December 2016: Table of Contents

A Note from the Editor

When I was little, tucked inside our fire-warmed house, I used to love to crack open the window so I could breathe in the winter air. Its low temperate so cold it was almost tangible – an icy needle entering my nose, my throat and my lungs. There’s something magical about it. And each year, as I step outside after a fresh snowfall, I’m pulled back into the body of that little girl ― waiting by the window ― eager for another chance to play outside.

Even as an adult, the magic of the season is hard to deny. From preparing a holiday meal filled with rich roasts and spiced desserts, to picking out the perfect Christmas tree to decorate your home, there are plenty of ways to ignite that sense of holiday wonder. It sounds cliché, but aside from decorating, one of the ways I love to spread the holiday cheer is by gifting family and friends with handmade knits. Whether that means knitting a scarf for a person in need or setting aside extra time to make your husband that cabled sweater he’s been asking for, knitting for others keeps the spirit of the season alive in exciting and new ways.

To help get you started on your own to-knit list, dive into our Merry and Bright section which features many quick and simple gift ideas, including the adorable Patches Make Perfect Ornaments and the Blue Spruce Mug Cozy. For cozy knits that are both stylish and warm, the Winter Whites section has you covered. From the trendy Cozy Vintage Dress to the stunning White Hot Chocolate Coat and the Chai Latte Pullover, you’ll find the ideal gift for everyone on your list.

This year, we’ve noticed that chunky knits are everywhere, from West Elm to Pottery Barn. For our own take on this trend, don’t miss the luxurious Winter Garden Gate Throw. Its interlocking cables and clean edge make this piece a must-have staple for your living room, bedroom – or wherever you’re looking to add an instant touch of inviting warmth.

Happy holiday knitting,

Caitlin Eaton signature

Design submissions and article ideas should be sent via email to submissions@ilikeknitting.com

Features

Holiday Bells Pillow

New and unique holiday décor is always welcome and Holiday Bells is a perfect addition to any home! Knit with worsted, DK or even bulky yarn, and combined with some craft store bells, this whimsical seasonal pillow will add a touch of color. Make one, or a pair, for yourself or to gift! Read More 

Holiday Bells Pillow Tutorial

Holiday Bells can be knit using two strands of a DK or worsted yarn held together, or one strand of a bulky yarn. The suggested gauge of 3½ stitches to the inch can be adjusted to accommodate the yarn selected, making this a perfect pattern for using up stash yarns. Learn how to add the bells to this pillow and your future knitting designs. Read More 

Forever Diamonds Series: Forever Diamonds Hat

This hat features easy knit and purl textured stitches and a pop of color at the edges. The hat can be made beanie style or slouchy, and it sports an optional pom-pom for fun. The hat is worked in the round with a cast on that blends into the pattern on the body of the item. Read More 

Knitting Essentials: What Every Knitter Really Needs

When I started knitting over 14 years ago, I thought all you needed was a skein of yarn and some needles.  While this is basically true, there are many other items that can make life a whole lot easier.  From weaving in ends to keeping track of where you are in a complicated stitch pattern,… Read More 

Planning a Season’s Closet of Wearable Accessories

As the weather starts cooling down and we head into fall, many knitters start ramping up their projects. If you’ve vowed that this is the year where you will wear your own handmade creations rather than store bought, let me share 4 tips for planning a season’s worth of wearable accessories. Read More 

Patterns

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