Introduction

Knitting doesn’t always have to be complicated—sometimes the simplest stitches create the most charming results. In this project, we’ll learn how to make adorable knitted sheep decorations using just basic knit stitches and simple sewing. Each sheep consists of a colorful knitted body, a contrasting dark head with ears, and playful eyes.

These sheep are perfect as:

• Cute decorations for your home
• Children’s play toys (with embroidered eyes for safety)
• Seasonal décor for spring, Easter, or farm-themed parties
• Gifts for knitters or sheep-lovers

This is an excellent beginner knitting project, since the body is just a rectangle, and the head uses simple shaping. You’ll learn how to knit garter stitch and rib stitch, sew knitted pieces together, and add small finishing touches.

Materials Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Yarn (DK weight recommended, acrylic or cotton works well):
  1. Bright or pastel colors (for sheep bodies: blue, yellow, pink, green, white, etc.)
  2. Dark brown or black (for heads and ears)
  3. Optional: white or felt for eyes if not using googly eyes
• Knitting needles: Size US 6 / 4 mm (adjust depending on your yarn thickness)
• Tools:
  1. Yarn needle (for sewing pieces together)
  2. Scissors
  3. Stitch markers (optional)
  4. Fiberfill stuffing (optional, if you want a puffier sheep)
  5. Googly eyes, small buttons, or embroidery thread for eyes
  6. Glue (if attaching googly eyes)

Abbreviations & Techniques (US Terms)

• k = knit
• p = purl
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• CO = cast on
• BO = bind off
• Garter stitch = knit every row
• Rib stitch = alternate knit and purl stitches (commonly k1, p1)
• Inc = increase (knit into front and back of stitch)
• Dec = decrease (knit two stitches together)

Pattern Instructions

We’ll create the sheep in three parts: body, head, and ears, then assemble them with eyes.

1. Body (Rectangle)

You can choose between garter stitch (bumpy look) or rib stitch (stretchy vertical lines) for your sheep’s body. Both are shown in the image.

CO 20 sts.

• Row 1–24: Work in your chosen stitch:
  1. For garter stitch: knit every row.
  2. For rib stitch: (k1, p1) across each row.

➡ This will make a rectangle about 4 x 3 inches.

BO all sts.
Cut yarn, leaving a long tail for sewing.

📌Thank you for reading the article.

2. Head (Brown or Black Yarn)

The head is a simple triangle-like piece with rounded edges.

CO 10 sts.

• Row 1–2: Knit all stitches.
• Row 3: k2tog, k6, k2tog. (8 sts)
• Row 4: Knit all stitches.
• Row 5: k2tog, k4, k2tog. (6 sts)
• Row 6: Knit all stitches.
• Row 7: k2tog, k2, k2tog. (4 sts)
• Row 8: Knit all stitches.
• Row 9: k2tog twice. (2 sts)
• Row 10: k2tog. (1 st)

Cut yarn, pull through last stitch, and secure.

3. Ears (Make 2 per sheep, Brown or Black Yarn)

CO 4 sts.

• Row 1–2: Knit all stitches.
• Row 3: k2tog, k2tog. (2 sts)
• Row 4: k2tog. (1 st)

Cut yarn, pull through stitch, and secure.

4. Assembly

1. Prepare the body: Lay the rectangle flat. If you want a puffier sheep, lightly stuff the inside and sew side edges together into a pouch. Otherwise, leave flat.
2. Attach the head: Sew the head onto the top corner of the rectangle. Position it so it leans diagonally (like in the photo).
3. Sew ears: Attach one ear to each side of the head.
4. Add eyes:
   1. Glue googly eyes in place
   2. Or sew on small buttons
   3. Or embroider eyes with white and black yarn for child-safe toys
5. Finishing: Weave in all loose ends. Shape the sheep by tugging corners slightly.

Optional Tips and Variations

• Different Stitches for Body: Try seed stitch, moss stitch, or even stockinette for different sheep textures.
• Color Variations: Bright rainbow sheep, pastel Easter sheep, or classic white sheep with black heads.
• Eyes: Felt circles, embroidery, or crochet tiny white ovals for more secure eyes.
• Tails: Add a small pom-pom or crochet a tiny nub at the back.
• Hanging Decorations: Add a loop of yarn on top and use them as bunting or Christmas ornaments.
• Kids’ Craft: Let children glue on eyes or decorate with small bows, giving each sheep its own personality.
• Farm Set: Knit a group of colorful sheep as part of a farm-themed set with other animals.

Beginner’s Troubleshooting

• My rectangle curls at the edges: That’s normal for stockinette; switch to garter stitch for flat edges.
• My sheep looks uneven: Make sure to count rows so each body is the same size. Blocking (gently shaping with steam or water) can help.
• Head is too small/large: Adjust by casting on 8 or 12 stitches instead of 10.

Conclusion

Congratulations—you’ve just knitted your own sheep decoration! 🐑 Whether you make just one or a whole colorful flock, these sheep are fun, quick, and easy to create. They’re perfect for beginners who want a playful project while practicing knitting basics.

Once you get comfortable, experiment with colors, sizes, and stitch textures to make each sheep unique. These little woolly friends will brighten any room, bag, or gift basket.