The reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) is part of the deer family (Cervidae) with uncles and aunts like deer, elk, moose and wapiti. Reindeer are also called caribou in North America. The name “reindeer” comes from the old Norse word ‘hreinn’ which means deer and has nothing to do with the reins of a sled. It is no wonder many people think reindeer originate from the North Pole: they are very well adapted to the cold. Their noses are especially designed to warm the air before it gets to the lungs and the large density of blood vessels, that keep these noses warm, actually accounts for the occasionally rosy color of the nose!
Whether knitting a Rudolph, Vixen or Blixen, you can decide for yourself which color your reindeers’ nose is going to be!

This reindeer is a medium level knit and was knitted on 2.25 mm double pointed needles (UK 13, US 1). It was knitted in Phildar Laine Mohair Soie (0101) Noir, Rowan Felted Tweed (177) clay, carbon (159) and cinnamon (175), Lana Grossa Alpaca Peru 200 (211) dark brown and Lana Grossa Voi Ragazza (07) white. This model measures 16 cm from nose to bum and requires some intarsia, i-cord and short row knitting, knitting both in the round and flat and transferring/picking up of stitches. Pipe cleaners were used to firm up the limbs.

Ho Ho Happy Knitting!