Lookin' Sharp

Okay. These things are seriously the cutest..

So, I'm sure like many of you out there, I can barely keep plants alive.. Even the ones you just leave alone. I don't know what it is but I just didn't inherit my mothers amazing green thumb. But just cause you're a plant killer like me, doesn't mean you can't enjoy some succulent beauty on your desk!

Below is a pattern that I designed and am happy to share with my fellow cactus lovers. Whether it be a decoration for your desk with a happy face to remind you, "life ain't so bad if you're a happy cactus", or if you want a simple, yet functional piece that's fun to look at  AND holds your pins.. I got you, yarn fam.

Pattern:

   Materials: 

• G hook (4mm)
• tapestry needle
• Worsted Weight yarn (I used Lion Brand - Vanna's Choice in Fern, Dusty Green, and Olive and Pink for the flower)
• 2- 12mm safety eyes
• Fiber fill for stuffing
• a small pot (about 2.5" diameter)
• a small amount of felt or string for a smile or mouth​​

      ​Instructions:

1. Ch. 20
2. Hdc in the 2nd ch from your hook and in each st across (19hdc)
3. Ch 1, turn, hdc in BLO of each stitch across

​       4-16. Repeat row 3​

  ((DO NOT FASTEN OFF))
       

• Fold your cactus in half so that the foundation row lays over top of the last row. Working in both loops, sc across to join both sides together. 
• Cut your yarn, but leave a 6" tail. Using a tapestry needle, close the top of your cactus by weaving through each of the Ch 1 spaces 
• Take your 2 safety eyes and place them where you want, then using your fiber fill, fill that bad boy as much as you can!
• I usually sew on the mouth/smile after being stuffed, but feel free to do it before-hand if it would make it easier!
• Using the same colored yarn, cut off another 6" piece and, like before, use your tapestry needle to weave through the Ch 1 spaces to close the bottom of your cactus. 

At this point, you should have a cute little bean-lookin thing, both ends closed, and adorned with 2 eyes and a silly smile. See below for the tiny flower hat pattern!

Flower Pattern:

1. Using your 4mm (G) hook and Pink yarn, Ch 5
2. Tr in 3rd Ch from your hook, and again in the next st. 
3. Sl St in last Ch, and Ch 4
4. Tr in 3rd Ch from your hook, and again in the next st.
5. Sl St in same st as your Ch.
6. Repeat #3-5 until you have 5 flower leaves.
7. Using the ends, tie onto cactus head and weave ends into the fluff.​

And there you have it. No more walks of shame to the dumpster to throw away yet ANOTHER air plant, or aloe.. or any other plant that's impossible to kill yet we find our ways to get it done. 
Enjoy your little cutie and PLEASE tag me on IG: @instagnarlea and use #gnarlea so I can see your creations!

For more fun patterns or to order a cactus buddy for yourself, you can visit my Etsy Shop!