Warm Pink Mittens

Mittens are a form of  winter wear that keeps the hands warm and come in a variety of styles. Unlike gloves they are easier to knit because they lack defined fingers other than the thumb. Mittens are one of the easiest garments to create because you only need to use minimal shaping techniques. Knitting mittens is much like knitting socks, they're quick, easy, inexpensive, and make an ideal gift.This pattern is suitable for novice knitters. Once you've got the hang of it, you can customize the fit and design to the suit the needs of your intended recipient.
This pattern size is Teens/ Adult
To knit these mittens you will need:

1 ball Chunky Type Yarn

Knitting Needles: Size 5 mm (U.S. 8) or whichever needles you require to produce the tension given below.

Tension: 18 sts and 24 rows = 4 ins [10 cm] in stocking st.

Instructions:
Left Mitt: **Cast on 34 sts.

Row 1: (RS). K2. *P2. K2. Rep from * to end of row.
Row 2: P2. *K2. P2. Rep from * to end of row.
Rep these 2 rows K2. P2 ribbing for 2 ins (6 cm) ending on a 2nd row.

Box Pattern:
Row 1: * k2, P2 rep from * to end
Row 2: as row 1
Row 3: * P2, K2  rep from* to end
Row 4: as row 3
These four rowws form box pattern

Work 4 rows box pattern**
Shape thumb: 1st row: work 15sts in pattern. (M1. K1) twice. pattern to end of row.

2nd and alt rows: pattern but Purl thumb stitches.       

3rd row: pattern 15 sts. M1. K3. M1. pattern to end of row.

5th row: patten 15 sts. M1. K5. M1. pattern to end of row.

7th row: pattern 15sts. M1. K7. M1. pattern to end of row.

9th row: pattern15. M1. K9. M1. pattern to end of row. 44 sts.

11th row: pattern27. Turn. Cast on 1 st. P13 (including cast on st). Turn. Cast on 1 st. K14.

 ***Beg with a purl row, work 9 rows in stocking st.

 Next row: (K2tog) 7 times. Break yarn. Thread end through rem sts. Draw up and fasten securely. Sew thumb seam. With RS of work facing, join yarn to last st on right hand needle. Pick up and knit 2 sts at base of thumb. pattern across sts on left hand needle. 34 sts.

Cont even until work from top of ribbing measures 6 ins [15 cm] ending with RS facing for next row.

Shape top: 1st row: K1. Sl1. K1. psso. pattern 11. K2tog. K2. Sl1. K1. psso. pattern 11. K2tog. K1.

2nd and alt rows: Pattern (no shaping)

3rd row: K1. Sl1. K1. psso. pattern 9. K2tog. K2. Sl1. K1. psso. pattern 9. K2tog. K1.

 Cont in this manner, having 2 sts less between dec every alt row to 18 sts. Cast off purlways. Sew top and side seam.***

Right Mitt: Work from ** to ** as given for Left Mitt.

Shape thumb: 1st row: pattern18. (M1. K1) twice. pattern to end of row.

2nd and alt rows: patter but Purl across thumb sts.

3rd row: pattern 18. M1. K3. M1. pattern to end of row.

5th row: pattern 18. M1. K5. M1. pattern to end of row.

7th row: pattern 18. M1. K7. M1. pattern to end of row.

9th row: pattern 18. M1. K9. M1. pattern to end of row. 44 sts.

 11th row: patern 30. Turn. Cast on 1 st. P13 (including cast on st). Turn. Cast on 1 st. pattern14. Work from *** to *** as given for Left Mitt.

Mittens are an excellent project for using up all those leftover yarn scraps you don't need special supplies, not much yarn. Why not donate a set of mitts to a Christmas gift fayre. Or if you're looking to do a good deed, try knitting mittens to donate to charities in the winter months and help keep someone warm.
If you would like to knit these mittens for charity please see :
'Thoughtful Thursday' Warm Winter Project
'Knitting to Help Bridge and Beyond'
'Knit with loving hands'
'knit with love' earlier posts also on this blog. These charities and many more like them, need your help.

