Monday, November 26, 2012

Knit a Mini Christmas Stocking


Each year, I plan some type of holiday project that never works out.  This year, I actually got it done in time!

This cute little stocking is a fairly quick knit. One stocking uses less than 100 yards of worsted weight yarn (I used Cascade 220), and you don't even have to use red/green/white.  My test knitter used pink/grey/white and it looks very pretty!

You can use these for decoration, or stuff them with a few small gifts, such as gift cards or maybe some cash.  A plane ticket to a nice quiet beach.... ok that is my wish, but you get the idea!

Don't be afraid if you have never knit in the round, on DPNs, or made a sock.  This is really easy, I promise!  My test knitter has never knit socks, and has only limited DPN experience, and she was able to complete hers in an evening.   That was without the video, using a pre-edited pattern.  She also promises it is very easy!

I have a video of knitting the stocking incase you need help; that along with the written instructions should give you a quick, easy knit that will be done in time for Christmas!

Click on the picture below to get the pattern.  Happy Christmas Knitting!










Friday, November 23, 2012

Knitting With DPNs (Double Pointed Needles)



Just a little video on knitting with double pointed needles, or DPNs.  Not as complicated as you may think.  Although awkward at first, you will find a comfortable way to hold all of those pointy sticks while knitting.   And DPNs aren't just for knitting socks or other small scale items in the round.  I often use mine for cables, and you can use two to work flat.

DPNs come in all different lengths and sizes.  You can get them in bamboo, wood, metal and even acrylic.  Newer knitters may want to use wooden or bamboo needles, as there is less a chance of the yarn slipping off.

Here are some links so you can check out some of the DPNs available, and the video is below.  I tried not to have the points poking right in to the lens, but well, you know...

Clover 
Blue Sky Alpaca 
Brittany 
Knitter's Pride Nova
Pony Pearl 
Kollage Squares
Knitter's Pride Karbonz
Colonial Rosewood