It's official! Halloween has come and gone and now, as we step into the first week of November, our minds move on to the festivities that lie ahead.
Of course, that means one thing—gifting! We find ourselves asking, who are we gifting to and what will we be knitting? As someone not intimately familiar with the knitting community, I've come to realize that this season is all about knitters creating beautiful, heartfelt pieces for their loved ones. It's a wonderful tradition, though it's worth noting that they seem to be knitting for everyone except each other. But fear not, we'll circle back to that topic in the "My Turn" KAL (Starting in January).
As November unfolds, we find ourselves in the midst of a gift-making marathon. So, without further ado, let's dive right in!
Based on my conversations within the KAL and from assisting knitters in their yarn selections during the Rhinebeck Sheep & Wool Festival, I've noticed two distinct types of knitters emerge:
- The knitters who have the luxury of time to complete a multitude of projects, and
- The knitters who, for various reasons, may only be able to complete one.
Let's be honest, most of us can't dedicate every waking hour to knitting. After all the holiday parties, dinners, reunions, secret santa. etc. This is where smaller, quicker projects shine.
With this in mind, I'm excited to share my carefully curated "outsider" selection of must-knit accessories that are tailor-made for gifting. I'm typically the one on the receiving end of crafted gifts rather than the one wielding the knitting needles. This vantage point gives me valuable insight into what makes a cherished gift, potentially making the process a bit smoother – after all, I have a good idea of what I'd love to receive!
Why put the spotlight on accessories? With the whirlwind of activity in this bustling season, who has the time or energy for an extensive project? Let's reserve our 'knitting-a-sweater' enthusiasm for January, when the gifting frenzy has settled, and we have the luxury of time to craft for our own pleasure.
Shall we beguin?
1. Open and Folds Cabled Scarf
You know, even though I haven't quite nailed those cable stitches in my knitting adventures, there's just something about them. They add a special touch, don't they? Not only do they look fantastic, but they also bring a certain stylishness that's so easy to pull off.
And you know what's really cool about this design? It's got that special something that appeals to just about everyone. It's like the knitting equivalent of a favorite comfy sweater – it just works for everyone!
2. Torrey Pines, Carlsbad Cowl & Hills in Jamul Set
Okay, seriously, this set is absolutely fabulous from the get-go! Whether you decide to gift it all at once or spread the joy over time, it's such a clever idea. And let me tell you, it's not only a quick knit, but it's also super easy to mix and match – not to mention stylish as all get-out!
I mean, come on, we all have those days in winter when we just want to be cozy without the hassle of figuring out what goes with what. With this set, all you have to do is wrap it around, and you're good to go, feeling warm and looking fantastic!
Suggested yarn: Kent Worsted, Targhee Tango Worsted, Better Breakfast Worsted, Festivus 8.0 Worsted
3. Bottoms Up Booties
Let's kick things off by stating the obvious: socks are a staple in everyone's wardrobe, especially during the winter months. And if you're anything like me, working remotely, there's truly nothing cozier than settling in for a day of work in warm comfort. It's like the unofficial uniform of the modern-day remote worker – a snug, at-home ensemble paired with a fabulous set of socks. Trust me, you can't go wrong with this combo.
Now, let me add that if those socks happen to feature colorwork, even better! It adds a whole new level of creativity and uniqueness to the mix. There's something truly special about donning a pair of socks that's not only warm and comfy, but also a work of art.
Suggested Yarns: Kent Worsted, Confection Worsted, Better Breakfast Worsted, Targhee Tango Worsted, Festivus 8.0 Worsted
4. St Peter Port Stocking Kit
You didn't think I'd forget about stockings, did you? No need for a lengthy explanation here – it's pretty self-explanatory. What I will say is that while a thoughtful gift could be to knit one for someone, perhaps an even more special gesture is to teach them how to knit it. It's a breeze to work up, it's quick, and makes for a delightful festive activity you can share with your loved ones. Picture this: cookies in the oven, a pot of hot chocolate, a festive movie, and everyone in your circle happily knitting their own stocking.
And guess what? The St Peter Port Stocking is available as a kit in the Confection Worsted, White Chocolate.
