A hand-knit gift is truly unforgettable and priceless. Instead of purchasing a knit beanie for your loved one, wouldn’t it be extra special to make one yourself?
The holiday season is the perfect time to learn knitting. Not only can you craft one-of-a-kind gifts for your friends and family, but you’ll teach yourself a skill that provides joy beyond the festive season.
In this article, you’ll discover why knitting is more than a craft and how to get started on your crafting journey. You’ll also find some quick and easy knitting projects perfect for holiday gifting.
Embrace and trust the process – you’ll be rewarded in more ways than you think. Happy holidays and happy knitting!
The Benefits of Knitting.
Did you know that one of the earliest-discovered knitted artifacts are socks from ancient Egypt?
Knitting has been around long before your granny was making you scarves and hats. It can be found across all different cultures, each with their own traditions. There’s a reason why knitting has been around for centuries and generations.
It’s a stress-buster. The repetitive motions of knitting are effective in calming the mind and body. There’s nothing like centering yourself with a few rows of knitting in the morning, mid-day, or before bed. Some people even like the soothing click-clack of the needles as you work your stitches.
It’s a creative outlet. Who knew you could create so much with some needles and string? The clothes and accessories of your dreams are just a few stitches away. The sense of pride and accomplishment you feel after completing a knitting project is simply unparalleled.
It’s a brain-booster. From counting stitches to following charts and patterns, knitting keeps your mind sharp and engaged. It’s a great way to maintain your cognitive function, which is especially important as you age.
It’s a community-builder. Seek out your local knitting group – your new crafty friends are waiting to meet you! Not only are knitting groups excellent social opportunities, but you’ll meet knitters of all ages and experience levels from whom you can learn new things.
Where Do I Start? / What Should I Knit?
It’s never been easier! There are countless, free resources available for beginners – you just need to know where to look.
The internet: I taught myself how to knit by watching tutorials on YouTube. You can find videos for just about any technique you’ll ever need – even full, step-by-step patterns for sweaters, mittens, and more.
The library: You might be surprised to discover the collection of knitting patterns at your local library, waiting for you to check them out. Head to the circulation desk and ask your librarian where to find them.
The local yarn store: The experts at your local yarn store will be thrilled to help you get everything you need for your first project! Just tell them you’re a beginner knitter, what you want to knit, and they’ll take care of the rest. (This is exactly what I did.)
These gift knits are fast, simple, and require just a few balls of yarn. Also, these are all easy to find free patterns for:
Hats/Beanies: You can knit up a hat in just a few days – you’ll be surprised at how quickly it will fly off your needles! A great chance to play with colorwork stripes and ribbing.
Mittens: A perfect project for the adventurous beginner! Mittens are small and work up fast if knit with worsted weight wool at a tight gauge.
Scarves/Hoods: If you have a bit more time on your hands, you can knit up a beautifully-cozy scarf that a loved one will surely appreciate in the middle of winter. If you’re feeling adventurous, hooded scarves are the perfect cold-weather accessory for your fashion-forward loved ones.
Bandanas: A super quick knit that brings a boho vibe to any outfit – does this sound like a good gift for anyone you know? Bandanas are great for colorwork and practicing lacework and increasing/decreasing stitches.