There are many knitters and crocheters who love to knit and don’t necessarily wish to knit big projects such as sweaters and blankets. Many of them prefer to do smaller projects such as accessories or children’s knitwear. The reasons are many:
- A quick finish means they can be wrapped up fast – great for deadlines.
- They use up excess yarn and, when partnered with another beautiful left-over skein or ball of yarn, make us feel smart and practical.
- They travel well – not needing more than a pair of needles or a circular needle and a ball of yarn – and are easily tucked into a purse or tote.
- They make thoughtful token gifts (i.e. baby hats for a newborn, mittens for kids, etc.)
- It is a smart way to try out a new technique before deciding it’s not for you or deciding to commit yourself to a larger project. (Examples: fair isle, brioche, etc.)
So, as part of our ongoing service to the knit and crochet fans we love and respect, here are a few suggestions for some of our favorite tiny treasures. Most of these are done on a dk weight yarn, which is normally worked with a US 5 or 6 needle. This is what many of us think of as a comfortable weight yarn. It is fine enough to see stitch detail, but it works up quickly enough so that you see progress. A few are on worsted weight yarns which is a quick knit if you knit regularly.
First up is my favorite: The new baby hat. What makes this the ideal small treasure is that the tiny baby that will wear it will make your work look great. Just google “free knitting pattern for an infant hat” and you will find hundreds. The one below is very easy and, while it calls for a circular needle, it can also be done on two straight needles – though it’s worth trying on a 16” circular since no seam is best for comfort. This is the kind of project that allows you to set your inner artist free. Choose your favorite color or use two and make it striped. You might trim it with a unique topping or leave it as is. The heart really says it all!
You can finish these hats off with a pom-pom on the top. Here is where you can find the best and simplest pom-pom maker, or choose one of the many trim ideas you can find online.
While the pattern specifies a fingering weight, you might try it on a dk weight given the size of the needle recommended. Here is a perfect choice: Symfonie Yarns! You have a multitude of gorgeous colors to choose from, and it is easy to care for since it’s machine washable wool, which means It’s soft and warm - just like the baby you are making it for!
Cowls
Cowls are simply the best! They are ideal for so many reasons: They are easily stashed in your pocket or purse so, unlike scarves, you are not likely to lose one. They are super stash busters, and when combined with the right tones you can create a unique palette, using your favorite colors. They area also remarkably easy to knit. Note: If you don’t already know how to knit in the round, it’s worth learning. Here are some recommended circular needles for people just starting out on this knitting technique.
Here’s another cool thing about cowls: When knitted “deeper” (or longer), they double as hats – but the best kind of hat. One that doesn’t mash down your hair while keeping the wind out.
Fingerless Gloves
These simple little wrist cover ups help to keep your hands cozy and warm. Maybe it’s because they cover pulse points, but it’s remarkable how well they do the job! If you tuck these little “wristers” under the cuff of your winter coat, it stops the wind from chasing up your arms. They also keep your fingers nice and free which means you can easily maneuver them for important tasks like driving or knitting – but not at the same time!
Like the other little projects shown here, they normally use only one skein – if even that much. If doing multiple colors, you can use yarn left over from other finished projects. These are also great for practicing new techniques. The ones shown here are done in lightweight yarn such as sock or dk weigh like Terra or Viva . The pretty ones on the far right are crochet – so there’s something here for everyone.