My family has a fine tradition of nurses: my two sisters, my aunt, and my grandmother are all nurses. However, I didn’t get the nursing gene; I got the artsy-craftsy gene. So I was inspired by these talented women to create these fast, easy, cute crochet patterns with a medical theme.

For even more medical/blood cuteness, check out my blood cell trio: the Red Blood Cell, White Blood Cell, and Platelet.

To make syringe and friends, you will need an E/3.5mm hook, worsted weight yarn, (6) 6 mm black beads or buttons, stuffing, pink and white felt, black embroidery floss, and glue. You will also need a plastic drinking straw for the Syringe and plastic cross-stitch canvas for the Tongue Depressor. You can also make a blood-filled syringe by adding red yarn (see photo).

Finished Sizes:
-- Soft Syringe: 8 inches (20 cm) tall
-- Tongue Depressor: 5 inches (12 cm) tall
-- Bandage: 4 inches (10 cm) wide

Patterns are for those with intermediate crochet skills and basic needle-work skills. Parts are made in spiral rounds. You will need to know how to:
-- read a crochet pattern
-- chain
-- single crochet
-- single crochet decrease or invisible decrease
-- color switch
-- optional: magic adjustable loop
-- basic needlework such as whipstitch and running stitch

Patterns include:
-- definitions of stitch abbreviations
-- materials list, including recommended yarn and where to find mat’ls
-- instructive photos
-- links to helpful online crochet tutorials

I am happy to answer questions via email. If you wish to sell your finished toys, please give written credit to “Jana Whitley Designs.”