This elephant rattle pattern is easy to follow, and the finished item works up quickly, making an adorable last-minute gift for a new baby.

The handle of the rattle is about 12 cm long, and is easy for little hands to grasp. A large bell inside the head (with three smaller bells placed inside) makes a jingle noise when the rattle is shaken, and cellophane inside the ears makes them crinkle when moved. A satin ribbon tail is a nice ‘feely’ detail for babies to play with.

The pattern calls for 4 ply yarn in three colours (however, any number of colours could be used, depending on your choice), and double strands are used throughout. As a substitute, a single strand of chunky yarn could be used (also with a 5.00 mm hook), to give the same result.

Gauge is not important for this pattern.

Additional materials required are:

• darning needle
• teddy filling
• large bell, approximately 20 mm in diameter
• three small bells, approximately 5 mm in diameter
• very small zip lock plastic bag
• cellophane (or other ‘crinkly-sounding’ plastic)
• 15 cm satin ribbon, approximately 15 mm in width
• small amount of black yarn (DK)