Tara's Knits

Amelia's Options Baby Hats

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:26:00 +0000

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!)

Beer Huggie

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:20:00 +0000

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.

Ribbed Beanie

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Tue, 06 May 2008 16:57:00 +0000

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.

Wine Glass Markers

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sun, 04 May 2008 12:24:00 +0000

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.

Simple Kid's Beanie

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:02:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 22:45:00 +0000

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.

Wrist Warmers

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:47:00 +0000

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.

Ear Warmers - Versions 1 & 2

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 16:14:00 +0000

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.

Pattern Block Afghan

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 16:50:00 +0000

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.

Puppy's Dumbell Toy

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 21:57:00 +0000

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.

Chunky Ankle Socks

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 16:28:00 +0000

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.

Kyla's Rose Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 13:58:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:46:00 +0000

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.

Swirled Wine Bottle Cozy

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 19:27:00 +0000

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.

Crimson Wine Bottle Sleeve

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 22:50:00 +0000

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.

Fur & Sparkles Cuffs

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 02:49:00 +0000

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.

'Round the Bottle Wine Cozy

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 02:35:00 +0000

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.

Wine Bottle Cozy

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:05:00 +0000

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.

Elf's Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:30:00 +0000

Free Pattern: Elf's Hat
Well, I made a Santa hat, but Santa needed a helper... My son can be an angel some days, but there are days that he reminds me of an evil elf. It's not enough that he calls my name every 2 minutes, he has to try to karate chop everything in sight, including the camera!

Supplies:

US #10 1/2 circular needles

US #10 1/2 double point needles

1 skein worsted weight wool in Red

1 skein worsted weight wool in Green

(I used a worsted weight from Knit Picks, I lost the labels, so I'm not sure of yardage, I think it was about 100 yards per skein?)

Stitch Marker

Yarn needle

Finished Measurements:

18" around X 16" tall minus pom-pom - will fit up to 24" head

Gauge:

4 1/2 stitches and 5 1/4 rows - 1"

Directions:

With green, and circular needles,cast on 72 stitches using cable cast on, place marker and join to begin knitting in the round. (You'll need to switch to dpn's when you've decreased enough that the circular is too big, or you can always use dpn's all the way.)

Rows 1-8: *K2, P2* repeat between *'s around

Row 9-10: Knit

Row 11: Knit with red, do not cut green

For the rest of this piece, when you reach the beginning of the round, you will bring the yarn you are not knitting with over from the left of the yarn you are using, this will 'weave' the yarn up so it will be ready to knit with later.

Row 12-19: Knit

Row 20: *K7, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row 21-29: Knit with green

Row 30: *K6, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row 31 - 39: Knit with red

Row 40: *K5, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row 41-49: Knit with green

Row 50: *K4, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row 51-59: Knit with red

Row 60: *K3, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row61-69: Knit with green

Row 70: *K2, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row 71-79: Knit with red

Row 80: *K1, K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Row 81-89: Knit with green

Row 90: *K2tog* repeat between *'s around

Cut yarn leaving a 6-7" tail, thread through remaining stitches and pull tight. Make pom-pom with red and green together and tie to top. Weave in ends and have a Merry Christmas!

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.

Kids' Santa Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 02:44:00 +0000

Free Pattern: Kids' Santa Hat
It's only November, but Christmas stuff is everywhere! So I thought my son would like a Santa hat. The brim pattern is adapted from "450 Knitting Stitches Vol. 2". Seed stitch or moss stitch would also look nice (and a lot simpler), but I wanted to try something different. Hope you all have a very jolly season!

