PDF Pattern
Spidey is an enjoyable, spooky knit. He’s created through the use of two-color twisted stitches, along with some unusual stitches like cluster stitches and a k5tog (instructions included) that emphasize the three-dimensional qualities of the motif. You can actually stuff the spider’s abdomen! Fun and creepy, this pumpkin will be a great addition to your fall décor. (I did actually have a dream about spiders while designing this pumpkin!)
While it is written for two colors, this pumpkin can also be knit in a single color, since the spider is 3-D. Be sure to allow for enough yardage if making this option. I think the design would be great knit in natural to create a “ghost” pumpkin.
This pattern provides a chart for the spider section of the pumpkin. The instructions for that section are also written out line-by-line. These instructions are provided at the end of the pattern and need not be printed if one is using the chart.
Skills Needed: Working in the round, reading colorwork charts (line-by-line instructions for the charted sections are also included), knitting through the back loop, yarnovers, kfb, m1 and m1p increases, k2tog, ssk, p2tog and p2tog tbl decreases, twisted stitches, and i-cord (instructions included).
Measurements, approximate (These will vary depending on amount of fiberfill used):
Circumference: 33 in [84 cm]; diameter: 10.5 in [27 cm]; height: 7 in [18 cm].
Yarn:
MC: 300 yds [275 m] Manos Del Uruguay Alegria (Fingering; 75% Merino Superwash/25% Polyamide; 445yds/100 g) in Cusco.
CC: 125 yds [115 m] Malabrigo Sock (Fingering; 100% Superwash Merino Wool; 440 yds/100 g) in Black.
Stem: 30 yds [27m] Yama Yarn Merino Linen Singles (Fingering; 90% South African Merino/10% Linen; 394 yds/100 g) in Terre Verte BG.
Needles:
Base of Pumpkin, Crown, and Stem: US size 2 (2.75 mm) double pointed needles and 16 in. (40 cm) circular needle.
Colorwork Section of Pumpkin: US size 3 (3.25 mm) 24 in. (60 cm) circular needle.
Gauge: 33.5 sts and 32 rnds = 4″ [10 cm] in charted pattern st on larger needles. This pattern is worked at a tighter gauge than normal so the fiberfill does not show through fabric.
Other Materials: Stitch markers if desired, small tapestry needle, tape measure, 1 bag (16 oz.) polyester fiberfill (you will not need the entire bag).