I’m Heidi, and I’m a craft book author and pattern designer specializing in yarn crafts like knitting, crochet, latch hook and macramé. I have been running the Hands Occupied Blog since 2010. Over the years I’ve collaborated with various crafters, companies and artists.
From the June 2020 issue
The provisional cast on is ideal for projects that require you to later join your stitches to another piece of knitting — making an almost seamless join once complete. While it may sound intimidating, this cast-on method isn’t tricky at all. Just follow this photo tutorial to discover how easy it can be!
View ProjectFrom the Knit Your Best Year Ever: 19 Knit Stitches, Tips, Tricks and More issue
Cast on.
First row: K3, yo.
First row continued: K2tog.
Continue working (yo, k2tog) until 5 sts remain. Finish row one with a final yo, k2tog. Then k3.
The right side of your first row will look like this. The bottom of the swatch above features the right side of the first row as
View ProjectFrom the August 2018 issue
Knitting flowers has never been simpler! Just follow this step-by-step guide to get your very own floral embellishment. This tutorial is designed for the Floral Magic Baby Hat, but these flowers look great on all types of projects, from pillows and scarves to blankets and sweaters.
View ProjectFrom the August 2018 issue
The provisional cast on is ideal for projects that require you to later join your stitches to another piece of knitting — making an almost seamless join once complete. While it may sound intimidating, this cast-on method isn’t tricky at all. Just follow this photo tutorial to discover how easy it can be!
View ProjectFrom the June 2023 issue
Pineapples have historically symbolized hospitality and to this day are found adorning the gates and walkways of important homes. Adorned with three dozen pineapples of its own, this fun shawl should make you feel right at home whenever you wear it.
View ProjectFrom the February 2018 issue
Short rows and creative increasing and decreasing combine forces to create an adorable heart-shaped baby blanket. Looking at this design, you’d think cabling would be involved, but there’s not a one in this pattern.
View ProjectFrom the Holiday Guide issue
These fun slippers come together fast and will be your go-to cozy companion for winters at home. The finished, flexible style of the slipper is achieved with traditional cuff-down, sock construction techniques and a combination of working flat and in the round.
View ProjectFrom the Holiday Guide issue
Channel a southwestern style with this bold afghan. Treat yourself to a single-panel afghan that emulates traditional desert design while you learn to work up this clever combination of linen stitch, stranded colorwork, slipped stitches and a dash of intarsia.
View ProjectFrom the August 2017 issue
Cast on.
First row: K3, yo.
First row continued: K2tog.
Continue working (yo, k2tog) until 5 sts remain. Finish row one with a final yo, k2tog. Then k3.
The right side of your first row will look like this. The bottom of the swatch above features the right side of the first row as
View ProjectFrom the August 2017 issue
These green rounds capture the essence of a summer stroll through a freshly manicured lawn. Worked flat from the center out, this throw pillow is a great way to learn construction techniques to help you level up your knitting skills.
View Project