Supplies:
US #10 1/2 16" circular needle
US #8 16" circular needle
US #8 double point needles
1 skein Red Heart worsted weight yarn in White (only a little bit was used)
1 skein Red Heart sport weight yarn in Cherry Red (about 1/3 of the skein was used)
Stitch Marker
Yarn Needle

Finished Measurements:
21" around X 10" tall minus pom-pom - will fit up to 25" head
To make bigger or smaller add/subtract stitches in increments of 4

Gauge:
With #10 1/2 needles and worsted weight yarn
3 stitches and 4 rows = 1"
With #8 needles and sport weight yarn
4 1/2 stitches and 7 rows = 1"

Directions:
With #10 1/2 needles and white yarn cast on 72 stitches using cable cast on, place marker to note begining of round and join to begin knitting in the round.
Worked with wrong side facing.
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: K1, *(K1, P1, K1) into next stitch, P3tog* repeat between *'s, K1
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: K1, *P3tog, (K1, P1, K1) into next stitch* repeat between *'s, K1
Repeat these 4 rows one more time.

Row 9: Knit to end, slip marker bring yarn to front, slip first stitch to left hand needle, bring yarn to back, slip stitch back to right hand needle, turn work and push through needles so right side is facing.
Row 10: Purl all stitches

With #8 needles and red yarn:
Rows 11-24: Knit
Row 25: *K7, K2tog*
Rows 26-29: Knit
Row 30: *K6, K2tog*
Rows 31-34: Knit
Row 35: *K5, K2tog*
Rows 36-39: Knit
I switched to double points needles here.
Row 40: *K4, K2tog*
Rows 41-44: Knit
Row 45: *K3, K2tog*
Rows 46-49: Knit
Row 50: *K2, K2tog*
Rows 51-54: Knit
Row 55: *K1, K2tog*
Rows 56-60: Knit
Row 61: *K2tog*

Break yarn and thread through remaining stitches, pull tight. Make pom-pom with white and tie to top. Weave in ends and have a Merry Christmas!

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

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

'Skull' Cap Chart

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 00:56:00 +0000

Free Pattern Chart: 'Skull'

For regular knitting X = k w/ cc right side, p w/ cc wrong side

For double knitting worked in the round X = k w/ cc, p w/ mc

For double knitting worked flat X = k w/ cc, p w/ mc right side, k w/ mc, p w/ cc wrong side

'Skull' Cap

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 23:34:00 +0000

Free Pattern: 'Skull' Cap
My husband loves anything with skulls on it, and is always asking me to knit yet another hat (he has about 5 already!). He also wanted something orange. I had a little orange yarn left from another project, so I thought I'd make a black hat with an orange skull. How could I possiby go wrong with that?! By the way, he loves it, so I guess I either did a good job, or he doesn't want to hurt my feelings ( which would be a big mistake on his part!).

Supplies:
US #8 16" circular needles
5 US #8 double point needles
MC: 1 skein Red Heart worsted weight yarn in Black ( I did not use even close to a quarter of the skein)
CC: 1 skein Bernat worsted weight yarn in Hunter Orange (only a few yards were used)
3 stitch markers (make sure one is a different color or use pieces of yarn)
Yarn Needle
Pick your own colors, just make sure they are both worsted weight and care instructions are the same.

Finished Measurements:
20" around X 7" tall - will fit 20" to 24" head
To make bigger or smaller, use larger/smaller needles.

Gauge:
4 stitches and 6 rows = 1"

Directions:
With circular needle and MC cast on 72 stitches using cable cast on. Place odd marker and join to knit in the round, knit for 6 rounds.
Round 7: K26, place marker, K19, place marker, K27

The following are the rows for the skull pattern (see chart link on side) , they are knit/purled back and forth to keep from having to cut yarn or having long floats on the inside.
When wrapping stitches, be sure to keep wrap tight or you can knit/purl wrap and stitch together to keep from having holes.
When switching between colors, be sure to twist strand of yarn together, again, to keep from having holes.
To make sure there are no floats inside, bring yarn you are not using over the yarn you are knitting/purling with, this weaves in the floats.

