Mea (pronounced MAY-uh) is an easy-going marsupial, fond of long naps, long hugs and eucalyptus-flavoured baked goods. Originally from the forests of eastern Australia, he never quite got accustomed to British weather, and can usually be seen wearing his cosy blue jumper. His friend Kala, on the other hand, likes the weather just fine, and prefers a more natural look.

For this pattern you will need:

• 10g light grey DK yarn

• Around 50 cm dark grey DK yarn

• Around 30 cm black DK yarn

• 10g DK yarn in your choice of colour(s) for the jumper

• 3.5 mm crochet hook (UK 9, US E/4)

• 10 mm safety eyes (optional)

• Stuffing

• Darning needle

• Any crochet hook smaller than 3.5 mm to weave in loose ends

• Stitch markers to keep track of the end of your most recent round (and to help you place the safety eyes, if you’re using them)

Difficulty: no complex stitches, but some fiddly sewing, especially in the jumper.