Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Amelia's Options Baby Hats

Amelia's Options Baby Hats
These hats are just simple hats with optional embellishments. Instructions are written for knitting flat, to knit in the round, simply join after co and knit every round. At the end I was running out of yarn since I only had one skein, so these are a little shorter than what the pattern calls for.
Beanie with Pom-Pom
Supplies:
US #10.5 single point needles for knitting flat,
or US #10.5 double point needles if knitting
in the round
1 skein Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick (1 skein makes one hat with enough left over for tassels or pom-poms)
Optional skein of contrasting yarn for pom-poms/tassels and edging (a soft, fuzzy yarn would be too cute!)
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle
Flat Top Hat with Pom-Poms
Gauge:
6 sts X 9 rows = 2" in stockinette
Sizes:
Newborn (3-12 months, 1-3 years, 3 years & up)

Directions:

Beanie

Cast on 48 (54, 60, 66)
Beanie with Pom-Pom
and Crochet Edge
Begin knitting in stockinette
(knit right side row, purl wrong side row)
*To keep brim from curling, purl the first rs row
then continue in stockinette

Continue knitting until piece measures 5" (6" for larger sizes) ending on a ws row

Begin Decreases:
1 - (rs) - *K4, K2tog* repeat around
2, 4, 6, 8 - (ws) - Purl all sts
3 - *K3, K2tog*
5 - *K2, K2tog*
7 - *K1, K2tog*
9 - *K2tog*
10 *K2tog*
Flat Top Hat with Pom-Poms
and Crochet Edge
Cut yarn, leaving enough of a tail to seam
side of hat, and thread through remaining sts,
pull tight and seam side.


Flat Top Hat

Cast on 48 (54, 60, 66)

Begin knitting in stockinette
(knit right side row, purl wrong side row)
*To keep brim from curling, purl the first rs row
then continue in stockinette

Flat Top Hat with Tassels
Continue knitting until piece measures 7" (8" for larger sizes) ending on a ws row

Bind off all stitches, fold work in half and seam top
and side seams.

Add optional pom-pom/tassels, and crochet edge.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for knitting basics, and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

(I couldn't get her face in the last pic!
She was too busy shaking her head
to make the tassels go 'round!)

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Beer Huggie

Free Pattern: Beer Huggie
Having a cold beer in your hand on a summer evening is a wonderful thing. The only problem is, the bottle sweats and your fingers get too cold. There's a lot of beer huggie patterns out there, but I wanted something that did not have to be seamed, and had a bottom. This huggie is knit completely in the round on dpn's, and has a bottom so if your huggie stretches, the bottle won't slip!

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles
small amount worsted weight yarn (I used Galway Paint color #801)
Stitch Marker (optional)
Yarn Needle

Finished Measurements:
Will fit standard beer bottles, and will stretch to fit cans as well (does not fit back on bottles as well after stretching to fit a can).

Gauge:
5 sts X 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
Using long tail cast-on, co 32 stitches, and join to begin knitting in the round (place your stitch marker after the first stitch on dpn or just check where your tail is to note beginning of round).

Work 4 rounds k2, p2 ribbing.
Begin knitting all stitches, and continue until work measures about 4" from CO edge.
Work 4 more rounds k2, p2 ribbing.
Purl 1 round and begin decreases for bottom.
Decreases:
1 - *k2, k2tog* repeat between *'s around
2 - k
3 - *k1, k2tog*
4 - k
5 - *k2tog*
Cut yarn leaving a 6" tail and using yarn needle thread yarn through remaining stitches and pull tight. Weave in ends and enjoy a cold one!
Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for casting on and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Ribbed Beanie

Free Pattern: Ribbed Beanie
This hat is super simple, and super comfy. It stretches to fit almost anyone from 2 years old to adults. Quinn (my mannequin head) has about a 23" head, but the ribbing allows the hat to spring back to shape so it even fits my 3 year old son. This hat is a family staple, and I have made many for my son and husband, they love them!

Supplies:
US # 10.5 circular needle (16" length) and double point needles
1 skein Bernat Camouflage in Desert Sand
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
5 sts X 5 rows = 1" in k1, p1 rib

Directions:
Using circular needle and long-tail cast on CO 72 stitches. Place marker and join in the round.

