Crochet Nature Motif: Strawberry

The strawberry is worked in continuous rounds. Mark the first st of every round.

Using A, make 2ch.
1st round Miss 1ch, 6sc in next ch.
2nd round [1sc in next sc, 2sc in next sc] 3 times. 9 sts.
3rd round [1sc in each of next 2sc, 2sc in next sc] 3 times. 12 sts.
4th round 1sc in each sc.
5th round [1sc in each of next 3sc, 2sc in next sc] 3 times. 15 sts.
6th round [1sc in each of next 4sc, 2sc in next sc] 3 times. 18 sts.
7th round 1sc in each sc.
8th round [1sc in each of next 5sc, 2sc in next sc] 3 times. 21 sts.
9th round [1sc in each of next 6sc, 2sc in next sc] 3 times. 24 sts.
10th round 1sc in each sc.
11th round [2-st sc decrease] to end of round. 12 sts.
At this point stitch beads on to the RS of the strawberry using two strands of thread and positioning the beads randomly across the surface. Fasten off the thread securely. Stuff the strawberry firmly and continue.
12th round [2-st sc decrease] to end. 6 sts. Fasten off.
Stitch from side to side of the strawberry to close the opening, tightening each stitch before making the next one.

CALYX Using B, make 8ch.
1st row (RS) Miss 1ch, 1sc in each ch to end. 7 sc.
2nd row 1ch, * 1sc in next sc, 5ch, miss 1ch, 1sc in each of next 4ch, ss into sc at base of ch; repeat from * to end. Fasten off.
With RS to inside, roll calyx and secure with a couple of stitches, stitch to top of strawberry.

Directions reproduced with permission from 75 Birds, Butterflies & Little Beasts to Knit and Crochet, St. Martin's Press, 2011

ABBREVIATIONS / REFERENCES

ch = chain RS = right side
sc = single crochet st(s) = stitch(es)