Pumpkin Tea Cosy

BY CLAIRE GARLAND

This spooky pumpkin tea cosy is perfect for a Halloween tea-time surprise – children will love it.

Time: 2 days

Difficulty: Fancy a challenge

You Will Need

5mm (US size 8) knitting needles

1 × 100g ball Rowan Creative Focus Worsted in following colours: orange (A) and green (B)

White and brown yarn

1. Knit the tea cosy following the pattern below:

Sides (make 2)

Cast on 40 sts.

Row 1 (RS): Using A, [K6, p2] 5 times.

Row 2 Using A, [k2, p6] 5 times.

Rows 1 and 2 form patt.

Cont in patt (Row 2) until side measures 15cm (6in), ending WS.

Shape top

Keeping patt correct, cont as follows:

Next row (RS): (dec) K6, p2tog, rep from * to end. 35sts

Next row: *K1, p6, rep from * to end.

Next row: (dec) K5, p2tog, rep from * to end. 30sts

Next row: (dec) P4, k2tog, rep from * to end. 25sts

Next row: (dec) K3, p2tog, rep from * to end. 20sts

Next row: (dec) P2, k2tog, rep from * to end. 15sts

Stalk

Change to yarn B.

Next row: *K1, p1, rep from * to last stitch, k1.

Next row: *P1, k1, rep from * to last stitch, p1.

Rep last 2 rows twice.

Next row: (dec) *K1, p2tog, rep from * to end. 10sts

Next row: *K1, p1, rep from * to end.

Next row: (dec) K2tog 5 times. 5sts.

Cast off.

2. Join sides leaving spout and handle openings. Embroider face using the photograph as a guide.