Begin working k1, p1 ribbing (the first round is a little tight, keep working your stitches around and it will be fine).

Work k1, p1 ribbing for 5 to 5 1/2 inches. Begin decreases.

Decrease rounds:

** repeat between *'s for entire round

Round 1: *k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p2tog, k2tog, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k2tog, p2tog*

Round2: k

Round 3: *k1, p1, k1, p1, k2tog, p2tog*

Round 4: k

Round 5: *k1, p1, k1, p2tog, k2tog, p1, k1, p1, k2tog, p2tog*

Round 6: k

Round 7: *k1, p2tog, k2tog, p1, k2tog, p2tog*

Round 8: k

Round 9: *k2tog, p2tog* to last 2 stitches, k2tog

Cut yarn leaving 6" tail, thread through remaining stitches and pull tight. Weave in ends and enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Wine Glass Markers

Free Pattern: Wine Glass Markers
A great way to tell which glass is yours at dinner parties. Also works great on coffee mugs for that after dinner cup 'o joe. They are very quick to knit, and use only a few yards of yarn each. I used cut corks for my buttons, but you can use beads, buttons, or anything you wish to personalize your set.

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles
Scraps of worsted weight yarn (8 pieces - about 2-3 yards in length)
2 corks (cut into quarters - 8 pieces) or 8 beads or buttons
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
Not too important, but make one to be sure your cork, button, bead fits before making the rest. If your hole is too small, work 1-2 more rows i-cord, if too big, work 1-2 fewer rows.

Directions:
CO 3 stitches using knitted cast on. Work 11 rows I-cord.

Pick up 2 stitches from cast on edge (5 stitches on needle).

Knit 11 more rows I-cord.

Bind off row: k2tog, k1, bo 1st stitch, k2tog, pass k2tog st over middle stitch to bind off.

Cut yarn leaving enough to attach cork (bead, button) and thread through center stitch.

Attach cork (bead, button) and weave in ends.

Celebrate with a glass of wine or a cup 'o joe! Enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast-on methods, and working I-cord.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Simple Kid's Beanie

Free Pattern: Simple Kid's Beanie
I saw this yarn, and I thought it was so perfect for my little granddaughter (my step-son's baby). She's just precious anyway, but I love making stuff for her. Now if I could just get my toy making skills honed.
This hat will fit any kid from 6 months old, to about 3 years old. Just make it a little longer if it's for a kid over 2 years old.
Bernat has lots of camo colors for girls and boys.

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles (it's a little too small for circs)
1 skein Bernat Camouflage in Pink (I used less than half a skein)
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
4 sts X 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
CO 72 stitches using long tail cast-on. I cast on directly to the dpn's, but it may be easier for some to cast-on to a straight needle, and then slip the stitches to dpn's. Join to begin knitting in the round. (Place your marker after the first stitch so it doesn't slip off the needle.)

Rounds 1 -6 - work k2, p2 ribbing

Begin working stockinette stitch (knit all stitches). Work stockinette until hat measures about 4 1/2" (5 to 5 1/2" for 2 years plus).

Begin decreases:

* * repeat between *'s for entire round

Round 1 - *k6, k2tog*
Round 2 - k
Round 3 - *k5, k2tog*
Round 4 - k
Round 5 - *k4, k2tog*
Round 6 - k
Round 7 - *k3, k2tog*
Round 8 - k
Round 9 - *k2, k2tog*
Round 10 - k
Round 11 - *k1, k2tog*
Round 12 - k
Round 12 - *k2tog*

Cut yarn and thread through remaining stitches, pull tight. Weave in ends and enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and working in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Book Jacket

Free Pattern: Book Jacket
This book jacket is the result of boredom. I wanted something simple and quick to knit (I'm all about instant gratification!). It looks good, and my mother-in-law liked it so much, I gave it to her. The only thing I would do different on the next one is stockinette instead of seed stitch on the inside flaps. It's not too thick, but it leave a bit of a gap when the book is closed.



