Just finished knitting Pierre the Bear from the Leisure Arts downloadable pattern.  I found the pattern in the archives when I signed up for the Leisure Arts newsletter but he’s available for purchase here.  Pierre was a really simple knit.  He’s knit in one piece with the arms knit separately and attached later.  I must admit, I attached his arms a little too low but the sweater covers up my shoulder issue.

I’m really pleased with the shaping of his head.  This is the first bear pattern that I’ve knit that uses increase and decreases for his nose.  Most of my other bear patterns have a separate piece that needs to be sewed on to the head.  I used a plastic nose from my animal parts supply and it’s just the right size.  His eyes are from my collection too.

The yarn makes this bear special, too.  It’s left over from a sweater that I made with yarn that I purchased on my first visit to Cheltenham in England.  I visited a lovely yarn shop there.  The yarn is Stylecraft Aran with Wool.  I’ve been wearing the sweater for about 5 years and it’s still in great shape.

His sweater and overalls are knit with Plymouth Encore DK.  As with the worsted weight of Encore, this yarn is great to knit with. 

There’s a Mimi the Bear pattern too.  I’m going to download that one next.  Leisure Arts is holding a 15% off sale using code ART15 through April 30 so it’s a great time to get Mimi.

I’m moderating a group on Ravelry for Fans of Leisure Arts patterns.  If you haven’t joined the group yet, I hope you’ll stop by and visit.  We’re talking about both new and old Leisure Arts favorites.