Pink Wave Keyhole Scarf

Lock in the warmth with this new scarf style that is comfortable and easy to wear when temperatures take a dip. A keyhole scarf is basically a scarf with a hole in it. One end of the scarf is put through the hole to keep it in place around your neck without being bulky. This Pink Wave Keyhole Scarf is a quick and easy knit scarf pattern and makes a great gift as the colder weather approaches.     


You Will Need:
100grms Double knit type yarn in Main colour
50grms Double knit type yarn in Contrast colour
Size 4mm needles.

Scarf
First Half
Cast on 36st in Main clour
Row 1 Knit
Row 2 Purl
Row 3 Knit
Row 4 Purl
Row 5 K2tog, 3 times,(yo,K1) 6 times, K2tog 6 times, (yo, K1) 6 times, K2tog 3 times
Row 6 Knit
These 6 rows form the pattern
Change to contrast colour and work 6 rows of pattern
Change to main colour and work 6 rows of pattern
Change to contrast colour and work 6 rows of pattern
Change to main colour and work 6 rows of pattern
( 3 'waves' in main colour and two in contrast)

Change to knit 2, Purl 2 Rib and work 8 rows.

Work Keyhole

Rib 18 sts place remaining 18 sts on holder.

Turn, working on these 18 sts only, continue in Rib

and work 22 rows, ending in middle of piece. Cut yarn and place sts on holder.

With right side facing, join yarn to 18 sts on holder. Rib for 22 rows, ending at side edge.

Turn, Rib18 sts, then Rib across 18 sts on holder.

Turn, Rib even until work measures 42 cm from the begining. Place stitches on holder.

Second Half

Cast on and work same as for first half of scarf, omitting keyhole.

Work even until piece measures same as first half.

FINISHING

Join with 3-Needle Bind off as follows:

Slip sts from first half onto knitting needle. With wrongsides facing, and points of both needles pointing to the right,

use spare needle to * knit the first st from the front

needle together with the first st from the back needle.

Knit the next st from each needle in the same manner, then bind off 1 st. Repeat from * until all sts have been bound off. Fasten off last st. Weave in yarn ends.

As this month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month I chose to knit this in pink and white. This scarf is a stylish way to show your support.

Enjoy Your knitting!

Easy Knit Pink Beret

The origin of the beret can be traced back to the Basques, (people living on both the French and Spanish sides of the Pyrenees Mountains). The original Basque beret was either navy blue or red, but today the beret is available in a wide array of colors. The beret fits snugly around the head, and can be "shaped" in a variety of ways – it is commonly worn pushed to one side (local custom usually prescribes which, but there is no universal rule) and can be worn by both men and women. Few items of clothing have been adopted by so many varied groups of people, living in different periods of history, as the beret. During World War II, the French Resistance movement, the Maquis, wore the Basque beret and because it was the most common French headwear, the Maquis was able to wear it without bringing undue suspicion to this covert operation.
The beret was then taken up by special forces, often with the suggestion of ‘undress’ uniform, such as USA Green Berets, Black Berets (USA Rangers), UN Blue Berets, Turkish Red Berets to name but a few.

Che Guevara, a hero of the Cuban revolution, made the beret a worldwide symbol of the revolutionary guerilla fighter. The Guardian Angels, a vigilante group who patrols the subways and streets of some of the world’s major cities, wear red berets. In fashion the beret is part of the popular stereotype of intellectuals, film directors, artists (particularly painters), hipsters, bohemians and beatniks. The Rastafari movement often wear a knitted or crocheted black beret with red, gold, and green circles atop their dreadlocks. They consider the beret and dreadlocks to be symbols of the biblical covenant of God with his chosen people, the black Israelites. The circular flat shape of the wool, felt or cotton beret can be sporty when worn close to the head facing forward or jaunty when tipped to the side; when pulled down to cover all or part of the forehead, it is more dramatic. Inexpensive and hardy, berets are available in a range of style variations, colors, and sizes.

