I hope these cheery little bowling skittles help keep little ones occupied in times when it’s not possible to play outdoors.

Each skittle is knit in the round from the bottom up using a sturdy, high-twist yarn to give it structure. A square garter-stitch base is knit first, then stitches are picked up around the edges, joined in the round, and the bowling-pin shape of the skittle is made with increases, decreases, and double decreases. The neck is knitted in on smaller needles to make it extra sturdy and prevent sagging. A 2-inch/5-cm diameter fender washer (or coin, button, cardboard disc, etc.) placed in the bottom of the body helps anchor the skittle and keep it standing upright. French knots form the eyes and mouth and an I-cord loop at the top of the head makes it easy for little hands to pick up the skittles after they’ve toppled.