Suggested yarn: Confection Worsted, Targhee Tango Worsted, Kent Worsted, Better Breakfast Worsted Festivus 8.0 Worsted
5. Totally Autumn Throw or Wrap
Now, this one isn't your typical small project—size-wise it's BIG but so quick to knit with chubby yarn and needles that the investment is the same as a regular scarf! I thought I'd include it just in case you were in the mood for gifting something with real WOW! factor. Plus, it doubles as a stylish home decor piece, which is always a win-win in my book. Personally, I'm absolutely smitten with the intricate motifs on this design.
Suggested yarn: Kent Worsted, Confection Worsted, Better Breakfast Worsted, Targhee Tango Worsted, Festivus 8.0 Worsted
6. Sky Cap
Let's face it, it's practically a rite of passage for knitters to create something special for a newborn, baby, or even a toddler. And can we all just take a moment to imagine how utterly adorable they would look in a charming little cap like this? This design offers sizes for newborns, 3, 9, 18 months, 2T, 4T, and even adult sizes in small and large—so a mommy and me set is not out of the question! There's even a matching scarf – Sky Ladder
Believe it or not, depending on the size you choose to make, you might even be able to whip up more than one cap from a single skein!
7.Eye of the Needle Set
I've always been a firm believer that cables are timeless classics. When I came across this set, it immediately captured my attention. Honestly, if it weren't a knitting pattern, I might have snagged it for myself. It's that kind of go-to set that, when crafted in just the right shades, becomes a versatile accessories for any outfit. And as the holiday festivities wind down, and the typical reds, blues, and greens take a backseat, a beautifully neutral tone like this set is the perfect addition to your wardrobe, destined to become a staple.
Suggested yarn: Kent Aran, Kent Worsted, Confection Worsted, Better Breakfast Worsted, Targhee Tango Worsted, Festivus 8.0 Worsted
8. Horn of Plenty Scarf or Cowl
Wear it unfolded for an infinity style, wrap it around and you'll have a cowl that's as warm as it is stylish! Now, let me talk about this delightful design. It boasts a captivating colorwork pattern that might seem a bit tricky at first, but trust me, you'll be a pro once you finish a few rows. And those motifs? They're timeless classics that'll never go out of style! I can totally see myself rocking this on those days when I want to add a touch of elegance to my outfit, whether it's a dinner out, a movie night, or just wanting to feel a little extra special.
Suggested Yarn Color A (solid):
Stone Soup DK, Better Breakfast DK, Kent DK, Targhee Tango Sport, Finn Dandy 3-ply Sport, Blues Singer DK
Suggested Yarn Color B (patterned):
Feederbrook Farm Entropy DK, Blues Singer DK, Stone Soup DK
9. Grey Poppies Mosaic Neckwarmer
At this year's Rhinebeck Sheep & Wool Festival 2023, I took a break to explore and stumbled upon the Feederbrook Farm Entropy booth. I have to say, among all the colored yarn offerings, this one completely captivated me. As some of you may know, we carry Feederbrook in our collection, and it's actually the only colored yarn we feature, aside from our occasional kits.
What's intriguing about this yarn is how it transforms from the skein to the knitted fabric, revealing a gorgeous shift of shades that complements our own yarn beautifully. This synergy allows us to create designs that harmonize perfectly with each other. Not to mention, the Farm Entropy materials align seamlessly with our yarn, resulting in stunning and truly one-of-a-kind creations.
Suggested yarn:
Color A (solid): Finn Dandy 3-ply Sport, Better Breakfast Fingering, Modern Deco Sport, Stone Soup Fingering
Color B (gradient): Feederbrook Farm Entropy DK
10. Tall Tops Warmers
You know what's great about these? You can rock them as leg warmers or as arm warmers – versatile, right? I vividly recall last winter, practically living in my leg warmers every time I stepped out. In fact, I'm sporting a pair as I write this post! But let's get back on topic. These pieces were a game-changer for me. I'd wear them everywhere, even if they were tucked beneath my jeans, hidden from view. They just kept me wonderfully cozy.
Now, here's the thing: neutral tones are the way to go with these. They're everyday accessories, meant to not only keep you warm but also make a statement. Trust me, there's nothing visually pleasing about a mishmash of clashing shades in your ensemble. Let's keep it harmonious and stylish!
Suggested Yarns: Finn Dandy 3-ply or 2-ply Sport, Targhee Tango Sport, Modern Deco Sport, Shetlandia Sport, Jacob’s Dream Sport, Seasons Fingering, The G.O.A.T. Fingering, Festivus 8.0 Fingering
