• medium/worsted weight yarn
• E/4 (3.50mm) crochet hook
• 8 mm plastic eyes (instructions for embroidered eyes are given)
• polyester fiberfill
• yarn needle
• scissors
• stitch markers