If you want to get ahead in the style stakes this winter, then don't get a hat, get a beret! Berets are big hits this season. Recently, a long line of celebrity A-listers have been seen sporting a beret, from Beyoncé, Sienna Miller, Cameron Diaz, Rhianna, Fergie, Madonna to Kylie Minogue.


choosing how to wear it is very much a matter of taste. Experiment with jaunty angles and if it feels right for you, then go for it!
The best thing about wearing a beret, apart from giving the impression that you have a sense of fun, is that it suits most face shapes and transcends all age groups.

I chose a soft boucle type yarn in a Pale Rose Pink shade as October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and this is a great way to show your support.

Beret:
Tension 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm (4ins) Size 5mm needles.

Abbreviations;
K - Knit
P - Purl
M1 - Make one extra stitch by knitting front and back of the stitch
K2tog - Knit 2 stitches together


Cast on 82 sts.
Work 4 rows in (K2. P2) ribbing  inc 3 sts evenly across last row. 85 sts.
Proceed as follows:

1st row: (RS). Knit.
2nd and alt rows: Purl.
3rd row: K1. (M1. K14) 6 times. 91 sts.
5th row: K1. (M1. K15) 6 times. 97 sts.
7th row: K1. (M1. K16) 6 times. 103 sts.
Cont in this manner, inc 6 sts as before on every alt row until there are 115 sts.
Work 4 rows even in stocking st.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K17) 6 times. 109 sts.
Next and every alt row: Purl.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K16) 6 times. 103 sts.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K15) 6 times. 97 sts.
Cont in this manner, dec 6 sts as before on every alt row to 31 sts. Purl 1 row.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K3) 6 times. 26 sts.
Break yarn leaving a long end. Thread yarn through rem sts. Draw up tightly and fasten securely. Sew back seam.

The main hat trend of this season is a beret. I guess berets will always be in fashion. They can become narrower or wider but they are invariably popular among women all over the world.

'Thoughtful Thursday' The Pink Slipper Project

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic violence is one of the great tragedies of our society. The women who escape from their dangerous life circumstances, particularly with their children, are nothing less than heroines. When they arrive at women's shelters, they often have escaped with very little possessions, security, or self-esteem.

Today's 'Thoughtful Thursday' features, The Pink Slipper Project, founded by Joyce Lucas which offers a way to help these women and children.I hope as you read more you will find out what you can do to contribute and help these survivors take steps towards healing. Domestic violence shelters offer protection and healing for women and children escaping from abusive situations. But escaping to a shelter is just the first step. Their sense of security and self-worth has been battered, and they may struggle to accept that they are worthy of kindness.

The Pink Slipper Project seeks to help by collecting and distributing handmade slippers to shelters all over the country for these survivors. Not only do these slippers warm their feet, a valuable asset, when you consider how often abuse survivors must leave without many, if any, of their belongings, but they also serve as a tangible reminder that someone cared enough to offer their time and efforts to provide a gift.

Your slipper contribution does not need to be pink, and the slippers do not need to be made using any specific slipper pattern, but they do need to be handmade, warm and, of course, new. Whether it be one pair of slippers you are donating or 20, your contribution is just as important.

Visit the Project's website and their facebook page wich offers guidelines, lists of needed donations, free slipper patterns, and challenges to help make the knitting and donation process more motivating and enjoyable.

Here's a message from Rachel from The Pink Slipper Project:

Hi, and thank you for your interest in The Pink Slipper Project. I’m Rachel, manager of the Facebook page, standing in for Joyce Lucas, the founder, who is on medical leave of absence. We specialize in slippers. They can be knit, crocheted, sewn in any pattern, any colors, in sizes from toddlers to ladies.

Slippers donated by our members are sent to women’s shelters for victims of domestic violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The members of PSP donated purple (the color of DVAM) slippers to Comfort Scarves of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Barbara, the founder, sent the slippers and scarves made by her members to the 11 shelters she services in SW PA. All these handmade slippers and scarves will bring comfort to those who receive them.

Every day 3 women die from domestic violence. 

1 in 4 women suffer domestic abuse.

We have one challenge active at this time. We are sending slippers, knit or crocheted washcloths, and handmade teddy bears/small handmade toys to Comfort Scarves for their Holiday Project. We’d love to have your help. They can use as many slippers as we can send.

Please join us on our Facebook page - The Pink Slipper Project. One pair of handmade slippers will go a long way to warming soles and healing souls.

