I only found out about yarn bombing a few months ago, and I’m still in awe of the whole concept. I haven’t seen any in person, but a quick Google search generates a plethora of weird colorful knitting that leaves me with my mouth hanging open, scratching my head. I look at the larger objects covered with yarn (cars, bicycles, statues) and wonder: How did they do that?

I’m not sure my nervous system can stand the stealthy night installations or the knowledge that some people (including the police) consider these fiber works vandalism, but I’m intrigued by the challenges yarn bombing presents: knitting large for irregular or lumpy 3-D objects.

I was so intrigued by the idea that I decided to try covering something with knitting myself. I picked a toy horse that came in a “decorate it yourself” kit. I had never gotten around to painting it and it seemed like a truly challenging shape to cover with knitting. Plus, I love horses.

Granted, it’s not big, and it’s not out in the public. But it’s 3-D knitting, it’s an irregular shape, and it was small enough I knew I could get it done in a reasonable amount of time. I declared it my “yarn-bombing experiment” and got started.

I made a gauge swatch so I would be able to translate inches on the horse into stitches and rows easily, but I didn’t write up any patterns. Instead, I knitted one section at a time, checking it against the toy frequently to make sure I was on the right track. I used increases, decreases, and short rows to shape each panel. Once a section was complete, I put it on the horse and sewed it to any other panels that were already in place.

Once it was done, I realized what I’d created: pony pajamas. And I love it! My little horse looks warm, cuddly, and colorful in her PJs.

I’m really proud of this project despite the odd lumps, awkward patches, and obvious seams. I applied what little I know about knitting and wound up with knitting that really fit my horse snuggly.

Now that I’m done, I’m still not in a hurry to try real yarn bombing. On the other hand, I’m looking around the house wondering what I could cover with knitting next.

Do you think the dog would sit still for me if I gave her enough treats? 🙂

Have you tried yarn bombing? Or been inspired to apply a familiar skill in a new and weird way? Feel free to tell us all about it!