“Sunrise Side” is Michigan’s nickname for the northeast section of its lower peninsula. That’s where this bear originated: in Montmorency County where there are real bears aplenty. And they don’t wear cute mistake rib scarves.

Sunrise Side Bear is an easy knit. It’s suitable for a beginner knitter including because the directions for the four short row sections are set out in detail. All knitters will enjoy it for its ease of knitting and assembly. It’s knit flat and all in one piece. The pattern includes photos of various stages of production and assembly.

Any worsted or Aran weight yarn works well. Sunrise Side Bear needs to be knit on needles 2-3 sizes smaller than typical for the yarn weight because this bear is shy about having his stuffing show. Knit to gauge, the bear is about 9 inches/23 cms tall and 6 inches/15 cms from arm-to-arm.