We are down to the last few weeks before the final Christmas of this decade. Many of us may still have a few folks on our lists with question marks rather than a check next to their names. I mean, I haven’t done any shopping or making, so I’m definitely in that camp. I’ve compiled a collection of quick projects (*knit AND crochet), most of which are one-skeiners, that will hopefully help you with that odd person on your list, make you feel productive, and use up a bit of stash at the same time. Garments are adult-sizes – no baby or children’s patterns have been suggested.
Please note, some links will take you to Ravelry pages!
CROCHET
1.5 Hour Beanie from Jess Coppom
This super fast beanie from Make & Do Crew is a fun, quick project that can be modified for different yarns. I used a heavy worsted (my hand-dyed Arianwen) for this sample, but the pattern calls for bulky. Work it up in a solid color yarn or different yarns to create vertical stripes. Make a pompom of the same yarn or a different color.
Desert Winds Triangle Scarf from Jess Coppom
Another great single skein project from Make & Do Crew, this triangular shawl/scarf is also quite easy to adjust. When I made this one, I didn’t have a full 4 ounce skein, so I just worked the increases until I was halfway through my ball of yarn (weighing as I went) and then started the decreases. Worsted weight, DK weight, even a heavier yarn – it all works! A great way to showcase a lovely handdyed yarn (shown here in Enid).
Spring Blossoms from the Unraveled Mitten
And of course, home goods are always a hit, especially for that person you know loves to decorate for the season. Or that person who you can’t begin to guess at sizes. These coasters can be worked up in any color, so match it to their decor, make it holiday-inspired, or just do what you want. Work up a big stack and then divide them up among your friends and family. These will make great hostess gifts for parties too!
Two-Tone Slippers from Jenna Watson
They might be called “two-tone”, but these slippers can be any number of colors! I worked up a pair last holiday season for my SIL and I felt so smug as she opened them. I used a bright yellow and gold to match her old living room. I remember how she said it cheered her up. Does she wear them? I don’t know, but I gave her a handmade gift and my job was done. Later I made a pair for myself using little odd balls of left overs from all the crocheting I had done for my holidays shows. So quick and fun, I’m a convert to crocheted slippers!
KNIT
Uncooperative Hat from Christine Parker
Clever and snarky at the same time, this hat will be as fun to knit as it is to give to the lucky recipient! While it’s not a one-skein project, you will have fun digging through your stash to find different coordinating colors for the text, ribbing, and pompom.
Helix Mitts from Sybil R.
I’m mildly obsessed with all the mitten patterns from Sybil. I’ve been trying the crochet ones, but haven’t quite gotten the hang of it. Perhaps when I’m not also watching The Crown and can focus a little more, I’ll be able to achieve greatness. In the meantime, these garter stitch mitts are really awesome looking and perhaps require slightly less of your undivided attention.
Non-Felted Slippers from Yuko Nakamura
Sure, slippers and socks can be a little more tricky when it comes to gifting, but these are way too cool to pass up! Knit with a super bulky yarn (and no felting required – which can be so unpredictable), they will work up fast. Don’t have the right weight yarn? Try holding two strands together to make up the difference. Another great way to eat up that stash!
Winter’s End Cowl from Rebecca Shepler
Rebecca is a friend of mine and a very talented artist. I love the funkiness of the pattern and all the various ways to wear it. Maybe not something for that less adventurous person on your gift-giving list, but definitely something to consider for your stylish friends and family! Also a great way to show off an interesting yarn, or just keep it neutral.
