Fox and Hen Reversible Knitted Toy

This clever knitted toy transforms from fox to hen for hours of imaginative play.

By Susan B. Anderson
Updated on November 26, 2021
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by Liz Banfield and Mariko Jesse

Reversible knitted toys are the stars of Topsy-Turvy Inside-Out Knit Toys (Artisan Books, 2013) by Susan B. Anderson. Simple knitting patterns for toys that transform, such as an egg that hatches into an alligator, are followed by more complex projects like a dog in a doghouse and reversible petticoat dolls. Anderson’s clear instructions are accompanied by tutorials for advanced techniques used to finish the toys, and beautiful full-color photographs accompany each project. The following project makes a reversible fox and hen.


The Fox & the Hen

Old folk tales and fables often pair two characters in their titles–think, for instance, of the tortoise and the hare. Another duo who have become linked in our minds are the fox and the hen (maybe the pairing is reinforced by stories of foxes raiding chicken coops on farms around the world). Chickens and foxes always have a great following, from farmers to collectors and, of course, children of any age.

One of my favorite things is to design a good knit chicken, as evidenced by the fact that each of my earlier books includes a chicken in one form or another. This reversible not only continues that tradition but is also a simple and fun project. It’s mainly knit in one piece–except for a couple of foxy parts. The tweedy yarn (by Shelter) gives the toy a vintage look that works well for these fable-based characters. The gift-giving possibilities are endless with this one!

Finished Measurements

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