Heywood the Tapir Knitting Pattern

Tapirs are native to Central and South America and Asia. There are four different types of tapirs, and Malayan tapirs (Heywood’s variety) are the largest. They can grow up to 700 pounds! Tapirs use their trunk-like snouts to pick up fruits and leaves, which they love to eat!

Heywood is named after Heywood R. Floyd, the scientist sent to the moon in the sci-fi classic 2001: A Space Odyssey. Tapirs play an important role in the beginning of the film, helping the apes to discover tools. At least, that’s what Heywood’s mom told him. When he grows up, he wants to star in movies too!

Heywood is worked primarily in the round. Because vertical stripes are difficult to achieve in the round, his back and tummy are knit flat then joined together. Suitable for intermediate knitters and above.

This is a PDF instant digital download with both US Letter and A4 paper options for printing.

Difficulty
Intermediate

Skills and Techniques

• Working in the round in small circumferences
• I-cord
• Short row shaping

Yarn
Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice (170 yds/155 m per 100 g skein) or another worsted weight yarn

• MC Charcoal Grey; 80 yards/73.1 meters (partial skein)
• CC Beige; 40 yards/36.6 meters (partial skein)

Needles
These sizes are recommended. Always knit a test swatch and choose a needle size that will yield the
correct gauge.

• 3.75 mm/US 5 needles for working small circumferences in the round and I-cord: double pointed needles, 1 long circular or 2 short circulars
• 3.75 mm/US 5 double pointed needles for working I-cord
• 3.75 mm/US 5 needles for working flat - straight or circular as you prefer

Notions

• Stitch markers – removable
• Stitch holder
• Pins
• Two 8mm animal safety eyes in black
• Polyester fiber fill

Finished Size
One size

• Height: 6 inches/15.25 cm
• Length: 8 inches/20.25 cm from nose to rear