This pattern has four adaptations so that you can make different snake species, as well as two basic patterns for a wiggly snake and a spiral snake. The four species are: the coral snake, the copperhead snake, the Indian cobra and the eastern diamondback rattlesnake.

These toys aren’t intended for very young children (who would probably prefer a bigger, cuddlier version!) but they are safe as long as you knit them up securely. If you are looking for a simpler snake toy, you might want to look at the separate Snoo’s Knits pattern for the basic snakes only.

You will need:
• Knitting needles – I used UK size 11 (3.0mm, US size 2.5)
• For the forked tongue, I used thinner needles, UK size 14 (2.0mm, US size 0)
• Tapestry needle
• Tiny little bit of black or dark brown wool to stitch the eyes
• Small amount of stuffing
• Small amounts of wool in the colours given below. I used Double Knit (8-6 ply, “light worsted”.) Tension square: 10cm x 10cm square is 24 stitches across and 32 rows.

Basic Snakes: colour of your choice, plus pink for tongue

Coral Snake: crimson, black, bright yellow, burgundy

Copperhead Snake: copper, beige, brick-red

Indian Cobra: honey-beige, dark brown, cream, black

Diamondback Rattlesnake: greeny-beige, dark brown, cream, black

Stitches used: kfb, pfb, k2tog, p2tog, sl1p