This ladybug 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 small bell inside the head makes a jingle noise when the rattle is shaken. Satin ribbons for legs are nice ‘feely’ details for babies to play with.

The pattern calls for DK yarn in three colours: red, black, and white.

Gauge is not important for this pattern.

Additional materials required are:

• darning needle
• teddy filling
• small bell, approximately 10 mm in diameter
• very small sample/specimen container
• 0.5 m black satin ribbon, approximately 3 mm in width