Supplies:
US #8 needles ( I used a 16" circ. instead of straight needles for the added length)
1 skein Red Heart Carefree Cotton in Kiwi (178 yrds or 100 grams)
Stitch Markers (Optional)
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
5 sts X 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
CO 79 sts using cable cast on (leave at least a 6-7" tail for seaming, one less end to weave in).

Row 1 - (k1, p1) 5X, place marker, (k3, p1) 14X, k3, place marker, (p1, k1) 5X

Row 2 - (k1, p1) 5X, slip marker, (p3, k1) 14X, p3, slip marker, (p1, k1) 5X

*to work stockinette stitch for the inside flap, knit the first and last 10 of row 1, and purl on row 2.

Bind off in pattern row 1.

Finishing:
Pick which side you want to be the outside and fold flaps to inside and sew each end using whip stitch. Weave in your ends and enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and seaming stitches.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Wrist Warmers

Free Pattern: Wrist Warmers
These are great for cool weather. They keep your hands warm, and your fingers free. I hate gloves!!! There is minimal shaping leading up to the thumb hole, and since they are worked in the round, there is no seaming.

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles
1 skein each of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Tan, Mist, and Cloud
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
10.5 sts X 12 rows = 2"

Size:
Fits a woman's size 7" wrist (9" at widest point) but will stretch to about 8" (10")

Directions:
Cast on 37 sts using long tail cast on and Tan. Place marker, and join to begin working in the round.

Rounds 1 - 20: Knit all sts

Round 21: k1 f&b, k to last st, k1 f&b

Round 22: k all sts

Rounds 23 - 30: repeat rounds 21 & 22

Round 31: Bind off 10 sts, k to end

Round 32: switch colors to Mist, k to end

At this point you will cast on 5 sts to create other half of thumb hole. I used a backwards cable cast on, the tutorial can be found here.

Round 33: slip 5 cast on sts to needle 1 (do not knit them yet, they will be the beginning of the next round) continue knitting to end

Rounds 34 & 35: k

Do not cut Mist yet!

Round 36: switch to Cloud, k around

Round 37: switch back to Mist, k around

Rounds 38 - 45: repeat rounds 36 & 37

Rounds 46 - 48: k with Mist

Bind off all sts. Weave in ends & enjoy!

Tips:

Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods, and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Ear Warmers - Versions 1 & 2


Free Pattern: Ear Warmers - V. 1 & 2

Yes, it's another chunky pattern (I have a lot of stash I'm trying to use up). These ear warmers/headbands are inspired by Knitty's Calorimetry pattern, which can be found here. I love the look, but didn't like the button, plus the one I did came out way to wide for my taste. So these are worked in the round with quick chunky yarn. V. 1 is is worked in K1, P1 rib, and is thinner than V. 2, which is worked in broken rib. You can see the difference in the picture to the right. Both fit around the head about the same. The picture below is of V. 2.

Supplies:
US #8 circular needles - 16" length
1 skein Bernat Softee Chunky in Natural Earth (this is enough for both versions with some left over)
11 stitch markers (make sure one is a different color than the others)

Finished Measurements:
Both will fit a 20" to 24" head
V. 1 is is 3.75" wide, V. 2 is 4.75" wide

Gauge:
16 sts X 24 rows = 4" worked in stockinette

Abbreviations:
pm = place marker
rm = remove marker
sl = slip stitch purl wise
wyib = with yarn held in back
wyif = with yarn held in front

V.1 Directions:
Cast on 80 stitches using long tail cast on, place main (different color) marker and join in the round. Work 2 rows of k1, p1 ribbing.

3 - *k1, p1* to last 6 sts, pm, turn
4 - sl 1 wyib, p1, *k1, p1* to last 6 sts, pm, turn
5 - sl 1 wyib, p1, *k1, p1* to 6 sts before first marker, pm, turn
6 - 10 - repeat row 5, you will have 1 main marker, and 8 contrast markers in place

*When working back over slipped sts, be sure to knit the 2 sts before and after the gap snugly to reduce the size of the hole.

11 - sl 1 wyib, p1, *k1, p1* to marker, rm, work to 2 sts before next marker, turn
12 - sl 1 wyif, p1, *k1, p1* to marker, rm, work to 2 sts before next marker, turn
13 - 18 - repeat rows 11 & 12 3 more times until all contrast markers are removed, working last 2 rows until 2 sts before main marker

Do not turn work, begin working k1, p1, ribbing in the round. Work 2 rows ribbing, and bind off. Weave in ends and enjoy!

