Bonnie the Cow & Friends

Introduction 6
Tools and materials 8
Techniques 14
Crochet stitches 16
Bringing the toys to life 30

Meet Bonnie's family 40
Bonnie Cow & Isla Calf 42, Ava and Maya Lovebirds 48, Finlay Dog 52, Elsie Cat 58, Maisie Hedgehog 62, Mack Mouse 68, Oscar Deer 72, Daisy Doe 78, Riley Robin 84, Rosa Blue Tit 88, Angus Goat & Tilly Goat 94, Mary Badger 102, Finn Fox 108, Harry Tufty-Eared Owl 112, Freya Barn Owl 116, Frankie Frog & Freddy Frog 122

About Claire Gelder

Claire Gelder loves all things hand-made, hand-woven and hand-crafted. She has been crafting for relaxation and fun for over twenty years.

In 2015, Claire left her career as an NHS Director to launch her new business, Wool Couture, which specializes in knitting, crocheting, weaving and macrame. She quickly got her DIY craft kits on the shelves of retail giant John Lewis and, in 2017, secured two Dragons' Den investors to help her pass on her passion of crafting to the next generation. Adding a modern twist to age-old pastimes knitting and crochet, Claire uses giant, chunky yarn and oversized knitting needles made in her own factory.

As well as a successful entrepreneur, Claire is also a firm believer in the therapeutic side of craft, particularly its benefits to mental health and well-being.

Claire lives in Wakefield, UK and is proud to be continuing Yorkshire’s textile tradition. Her website is www.woolcouturecompany.com.

Inside Crochet

We cant resist the lure of a new book packed with cute crochet creatures to treasure. Bonnie the Cow & Friends is packed with loveable characters, including farm animals, wildlife, and garden birds. A beautiful crochet toy is not only cheering to make, but they are also gorgeous to give as gifts too.

This book uses Wool Coutures 100% Merino Cheeky Chunky yarns for all the main projects to create the softest, cuddliest toys, although you can substitute other chunky yarns. Claire includes photo-illustrated step-by-step guides to all the stitches youll need to complete the projects including helpful tips for assembling and finishing toys.

The animals in this book are so appealing you wont know which one to start with from the shaggy coated Bonnie the Cow and her little calf Isla to the deer and doe, Oscar and Daisy, and the elusive woodland duo, Mary Badger and Finn Fox, theres an ami friend in here thats perfect for everyone.

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People's Friend Special 223

They dont come much cuter than this when it comes to crochet creations. This is the third book by  Claire that not only has Bonnie the Highland cow and her calf, but other adorable animals such as a fox, hedgehog and birds, too. In soft, chunky yarn, they make the perfect gifts for little ones. The substantial projects the toys are about 70 cm with the babies 35 cm are perfect for beginners through to those who have already mastered the basics of crochet.

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Booklist

Crochet stuffed animals are a perennial craft favourite, and author Claire Gelder is experienced at designing and writing straightforward patterns for these creatures. In addition to the titular Bonnie Cow, a variety of familiar beasts are featured here, including Elsie Cat, Finlay Dog, Mack Mouse, and an assortment of specific birds. A combination of colour contrasts, yarn texture, and a handful of stitch techniques bring life and character to these endearing critters. All are meant to be slightly understuffed, giving the desired floppiness and avoiding the sometimes-stiff texture of crochet.

Clearly written patterns preceded by a step-by-step instructional section with photographs deliver achievable projects with cute personalities.