The red squirrel is one of the UK’s most loved small mammals. Their cheeky demeanour and charming tufted ears and tail endear them to many of us. These delightful knitted squirrel sisters are knitted using a tweedy double knit yarn and silk mohair. Extravagant Suzie sports a super tufted tail whereas thrifty Layla has a looped tail that gives her a pleasing look using less wool.

Knitted on straight needles, the seams help to give your squirrels structure. Most of the work is in stocking stitch, using two yarns held together. The knitting and sewing skills required are not extensive but there are many increases and decreases in this pattern that require attention to detail, making the pattern unsuitable for beginners unless they are very patient. This pattern may be used to make a decorative item or a toy.

Materials
1 x 50 g orange double knit wool, e.g. Willow and Lark Woodland in marmalade (410).
1 x 25 g orange silk mohair, e.g. Willow and Lark Plume in marmalade (313)
1 x 50 g ecru double knit wool, e.g. Willow and Lark Woodland in rolled oats (406).
1 x 25 g ecru silk mohair, e.g. Willow and Lark Plume in milk (301)
Small oddment black 4 ply wool or black embroidery thread
Small oddment dark grey double knit or 4 ply wool (optional)
3.25 mm straight needles
waste wool/spare needle 3.25 mm or smaller/stitch holder
stitch marker
toy stuffing
eyes, either 6 mm safety eyes or black embroidery thread
weights, e.g. 3 x 2p coins in the UK. Enclosed firmly in, for example, an off-cut of felt bound with waste yarn, the coins stacked one on top of the other (optional, omit if a toy for a toddler).
A pair of 3.25 mm straight needles
A single or double pointed needle in a smaller size (eg 2.75 mm) for picking up stitches. (optional).
large tapestry needle
wire brush, e.g. pet grooming brush, suede brush (optional).