V. 2 Directions:
Cast on 80 stitches using cable cast on, work one round knitting all sts, place main color marker, and join to begin knitting in the round.

2 - *k1, p1* to end
3 - k
4 - *k1, p1* to end

5 - k to last 6 sts, pm, turn
6 - sl 1 wyif, p1, *k1, p1* to 6 sts before marker, pm, turn
7 - sl1 wyib, knit to 6 sts before marker, pm, turn
8 - sl1 wyif, p1, *k1, p1* to 6 sts before marker, pm, turn
9 - 14 - repeat rows 7 & 8 3 more times, you will have 1 main marker and 10 contrast markers in place

15 - sl1 wyib, k to marker, rm, k to 2 sts before next marker, turn
16 - sl 1 wyif, p1, *k1, p1* to marker, rm, *k1, p1* to 2 sts before next marker, turn
17 - 24 - repeat rows 15 & 16 4 more times until all contrast markers are removed, working last 2 rows until 2 sts before main marker

Do not turn work, begin working in the round again, knitting all sts on row 25.
26 - *k1, p1* to end
27 - k
28 - *k1, p1* to end

Bind off in pattern, weave in ends, and enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and working in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Pattern Block Afghan

Free Pattern: Pattern Block Afghan
I wanted to do something a little different than just seed stitch, and since I don't like working with several different yarns, and I hate seaming, this is what I came up with. Its just very simple blocks of stockinette and seed stitch worked in a variegated yarn. I used a chunky yarn, because of course, I love fast and easy. You can't tell in the picture, but the way the block of pattern sit beside each other, it sort of looks woven. I wasn't trying to do that, but it looks cool.

Supplies:
US #15 circular needles (at least 29" in length)
10 (11*) skeins Bernat Softee Chunky in Harmony (134 yrds or 80 grams per skein)
*note - I only had a few feet left over from the 10th skein. If you join your yarn by color so it looks continuous, an extra skein would be useful. If you don't use the extra skein, see my pattern for Chunky Ankle Socks, here, it uses the same kind of yarn.
6 stitch markers or pieces of contrasting yarn

Finished Measurements:
Approx. 4' X 5' 8"

Gauge:
10.25 sts X 14 rows = 4"

Directions:
Cast on 123 stitches using cable cast on.
Work 7 rows seed stitch border (*k1, p1* repeat to last stitch, k1) - on 7th row, work 4 sts, place marker, *work 23 sts, place marker* repeat between *'s 4 more times, work last 4 sts
Begin pattern rows.

For rows 8-39, 72-103, 136-167, & 200-231:

sm = slip marker

1 - (rs) k1, p1, k1, p1, sm, k23, sm, *p1, k1* 11 times, p1, sm, k23, sm, *p1, k1* 11 times, p1, sm, k23, sm, p1, k1, p1, k1
2 - (ws) k1, p1, k1, p1, sm, p23, sm, *p1, k1* 11 times, p1, sm, p23, sm, *p1, k1* 11 times, p1, sm, p23, sm, p1, k1, p1, k1

Repeat these 2 rows 15 more times (total of 16 repeats)

For rows 40-71, 104-135, & 168-199

1 - (rs) k1, p1, k1, p1, sm, *k1, p1* 11 times, k1, sm, k23, sm, *k1, p1* 11 times, k1, sm, k23, sm, *k1, p1* 11 times, k1, sm, p1, k1, p1, k1
2 - (ws) k1, p1, k1, p1, sm, *k1, p1* 11 times, k1, sm, p23, sm, *k1, p1* 11 times, k1, sm, p23, sm, *k1, p1* 11 times, k1, sm, p1, k1, p1, k1

Repeat these 2 rows 15 more times (total of 16 repeats)

Rows 232 - 238 - work seed stitch border (*k1, p1* repeat to last st, k1)

Bind off in pattern, weave in ends & enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Monday, February 4, 2008

Puppy's Dumbell Toy


Free Pattern: Puppy's Dumbell Toy
I've wanted an English Bulldog for years, and my husband finally found the perfect one! Her name is Sunny and she's the sweetest little puppy you could ask for, plus she gets along with all of the family and their pets. What more could you ask for? Well, I might ask that she not try to eat my yarn. It seems Sunny has a yarn fetish. I have a basket of all my leftover yarn balls that she finds irresistable. So, I guess I'll have to start making dog toys. This one is felted so little puppy teeth don't get caught in the stitches and pull it apart.

