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Do you ever have those ideas that wander around in your mind for ages? They might be there for years and you get so used to them being there that they become part of the furniture in your mind? Each of the three toys I have designed were that way for me. They have been with me since I was a kid myself. Oh, but it has been so refreshing to bring them to life and share them!
First the specs!
The “Starburst Toy” is created with 24 individual spikes that are sewn together in a cube. This is really exciting to me because the toy is a ball, but it is constructed like a cube! Which makes it the perfect addition to my cube-shaped toy collection!
My very favorite feature is the BOUNCE. Did you know a crochet toy can be a bouncy ball? Because it can!!! I designed this toy to be crochet tightly and stuffed well. With these two features that bounce is on point. The spikes make it unpredictable on the post bounce direction which will keep kids entertained for hours! Adding a little bell into the center makes it a mild jingle which adds to the fun factor too!
Naming this toy was a little tricky. I had so many ideas in my head and I just couldn’t decide which one fit best. As is often the case it came organically from my tester Leah. I told her I was struggling with the name and listed only a few of the names I had floating around in my brain. She told me she thought they were good ideas, but she had been calling it “Starburst” in her head. And just like that the toy named it’s self!
A starburst is a pattern of rays that radiate from a central object like a star!
Isn’t that the perfect name!
Now that the name and design are perfect I’m ready to send it out into the world!
You can find the link for the easy to read PDF that features photo tutorials, written instructions, and schematics to aid in the construction! This pattern is good for the intermediate crocheter or for a beginner level crocheter that is looking to expand their skill set! With nearly 20 photos to go along with written instructions, the pattern is very user friendly and approachable!
The spikes themselves are quick to assemble with easy repeats which makes this great for working on in the evenings while you are watching a show!
These toys are fun for kids of all ages. And I do mean all ages. Because I showed my grown adult sister the toy a couple weeks ago and she squealed and bounced it around just like my little ones do! It is one of those toys you will want to make for everyone in your life with a little or a big who likes to play!
Check out my Ravelry, Etsy, or LoveCrafts to find the PDF and get going on those Christmas gifts! And while you are there see my Intermediate pattern Not a Square and my Beginner friendly pattern Solve for X!
Lastly, I wanted to offer some yarn options! I know yarn weights can be confusing so I thought I would compile a list of yarns you might like to use for this project that are available for sale through LoveCrafts.com
Tell me in the comments who you think would love this. I am seriously thinking about making some for a couple adults I know who are kids at heart. And I kind of wish my Grandpa was still on earth because I think he would have gotten a kick out of it!
