This ladybug rattle pattern is easy to follow, and the finished item works up quickly, making an adorable last-minute gift for a new baby.

The handle of the rattle is about 12 cm long, and is easy for little hands to grasp. A small bell inside the head makes a jingle noise when the rattle is shaken. Satin ribbons for legs are nice ‘feely’ details for babies to play with.

The written pattern (in US terms) calls for DK yarn in three colours: red, black, and white.

Gauge is not important for this pattern.

Additional materials required are:

- darning needle
- teddy filling
- small bell, approximately 10 mm in diameter
- very small sample/specimen container
- 0.5 m black satin ribbon, approximately 3 mm in width