Supplies:
US #8 double point needles
Small amount of 100% wool (I used Galway Paint color #801)
This would be a great project to use up leftovers, add stripes to use those little bits
Row Counter
Yarn Needle
Stitch Marker

Gauge:
Not too important

Directions:
Cast on 9 stitches (3 sts on each needle) and join to begin knitting in the round. Knit one base round.

Round 1: Knit
Round 2: K f&b (6 sts on each needle)
Rounds 3 & 4: Knit
Round 5: K1, k f&b (9 sts on each needle)
Rounds 6 & 7: Knit
Round 8: K2, k f&b (12 sts on each needle)
Rounds 9 - 18: Knit
Round 19: K1, k2tog (8 sts on each needle)
Rounds 20 - 49: Knit
Round 50: K1, k f&b (12 sts on each needle)
Rounds 51 - 60: Knit
Round 61: K2, k2tog (9 sts on each needle)
Rounds 62 & 63: Knit
Round 64: K1, k2tog (6 sts on each needle)
Rounds 65& 66: Knit
Round 67: K2tog
Round 68: Knit

Stuff lightly (felting will shrink toy so don't stuff too tight). Cut yarn and thread through remaining stitches, pull tight and weave in ends. Felt. You can felt in the washing machine, but it's not too good for shaping. I put mine through one wash cycle, and finished felting by hand to shape. Dry, and have fun with your best friend!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Chunky Ankle Socks


Free Pattern: Chunky Ankle Socks
This is my first try at designing socks, and they turned out good (after my second try, the first one was shaped a little funny). These socks are knit with chunky yarn because; 1. I wanted instant gratification, 2. they're really warm, and 3. I loved the colors in this yarn. They can easily be made longer or shorter by adding or subtracting rounds from the leg or foot.

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles
1 skein Bernat Softee Chunky in Nature's Way (134 yrds or 80g per skein)
You might want to buy 2 if you're going to make tall socks
Row Counter
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
16.5 sts X 22 rows = 4"

Size:
Fits a woman's size 7 foot

Directions:
Cast on 32 sts using cable cast on (this makes a neater edge, but make sure it's a little loose). Work 1 row in k1, p1 ribbing. Join to work in the round, and work 5 more rows k1, p1 ribbing. Switch to stockinette and work 5 rounds. Begin heel.

Rearrange stitches on needles as follows: needle 1 - 16 sts, needle 2 & 3 - 8 sts each. Heel will be worked across needle 1, needles 2 & 3 are saved for later.

Row 1 - Sl 1, k across
Row 2 - Sl 1, p across

Repeat these 2 rows for a total of 9 rows ending with row 1. Turn Heel

Row 1 - sl 1, p to last 3 sts, p2tog tbl (through the back loop), p1, turn
Row 2 - sl 1, k to last 4 sts, k2tog, k1, turn
Row 3 - sl 1, p to last 5 sts, p2tog tbl, p1, turn
Row 4 - sl 1, k to last 6 sts, k2tog, k1, turn
Row 5 - sl 1, p to last 6 sts, p2tog tbl, p1, turn
Row 6 - sl 1, k1, k2tog, k to end

Pick up 7 sts along the side of the heel, k across needles 2 & 3 (placing them on one needle as you go), pick up 7 sts across the other side of the heel and separate heel sts equally on the needles w/ the heel sts. You should have (beginning at bottom of the heel ) 12 sts on needle 1, 16 sts on needle 2, and 12 sts on needle 3.

Work one round even and begin decreases for foot.

Round 1 - (needle 1) k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1
(needle 2) k across
(needle 3) k1, ssk, k to end
Round 2 - k all sts

Repeat rounds 1 & 2 until you have 32 sts again. Rearrange sts evenly and k all sts until work measures from the back of your of heel to base of your big toe. Use row counter to keep track of your rows so when you make the second sock, they will be the same length. Write you rows down here:_____.