To continue thier work, lots and lots of slippers are needed! They can be knitted, crocheted or stitched with a sewing machine or by hand. There are FREE patterns for all types of slippers on the patterns page on the web site.

Here's a pattern to help you start.

Cosy Slippers.

You Will Need:

2 skeins of Chunky type yarn any color. I chose pink as it's breast cancer awareness month.
Size 10  (6mm)knitting needles, large plastic needle, regular sewing needle and thread and 2 decorative buttons. This makes one pair of slippers.

Tension 4 sts  and 6 rows (3 garter stitch ridges) = 1 inch

Available in small, medium and large size

Outer Moc:
Cast on 29 (35-41) sts
Row 1: Knit across.
Row 2: K9(11-13), *P1,K9(11-13), repeat from *once more.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 until  30 (34-38) rows have been knit.

Shape Toe:
Row 1: P1, *K1,P1, repeat from *across row
Row 2: K1, *P1,K1, repeat from *across row
Repeat these 2 rows until you have 12 rows (14-16) then work row 1 once more, cut off yarn leaving an 8” end.

Finishing:
 Draw 8” end through remaining sts and pull up tightly, then sew with large plastic needle from beginning of ribbing to form toe. Fold cast one edge in half and sew inside seam for center back. Make 2 pom-poms and tie to each front side tightly and knot to inside of slipper or decoration of your choice, buttons, ribbons etc.

Please join The Pink Slipper Project today! Help them warm the hearts and toes of women and children in need. You will be helping make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

'Pink Bubbles' Scarf

As Knitting Galore is 'Going Pink In October' Breast Cancer Awareness Month I chose a pink multi yarn to knit this scarf.
Get ready for colder weather with a scarf that's bold and stylish! Allow me to present this funky 'Pink Bubbles' Scarf created with straight knitting needles (and a little attitude).
Don't you love the great texture? This is a skinny scarf of 'bubbles' that are created by increasing and decreasing at regular intervals, approx 2” wide at widest point and the side edges curl under.The tassels are encased within the first and last bubble.

MATERIALS

100gm Aran type yarn
Straight knitting needles, size 9 (5.50 mm) OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE

GAUGE
18 sts = 4”;  22 rows = 4” in St st

PATTERN STITCH

Row 1 (RS):  * K3 tog, rep from * across – 10 sts.
Row 2:  Purl.
Row 3:  Knit.
Row 4:  Purl.
Row 5:  * K in front, back, then front of next st, rep from * across – 30 sts.
Row 6:  Purl.
Row 7:  Knit.
Row 8:  Purl.
Rep these 8 rows for Pat St.
SCARF

With straight needles, cast on 30 sts. 
 Work even in St st for 4 rows, end on WS. 
 Work even in Pat St until piece measures approximately 54” from beg, end on Row 8. 
 Bind off.

FINISHING

Sew side edges of cast-on end of scarf tog up to second narrow stripe.  Repeat on bound-off end.

Tassels (Make 2):  Cut eighty 8” long strands of yarn and two 16” long strands.  Put shorter strands tog and tie in the center with one longer strand.  Thread ends of long strand into tapestry needle; insert ends into cast-on end of scarf and through second narrow stripe from the inside out.  Pull tassel into sewn end of scarf so that cast-on end of scarf fits down over top of tassel.  Wrap ends of strand in tapestry needle around scarf several times and fasten off securely.  Pull end of scarf down over top of tassel as far as possible.  Wrap second 16” long strand around first narrow stripe tightly and fasten off securely.  The cast-on end of scarf will roll back slightly giving the appearance of a ruffled edge.  Repeat on the bound-off end of scarf with second tassel.

A lot of new knitters start their knitting careers by knitting scarves as they are easy to knit and provide an excellent project to practice their knitting techniques on. Knitting this scarf will not only give you the perfect opportunity to gain knitting experience but you'll have a stylish fashion accessory too. A scarf has the dual benefit of both shielding you against extreme weather conditions, as well as giving you that added sparkle.

Knitting Galore's Going Pink For October

This is my first blog as part of the Ultimate Blog Challenge - a blog post every day of the month October.

