Twined Mice Pattern

Here's my version of the Valerian Mice, I used feltable scrap yarn and size 10 1/2 DPNs. When the scrap yarn was too skinny to use (say fingering size) I used it as a carry along with a worsted or dk or chunky weight.
(M = make; tog = together)
Starting at nose, Cast on 2 stitches, leave long (8 inch or so) tail for partially seaming belly seam.
Row 1: K in front and back of each stitch across
Row 2 (and all even rows): Purl each stitch across
Row 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13: increase by 4 stitches fairly evenly across row, not so important where. Should have 24 stitches. If you want fatter mice continue more rows until you reach 28 or 32 stitches. or for MONSTER mice continue rows until you reach 44 or 52 stitches.

After mouse is of sufficient width (remember you will be felting this sucker), Continue to knit and purl straight across the rows until the mouse seems almost long enough. Remember, there will be a few decrease rows after this point. I went about 5 inches or so for the length from the nose to this point.

Decreasing to the mouse bum:
Decrease Row 1: *k1, k2 tog* across.
Decrease Row 2: *P2 tog* Repeat across
Repeat decrease rows until there are 4 stitches on the needle. End with a purl row. Even if you need to purl straight across 4 stitches on the final row.

Turn work so knit side faces you, and slide the 4 stitches to the right end of the needle to make I-cord. A good demonstration of making I Cord (and many other knitful techniques) can be found HERE on Knittinghelp.com)

After working the 4 stitch I-cord for 2 or 3 inches, decrease by 1 stitch and continue until the tail is at least as long as the body. I like good long tails for teasing the cat with.

To finish the I-Cord, slip one stitch, K2tog, pass slip stitch over your k2tog stitch, cut yarn (leave long enough to thread in the end) and pull yarn through slip stitch.

Use the cast on tail to sew belly together using whatever stitch you like. ONLY sew 3/4s of the length of the belly, and weave in the end. Then wash your mouse and any companions you make with the regular laundry, and send that sucker through the dryer too.

When you get it out, stuff it with your choice of stuffing. When about half full, sprinkle in your choice of Kitty Drug (cat nip, or valerian, or anything else your cat fancies), continue stuffing (you want it good and tight, so the cat can really get a good grip on it with its teeth) and sew up remaining belly with yarn or cotton cord, whatever you have handy.

This has inspired me to design some toys... Watch This Space!