Rearrange sts one more time with 8 sts on needle 1, 16 sts on needle 2, and 8 sts on needle 3. Begin decreases for toe.

Round 1 - (needle 1) k to last 3 sts, ssk, k1
(needle 2) k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, ssk, k1
(needle 3) k1, k2tog, k to end
Round 2 - k

Repeat rounds 1 & 2 until you have 16 sts left. K2tog around, 8 sts left. Cut yarn and thread through remaining sts and pull snug (not too tight or you'll have a bunch at your toe, and not too loose or you'll have a hole). Weave in ends.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great tips for cast on methods and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Kyla's Rose Hat


Kyla's Rose Hat

My step-granddaughter (and no I'm really not old enough to be a Grandma at 30) was born recently, and with the weather cool I wanted to make her a nice soft cap to keep her little head warm. I also wanted to try this stitch I found, which turned out to be really cute! I made it a little long so it can be work brim down on really cold days or up on not so cold days.

Supplies:
US #8 double point needles
1 skein Bernat Natural Blend Cashmere in Petal
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Stitch Pattern:
Rose Stitch adapted from "The Harmony Guides: 450 Knitting Stitches"
k1b = knit 1 through the back
* * = repeat between *'s for entire round

Row 1 - *k1, k1b*
Row 2 - *p1, k1*
Row 3 - *k1b, k1*
Row 4 - *k1, p1*

Gauge:
4 1/2 sts X 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
Cast on 56 stiches using knitted cast on. Place marker and join to begin working in the round. Work k2, p2 ribbing for 1 1/2". Begin rose stitch and work in pattern until hat measures 4 1/2 to 5" from edge. Begin decreases.

Decrease Rounds:
1 - *(p1, k1) 5 times, p2tog, k2tog*
2 - *k1b, k1*
3 - *(k1, p1) 4 times, k2tog, p2tog*
4 - *k1, k1b*
5 - *(p1, k1) 3 times, p2tog, k2tog*
6 - *k1b, k1*
7 - *(k1, p1) 2 times, k2tog, p2tog*
8 - *k1, k1b*
9 - *p1, k1, p2tog, k2tog*
10 - *k1b, k1*
11 - *p2tog, k2tog* to last 2 sts, p2tog

Cut yarn and thread through remaining stitches, pull tight. Weave in ends and enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and working in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Moss Stitch Pillow Cover


Free Pattern: Moss Stitch Pillow Cover
This pillow cover is a match to the "Moss Stitch Afghan" I made, the pattern can be found here.

Supplies:
US #10 needles (long straight needle or circular)
Size I crochet hook
2 skeins Red Heart worsted weight yarn in Aran Fleck (260 yrds or 141 grams per skein)
1 skein Red Heart worsted weight yarn in Black (260 yrds or 141 grams per skein)
1 - 16" X 16" pillow
5 large buttons
Sewing needle and matching thread
Yarn Needle
Safety pins

Finished Measurements:
Approx. 16" wide X 36" long to fit 16" X 16" pillow

Stitch Pattern:
Multiple of 2
Row 1 & 2: *K1, P1* repeat between *'s across
Row 3 & 4: *P1, K1* repeat between *'s across

Directions:
Cast on 64 stitches using aran fleck yarn and long tail cast on (edges will be hidden by crochet edge in finishing). Knit in stitch pattern until piece measures 34" from cast on edge ending with row 4. Work rows for button holes.

1 - in pattern stitch, k/p 6 stitches, bo 5 stitches, k/p 7, bo 5, k/p 7, bo 5, k/p 7, bo 5, k/p 7, bo 5 , k/p 5
2 - in stitch pattern k/p 5, co 5, k/p 7, co 5, k/p 7, co 5, k/p 7, co 5, k/p7, co 5, k/p 6

Continue working in stitch pattern for 2 more inches, bind off and weave in ends.