Today is the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month celebrating 26years of Awareness, Education and Empowerment. Over the next four weeks much of the knitting in my blog will be in pink  to Show support to those suffering from , and in rememberance of those who lost the fight to breast cancer. It’s a sad fact that most of us know someone that is or has been affected by breast cancer. Every year 50,000 people in the UK alone hear the devastating words ‘You have breast cancer.' Please take charge of your own breast health by practicing regular self-breast exams to identify any changes and schedule regular visits and annual mammograms with your healthcare provider. Nobody knows your breast like you do so you are the best person to notice any changes and being breast aware is easy.Just follow the 5 point code: 1.Know what is normal for you. 2.Know what to look and feel for. 3. look and feel. 4.Report anychanges to you GP immediately. 5. Attend routine breast screening if you are aged 50 or over.

The pink ribbon is an international symbol of breast cancer awareness and the colour pink in general, espcially when worn throughout the month of October, expresses moral support for women with breast cancer. When you think of the colour pink most think feminine,it brings to mind mind  traditional feminine roles, of caring for other people, being beautiful,  being good and the pink ribbon it's self represents a fear of breast cancer, hope for the future,the charitable goodness of people and businesses who publicly support the breast cancer movement. It is intended to evoke solidarity with women who currently have breast cancer.The first time a pink ribbon  was used in connection with breast cancer awareness was in  1991, when the Susan G. Komen Foundation handed out pink ribbons to participants in its New York City race for breast cancer survivors. The pink ribbon was adopted as the official symbol of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month the year after, in 1992 and  was derived from the popular red ribbon for AIDS awareness.

 A pink and blue ribbon is sometimes used to symbolise breast cancer in men, which is relatively rare. The pink and blue ribbon was designed in 1996  to bring awareness that "Men Get Breast Cancer Too!"

As i said earlier most of knitting featured in my blog during this month will be knitted in the colour pink and apart from sharing with you a variety of knitting patterns hopefully i will give you some ideas you can use on  Wear it Pink day which is Friday 26th October 2012 to wear in honour of those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

There are so many beautiful yarns in many many shades of pink on the market and i will using just a few.

Happy knitting! and for this month Go Pink!

Sweet Lace Baby Dress

This is the sweetest little dress, with a lacy skirt. Its simple and delicate shape will look gorgeous on your favorite little princess it will keep her both warm and fashionable.This adorable baby dress is perfect for parties, holidays, and other special occasions as well casual everyday .

You will Need:
Cotton 4PLY 100g 2 balls
1 pair each 3.25mm (UK 10) (US 3) and 2.75mm (UK 12) (US 2)
Knitting Needles
Size: (shown)
Newborn  - actual size at underarm = 38cm (15ins), Length approx 30cm  (12ins)


NEW SIZES ADDED ( 3mnths, 6mnths, 9mnths, 12mnths, 18mnths.)
actual sizes at underarm :
3 months = 43cm (17ins), length 34cm (13.5ins)
6 months = 49cm (19.5ins), length  38cm (15ins)
9 months = 51cm ( 20 ins), length 43cm ( 17ins)
12 months = 55cm (21.5ins), length 48cm (19ins)
18 months = 58cm (23ins), length  50cm (19.5)

Tension
28 sts and 36 rows to 10 cm over stocking st, using 3.25mm needles.
Please check your tension carefully. If less sts use smaller needles,
if more sts use bigger needles.

