As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, knitters everywhere are reaching for their needles in anticipation of cozy season. And if there's one thing we love almost as much as knitting, it's giving handmade gifts. The holidays will be here before we know it, so we've gathered 5 knitting projects we think you can finish in time.
5 Quick and Giftable Knits
1. Sailor Slippers by Annie Germain
Photo by Annie Germain
Who doesn't love a cozy pair of slippers for the holidays? And we promise you can knit these up in just 2 days. Worked with a US 11 (8 mm) needle and super bulky yarn, the slippers are knit flat and then seamed using Mattress stitch and grafting. The i-cord edge at the opening gives them a polished, professional touch, and the color possibilities, from stripes to solids, are endless.
These slippers need to be knit with 100% wool, because the fun part is felting them! You'll swear they're far too big and will never fit anyone, but you'll be amazed by what happens after a couple of runs through the washer. The trick is to toss them in with some towels or jeans, then shape them by hand while they're still wet. Annie explains each of these steps in detail in her pattern.
2. Bandana Cowl by Purl Soho
Photo by Purl Soho
The Bandana Cowl is a free pattern from Purl Soho that uses Aran weight yarn and a US 10 (6.0 mm) needle. You begin by working the top of the cowl in the round, then switch to short rows to shape the bandana point. The pattern is beautifully written, with detailed instructions for either a wrap and turn short row or a German short row. The choice is yours!
We also love all the ways you can play with color, and the pattern walks you through each version: Colorblock, Breton stripe, Transitional stripe and Monogram. We're partial to the Monogram, which uses duplicate stitch to add that personal touch.
3. Skyping Beanie by Halldora
Photo by Halldora J
Keep everyone on your list warm this winter with the Skyping Beanie by Halldora. You can knit this unisex hat in either DK or Aran weight yarn for the ultimate squish and coziness. Wear it slouchy, or fold up the brim for a snugger look. The all-over ribbing ensures a perfect fit.
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Pro Tip: Include care instructions with any handmade gift. If the item needs to be hand washed with a wool wash, it's a lovely touch to include a small bottle for the recipient to use. |
4. Never Not Gnoming by Sarah Schira
Photo by Sarah Schira
How adorable would one of these gnomes look poking out of a filled stocking? Give one as a stand-alone gift for the gnome lovers in your life, or tuck it into a box of their favorite holiday sweets.
You'll need fingering weight yarn, a US 2 (2.75 mm) needle and a US 2.5 (3 mm) needle. The pattern includes 3 different gnome sizes, along with detailed instructions to help you bring them to life.
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5. Novus Knit Pouch by Laura Nelkin
Photo by Laura Nelkin
We love Laura Nelkin's work, and you can read more about her in our Maker's Spotlight blog post. So of course one of her patterns made our giftable knits list! This sweet little pouch is perfect as a gift on its own or as a beautiful way to wrap smaller gifts and treats.
To make the Novus Knit Pouch, you'll need DK weight yarn, a US 3 (3.25 mm) needle and a US 5 (3.75 mm) needle. The pouch is modular and seamless, using Laura's clever trick of stitch saver tubing to avoid picking up stitches. Don't worry, she includes a tutorial video full of helpful tips and tricks.
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Key Insight: Remember, not everyone in your life needs a hand knit gift. It's perfectly okay to give yourself the gift of slowing down and enjoying your knitting, without the pressure of making something for everyone. |
You deserve something special as well.
While you're busy planning gifts for everyone else, don't forget to add a little something for yourself to your own wish list. A thoughtful set of tools can make every project more enjoyable, whether that's a notions fold like our On The Go to keep your essentials close, or our Magnetic Pattern Fold for easy pattern management. Drop a hint, share the link, or treat yourself. After all that giving, you've earned it.
Share your finished pieces with our community on social media using the hashtag #ThreadAndMaple. For more inspiration, explore premium knitting tools and accessories designed to elevate your craft.