This 3-inch manta ray from Mou Moo Knits is a perfect project if you want to practice shaping while making something small and enjoyable. The design is knit flat in two identical pieces – an upper and lower side. It’s a great project for beginners to get comfortable with increases and decreases. Because it’s so tiny, it works up quickly and is ideal for using up those leftover bits of yarn to create keychains or small desk buddies.
The tutorial walks you through essential techniques like the long-tail cast-on and basic increases and decreases to get those iconic “wing” curves. Once both sides are finished, you’ll use the mattress stitch to join them. This creates a clean, professional seam that hides the edges. To give your manta ray a personality, you’ll add French knot eyes and simple embroidery for the smile and gills. It’s a fast, satisfying knit that results in a professional-looking toy with very little assembly required.
More knitting fun! Free knit monster toy pattern. 3D knitted star.