Finishing:
Use crochet hook and black yarn to single crochet edge around entire piece, cut yarn. Wrap piece around pillow inside-out and position for sewing seams, use safety pins (or split stitch markers) to hold piece together and remove pillow. Using black yarn and yarn needle sew side edges together,weave in ends and turn right-side-out and insert pillow. Using sewing needle and thread sew buttons in place securely (I stretched mine down a bit to make a mock scalloped edge). Enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and crochet stitches.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Saturday, December 22, 2007

Swirled Wine Bottle Cozy

Free Pattern: Swirled Wine Bottle Cozy

This is the last of my Christmas cozies. I put a little more effort into this one since it's for my big sister. I love the colors in this yarn, and the swirls add a little pop to it.

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles
1 skein Patons SWS in Natural Earth
Stitch Marker
Row Counter
Yarn Needle

Finished Measurements:
12 1/2" tall X 9" around - will stretch for larger bottles

Gauge:
5 stitches X 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
Cast on 36 stitches, place marker, and join to begin working in the round.

Rounds 1 - 9: work k2, p2 ribbing around
Round10: *yo, k2tog, yo, p2tog* repeat between *'s around
Rounds 11 - 19: work k2, p2 ribbing around

Round 20: *K3, P1* repeat between *'s around
Round 21: K2, p1, *k3, p1* to last st, k1
Round 22: K1, p1, *k3, p1* to last 2 sts, k2
Round 23: *P1, k3* around

Repeat rounds 20 - 23 until cozy measures 12 1/2 to 13 inches.
Purl 1 round, knit 2 more rounds and begin decreases.

Decreases:
1 - *K2, k2tog* repeat between *'s around
2 & 3 - Knit
4 - *K1, k2tog* around
5 - Knit
6 - *K2tog* around

Cut yarn and thread through stitches remaining on needle. Pull tight & weave in ends.

Finishing:
Cut a piece of yarn 3-4 yards long. Fold in half and twist until yarn twists when slackened, fold in half and let yarn twist on itself. Tie ends into knots and trim ends. Thread through holes in cozy and tie in a bow.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for casting on and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Crimson Wine Bottle Sleeve

Free Pattern: Crimson Wine Bottle Sleeve
I'm spreading a lot of the bottled love this year, even my moodiest relatives are tolerable after a glass or two (for them or me, doesn't matter!). This sleeve looks good on any bottle, but I think it looks better on the straight bottles, optional instructions* are included for a more tapered look.

Supplies:
US #7 double point needles
1 skein Patons SWS (Soy Wool Stripes) in Natural Crimson
Stitch Marker
Row Counter
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
5 sts X 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
Cast on 36 stitches, join to begin knitting in the round (place marker after you knit the first stitch to mark the beginning of the round) and knit for 14 rounds.

Next round, purl all stitches (round 15). *Optional row for tapered look - instead of purling all stitches, *yo, p2tog* around.

Next begin knitting for 8 rounds, and purl the 9th round (round 24). Repeat these 9 rows 7 more times (purl rounds 33, 42, 51, 60, 69, 78, 87).

After the last repeat you should have 9 purled rounds. Knit 2 more rows and begin decreases as follows.

Decrease rounds:
1 - K 2, K2tog
2 - Knit
3 - Knit
4 - K 1, K2tog
5 - Knit
6 - K2tog

Cut yarn and tread through remaining stitches on needles, pull tight and weave in ends. *For tapered sleeve, cut a piece of yarn 3-4 yards long, fold in half and twist until yarn twistis wen slackened, fold in half again and let yarn twist on itself. Tie ends into knots and trim ends. Thread through holes in cozy and tie in a bow.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great tips on cast on methods and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Fur & Sparkles Cuffs

Free Pattern: Fur & Sparkles Cuffs
My 9-year old daughter wanted a bracelet made of these 2 yarns (I had made a toy for her with them before, and had some left over). Since she had her friend over for the weekend, I made one for each of them. They loved them, and wore them all day, and all night! This is a really quick knit, I think it took me about 5 minutes for each of them, if that! It would be a great, fun project for young or beginning knitters.

Supplies:
US #4 needles
Small amounts of :
Patons Brilliant in Prettiest Plum and Pelsgarn Funny in Parti
Yarn Needle

Gauge:
28 sts = 5 1/2" - will stretch to 7 1/2", and fit around my women's small hand

Directions:
Holding both strands together, cast on 28 stitches using knitted cast on.