DRESS
BACK
Using 2.75mm Needles  cast on 71 sts.(81,91,91,101,111)
1st row (right side) - K1, * P1, K1, rep from * to end.
Rep 1st row for moss st 7 times ... 8 rows moss st in all.
Change to 3.25mm Needles and beg lace patt.
1st row (right side) - Knit.
2nd row - Purl.
3rd row - K3, * K2tog, yfwd, K1, yfwd, sl 1 knitways, K1, psso, K5,
rep from * to last 8 sts, K2tog, yfwd, K1, yfwd, sl 1 knitways, K1,
psso, K3.
4th row - Purl.
5th row - Knit.
6th row - Purl.
7th row - K1, * yfwd, sl 1 knitways, K1, psso, K5, K2tog, yfwd, K1,
rep from * to end.
8th row - Purl.
Rows 1 to 8 incl form lace patt.
Cont in lace patt until work measures approx 17 cm (20,23,27,32,33)
from beg, ending with a 4th or 8th patt row.
Next row - K4,(5,6,7,7,1) K2tog, * K2,(2,2,3,2,2,) K2tog, rep from * to last 5 sts,(6,7,7,8,0) K5 (6,7,7,8,0)  ... 55 sts.(63,71,75,79,83)
Next row - Purl.
Change to 2.75mm Needles.
knit 3 rows garter st.
Ribbonhole row (wrong side) - * P2tog, yrn, rep from * to last st, P1.
Knit 2 rows garter st.
Change to 3.25mm Needles. 
work 2 rows stocking st.
Beg yoke patt - 1st row (right side) - K1, * P1, K3, rep from * to last 2 sts, P1, K1.
2nd row - Purl.
3rd row - * K3, P1, rep from * to last 3 sts, K3.
4th row - Purl.
Rows 1 to 4 incl form yoke patt for remainder.
Keeping patt correct
SHAPE ARMHOLES
 cast off 2 sts (2,3,3,3,4) at beg of next 2 rows ... 51 sts.(59,65,69,73,75)
Dec one st at each end of next row, then in every foll alt row until 47sts rem. (55,61,63,67,69)
Cont without shaping until armhole measures 5 cm, (6,6,7,7,8cm)
working last row on wrong side. **

DIVIDE FOR BACK OPENING
Next row - Patt 23, (27,30,31,33,34), turn.
Cont in patt on these 23 sts (27,30,31,33,34) until armhole measures 10 cm, (11,12,13,13,14) working last row on wrong side.

SHAPE SHOULDER
Cast off 4 sts (5,5,6,6,6,) at beg of next row and foll alt row.
Work 1 row.
Cast off 3 sts (4,6,5,7,7,) at beg of next row.
Work 1 row.
Leave rem 12sts (13,14,14,14,15) on a stitch holder. 

With right side facing, join yarn to rem sts, K2tog, patt to end.
Cont in patt on these 23 sts (27,30,31,33,34) until armhole measures 10 cm,(11,12,13,13,14) working last row on wrong side.
Work 1 row.

SHAPE SHOULDER
Cast off 4sts (5,5,6,6,6) at beg of next row and foll alt row.
Work 1 row.
Cast off 3 sts (4,6,5,7,7) at beg of next row.
Leave rem 12 sts (13,14,14,14,15) on a stitch holder.



FRONT

Work as for Back to **.

SHAPE NECK
Next row - Patt 16, (20,23,24,26,27) turn.
*** Cont on these 16 (20,23,24,26,27) sts.
Dec one st at neck edge in every row until 14 (16,21,22,24,23) sts rem, then in every foll alt row until 11 sts (14,16,17,19,19) rem.
Cont in patt without shaping until armhole measures same as Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending with same patt row.

SHAPE SHOULDER
Cast off 4 sts (5,5,6,6,6) at beg of next row and foll alt row.
Work 1 row.
Cast off rem 3 sts.(4,6,5,7,7) ***
Slip next 15 sts ( onto a stitch holder and leave.
With right side facing, join yarn to rem sts and patt to end.
Rep from *** to ***, working 1 row more before shoulder
shaping.


SLEEVES
Using 2.75mm Needles  cast on 47 sts (51,55,59,59,63).
Work 8 rows moss st as for lower band of Back.
Change to 3.25mm Needles and beg patt.
work 2 rows stocking st.
Work 2 rows yoke patt as for Back.
SHAPE TOP
Keeping patt correct, cast off 2 sts at beg of next 2 rows  43 sts (47,51,55,55,59).
Dec one st at each end of next row, then in every foll alt row until 21 sts (25,25,33,33,33) rem,
then in every row until 11 sts ( rem.
Cast off.