Rounds 8 - 25 Even Rows: K to first marker, K according to chart to second marker, K to end of round, slip marker, to wrap stitch bring yarn to front, slip first stitch, bring yarn to back, turn work and purl.
Rounds 8 - 25 Odd Rows:P to first marker, P according to chart to second marker, P to end of round, slip marker, to wrap stitch bring yarn to back, slip first stitch, bring yarn to front, turn work and knit.

Round 26 - 32: Begin working in the round again, K all stitches
Round 33: *K7, K2tog* repeat to end of round
Round 34 and all following even numbered rows: K all stitches
Round 35: *K6, K2tog* repeat to end of round
Round 37: *K5, K2tog* repeat to end of round
I switched to double point needles at this point.

Round 39: *K4, K2tog* repeat to end of round
Round 41: *K3, K2tog* repeat to end of round
Round 43: *K2, K2tog* repeat to end of round
Round 45: *K2, K2tog* repeat to end of round
Round 47: *K2tog* repeat to end of round
Cut yarn leaving a 6" to 7" tail. Thread through stitches left on needles. Turn work inside out and bring needle and yarn to inside and pull tight. Weave in ends and enjoy!

Tips:
Knittingpatterncentral.com has great instructions for cast on methods and working with colors.

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

Seed Stitch Afghan

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 02:16:00 +0000

Free Pattern: Seed Stitch Afghan
After the first afghan I knit (which took me 4 months to complete!), I could have happily gone the rest of my life without knitting another. But.... My daughter comes home with 2 skeins of yarn and asks me to make her an afghan. Dilema! Maybe if I use bigger needles it'll go faster, but bigger stitches create 'holes' in the fabric. Thinking... Seed Stitch! The alternate knit-purl of each stitch and each row keeps the stitches tighter. Plus, this one only took me 10 days. The blue one is for my son, I made it wider by adding a few stitches, but this one seems to be taking a lot longer!

Supplies:
US #15 circular needles (at least 29" in length)
For Pink/Purple/Green:
4 skeins Red Heart worsted weight yarn in Gemstone (260 yrds or 141 grams per skein)
For Blue/White:
5 skeins Red Heart worsted weight yarn in Bay Print (260 yrds or 141 grams per skein)

Finished Measurements:
Gemstone: Approx. 3 1/2' X 5 1/2'
Bay Print: Approx. 4' X ? (not finished yet)

Stitch Pattern:
Multiple of 2 + 1
Every row: *K1, P1* repeat between *'s to last stitch, K1

Directions:

Cast on 95 stitches (105 for Bay Print) using your prefered cast on method (I used cable cast on because I think it's a much neater edge). Knit in stitch pattern until desired length or until you only have enough yarn to bind off. Bind off in pattern, weave in ends, and enjoy!

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

Moss Stitch Afghan

noreply@blogger.com (Tara's Knits) — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 20:20:00 +0000

Free Pattern: Moss Stitch Afghan

This was the first afghan I knit from my own pattern ( I learned a lot in the making too!). It took me 4 months to finish! I was only able to work on it for about an hour a night, and I would put it down to knit other things (instant gratification!). My husband loves this one because it's big and heavy, perfect for a cold winter night! Plus, it matches my couch. Matching pillow pattern is posted here.

Supplies:

US #10 circular needles (at least 29" in length)

Size I crochet hook

10 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)

Use any colors you like, just make sure it's a machine washable yarn!

Finished Measurements:

Approx. 4 1/2' wide X 6' long

Stitch Pattern:

Multiple of 2

Row 1 & 2: *K1, P1* repeat between asterisks across

Row 3 & 4: *P1, K1* repeat between asterisks across

Directions:

Cast on 240 stitches using your prefered cast on method (edges will be hidden by crochet edge in finishing).

Knit in stitch pattern until afghan is 6' long or until you only have enough yarn to bind off. Bind off in pattern, weave in ends.

Finishing:

Use crochet hook and black yarn to single crochet edge around entire afghan, weave in ends and 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.