Work K2, P2 ribbing for 3 rows.

Bind off very loosely in pattern to keep stretch.

Sew ends together, and weave in ends.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Friday, December 14, 2007

'Round the Bottle Wine Cozy

Free Pattern: 'Round the Bottle Wine Cozy
For Christmas this year I thought I'd give a little holiday cheer in the form of an alcoholic beverage (only for those over 21! Sorry, lil' sis!). I wanted to do something a little different, so this one is knit sideways around the bottle. I hadn't used a provisional cast on before, so this was a little iffy, but I was happy with the way it turned out. The colors in the picture are a little brighter than it actually looks.

Supplies:
US #5 straight and double point needles plus an extra needle this size or a size smaller
Plymouth Yarns Outback Wool Color #996 (the skein I bought was huge - 400 yards - but I love it!)
Small amount of waste yarn in contrasting color (smooth is better)
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Finished Measurements:
12" tall X 9" around - will stretch

Gauge:
21 stitches X 28 rows = 4"

Directions:
Using waste yarn work provisional (or crochet) cast on for 68 stitches.

Row 1 - Knit
Row 2 - Purl
Row 3 - K 50, place marker, k 9, yo, k2tog, k 7
Row 4 - Purl
Row 5 - Knit
Row 6 - *sl 1 wyif, k1* 9 times, p 50
Row 7 - K 50, *sl 1 wyib, p1* 9 times
Row 8 - K 7, k2tog, yo, k9, p 50
Row 9 - K 50, p 18
Row 10 - K 18, p 50
Repeat these 10 rows 5 more times for a total of 6 repeats. Do not bind off!!!

Remove provisional cast on, picking up stitches as you go (you should have 68 stitches on both needles).
Do a 3 needle bind off.

Using double point needles, pick up 36 stitches around bottom edge of cozy.
Knit 2 rounds and begin decreases.

Round 1 - K 2, k2tog
Round 2 - Knit
Round 3 - K1, k2tog
Round 4 - Knit
Round 5 - K2tog

Cut yarn and thread through remaining stitches, pull tight.
Weave in ends.

Finishing:
Cut a piece of yarn about 4-5 yards long. Fold in half and twist until yarn twists when slackened, fold in half again and let yarn twist on itself. Tie ends into knots and trim ends. Thread through holes in cozy and tie in a bow.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on and bind off methods.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Wine Bottle Cozy

Free Pattern: Wine Bottle Cozy

My sister is hosting Thanksgiving at her house this year so I thought I'd bring a bottle of wine along with dessert. I've made a few wine cozies, but always from someone else's pattern. I H-A-T-E sewing seams, so this one is knit in the round.

Supplies:
US #8 double point needles
1 skein Red Heart worsted weight yarn in Gemstone (260 yrds or 141 grams)
I didn't use anywhere even near a quarter of the skein, so this would be a great stash buster
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Finished Measurements:
12" tall X 9" around - will stretch to 12" around

Gauge:
5 1/2 stitches X 4 1/4 rows = 1"

Directions:
Cast on 36 stitches and divide onto 3 dpn's. Place marker and join to begin working in the round.

Work 9 rows K3, P3 ribbing around.
Row 10: K3 *P1, yo, P2tog, K1, yo, K2tog* repeat between *'s around to last 6 stitches, K1, yo, K2tog, P3
Work 9 more rows K3, P3 ribbing around.
Knit all stitches on next and all following rows until work measures 12 1/2 ".
Purl 1 row.
Knit 2 rows and begin decreases.

Decrease rows:
Row 1: *K2, K2tog* repeat between *'s around
Row 2: Knit
Row 3: *K1, K2tog* repeat between*'s around
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: *K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Cut yarn and thread through stitches remaining on needles. Weave in ends.

Finishing:
Cut a piece of yarn about 4-5 yards long. Fold in half and twist until yarn twists when slackened, fold in half again and let yarn twist on itself. Tie ends into knots and trim ends. Thread through holes in cozy and tie in a bow.

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instuctions for cast on methods and knitting in the round.

This pattern is free for personal use only. Please do not use for profit unless all proceeds go to charity.