How far have you ventured into the world of knitting and crocheting? Did you know that there's so much you can make in addition to all the scarves, hats, and shawls your heart desires? Here are ideas for just four types of toys and household items you can make using your favorite yarn and patterns from Yarnspirations.com.

Crocheted Velvet Bear

A stuffed teddy bear is such an iconic and lovable toy. They come with a host of memories and can remind us of family members and other loved ones. Just go online for free crochet patterns you will love including one for your very own velvet crochet bear.

A handmade bear is sentimental and an excellent toy, so why not crochet your own velvet bear to give to someone special? Use Bernat's velvet yarn in pink for a cuddly bear that feels soft and puts a smile on the face of your loved one. With a soft yet bulky yarn, this bear will last through plenty of snuggles and can be gifted during any time of year.

Sock Monkey

The sock monkey has been around for a long, long time. You probably immediately think of the grey and white monkey, known as the "Original Rockford Heel" monkey. It originates from the Nelson Knitting Mills in Illinois all the way back in 1890. In the United States in the 1920s, mothers began making these stuffed animals out of socks and they've been in toy chests and children's arms ever since.

You can knit or crochet your own sock monkey with Patons wool. With an easy-to-follow knit or crochet pattern, it's possible to create a monkey whose colors stick to the nostalgic grey and white either for yourself or as a gift. You could also put a spin on this classic with any other color scheme. It's up to you.

Stuffed Owl Cushion

Owl décor is on trend right now. Why not jump on the trend by creating an adorable, easy-to-knit owl cushion, using Caron Simply Soft yarn, that adds comfort and style to any space. You can use any two colors you desire for the body of the owl depending on your goal for the item. Do you want it to be bright and colorful for a child's room? Maybe you'd prefer realistic browns, grays, or whites for a natural look to complement your favorite reading spot.  

The project is essentially a rounded cushion with a few extra stitches around the ears that replicate the look of the great horned owl. This project is beginner friendly and is well-suited to any embellishments or flourishes you'd like to add. They would make a great gift for a child's bedroom, a young adult's dorm room, or for someone to decorate their cabin.

Doggie Draft Dodger

Draft dodgers come in especially handy during the winter months when you're trying out all sorts of things to keep your house as warm as you can. You can find draft dodgers at hardware stores or even home décor stores, but it's entirely possible to make one yourself. The knit doggie draft dodger takes an unglamorous, yet practical household item, the draft dodger, and puts a fun and cute spin on it.