The holidays are on the way – time to make your list, check it twice, and get started on some gift projects! I myself am a little worried about how I will get the few things that I want to do done in time. The wriggling tiny human is making things a bit more difficult.
For me, the key to fast knitting & crocheting is BIG YARN – here are some of my favorites with easy pattern ideas to get you started! Cowls are my “go to” because they are fast, require minimal or no shaping, and don’t need much yarn! They are also very fashionable right now:
(my version of the above cowl will be on the blog soon.)
Classic Elite Chalet is a soft & springy chunky weight chain plied blend of naturally colored baby alpaca & bamboo that will work up fast on US 10 – 11 needles or a J – L hook.
At 98 yards per skein, you’ll need two for a simple Chalet Cowl, or grab 5 different colors for a Coors Cowl!
For something even faster, go for Euro Yarns Blitzen – this textured & tufted 100% wool yarn comes in 110 yard hanks and works up at 1 – 2 stitches per inch on US 15 – 17 needles or a N/P hook.
Blitz out a super fast Blitzen Scarf with just one skein (check here for ideas for a crocheted version) or just grab some US 17 needles, cast on 10 stitches or so, and knit ’til you run out of yarn!
Rowan Big Wool is a classic go-to for fast projects – squishy 87-yard balls of 100% merino on US 17 – 19 needles or a P/Q hook can’t be beat!
Just one ball is enough for a Marian Cowl or a Cozy-Dee Cowl – you’ll see plenty of these getting stitched up in the store for the holidays! Get two balls and crochet a Chunky Wheat Cowl.
Got a little more time? Grab some soft Manos del Uruguay Maxima – generous 218 yard skeins of soft single-ply worsted weight 100% merino make snuggly winter wear!
Make a Bandana Cowl or a Paper Bag Cap with one skein!
The holidays are also a perfect time to break out the sparkly yarn! Classic Elite Ava is a DK weight blend of wool, viscose rayon, and a sparkly metallic strand!
Make a short version of the Honey Cowl with two 128 yard balls (it’s quick on US 8 needles!) or whip up a Basic Baby Hat for a special little someone!
Not ready for knitting in the round? No worries – if you can knit & purl we’ve got you covered! Come in and pick up our Ribbed Scarf Recipe that works with any weight of yarn!
Happy holiday knitting!