Neckband
Join shoulder seams. With right side facing, using 2.75mm
Needles knit across sts from left back stitch holder, knit up 14 sts (14,16,16,16,16) evenly along left side of neck, knit across sts from front stitch holder,
knit up 14 sts (14,16,16,16,16) evenly along right side of neck, then knit across sts from right back stitch holder  67sts (69,75,75,75,77).
Work 7 rows moss st as for lower band of Back.
Cast off in moss st.

BACK OPENING EDGING
With right side facing, using 2.75mm Needles knit up 37 sts (37,43,43,43,43) evenly along back opening and side edges of neckband.
Next row - Knit. Cast off knitways.
MAKE UP
Join side and sleeve seams. Sew in sleeves. make 1
buttonloop and attach  to top right side edge of neckband at
back neck opening. Sew on button to correspond with buttonloop. Sew in all ends. Thread
ribbon or cord through ribbonhole at waist, beg and ending at centre front. Draw up and tie in a bow.
Personalise this dress by using the colour of your choice and a special ribbon.

Adult Headband / Ear Warmer

This headband will keep your ears warm when the outside temperature starts to drop. You can also adapt these instructions to make a lighter, thinner headband that can be worn in warm weather to hold your hair off your face. This pattern is suitable for novice knitters, takes very little time to make (within an hour, you can have a beautiful headband completed) and, again a good use of leftover yarn as it uses very little.  Headbands make wonderful gifts or party favors for girls.

You will need:
1 Ball boucle or aran type yarn
4mm needles
Cast on 80sts
Work 4 rows k2, p2 rib
With right side facing
Row 5: knit
Row 6: purl to last 5 sts, turn
Row 7: knit to last 5 sts, turn
Row 8: Purl to last 7 sts, turn
Row 9: knit to last 7 sts, turn
Row 10: purl to last 9 sts, turn
Row 11: knit to last 9 sts, turn
Row 12: purl to last 11 sts, turn
Row 13: knit to last 11 sts, turn
Row 14: purl to last 9 sts, turn
Row 15: knit to last 9 sts, turn
Row 16: purl to last 7 sts, turn
Row 17: knit to last 7 sts, turn
Row 18: purl to last 5 sts, turn
Row 19: knit to last 5 sts, turn
Row 20: purl
Row 21: knit

Work 4 rows k2,p2 rib
Cast off.
Stitch sides together.

Bow
Cast on 15 sts work in stockinette stich until measures 8 iches.
Cast off.
Sew cast on edge and cast off edge together.
Wrap yarn around centre to create bow shape and sew to smallest part of band.

Alternatively, you can make knit or crochet flowers For Flower pattern see 'No green Thumb Required' post on this blog.


If you want something more decorative, you can change yarns either randomly or in a more structured pattern for a striped band. You could also try some new styles of knitting, such as this lace stitch. You can also do embroidery stitches to decorate.
This was knitted in pink as this month is Breast cancer Awareness Month.

Winter Fashion Statement - The Beret

The origin of the beret can be traced back to the Basques, (people living on both the French and Spanish sides of the Pyrenees Mountains). The original Basque beret was either navy blue or red, but today the beret is available in a wide array of colors. The beret fits snugly around the head, and can be "shaped" in a variety of ways – it is commonly worn pushed to one side (local custom usually prescribes which, but there is no universal rule) and can be worn by both men and women. Few items of clothing have been adopted by so many varied groups of people, living in different periods of history, as the beret. During World War II, the French Resistance movement, the Maquis, wore the Basque beret and because it was the most common French headwear, the Maquis was able to wear it without bringing undue suspicion to this covert operation.
The beret was then taken up by special forces, often with the suggestion of ‘undress’ uniform, such as USA Green Berets, Black Berets (USA Rangers), UN Blue Berets, Turkish Red Berets to name but a few.

Che Guevara, a hero of the Cuban revolution, made the beret a worldwide symbol of the revolutionary guerilla fighter. The Guardian Angels, a vigilante group who patrols the subways and streets of some of the world’s major cities, wear red berets. In fashion the beret is part of the popular stereotype of intellectuals, film directors, artists (particularly painters), hipsters, bohemians and beatniks. The Rastafari movement often wear a knitted or crocheted black beret with red, gold, and green circles atop their dreadlocks. They consider the beret and dreadlocks to be symbols of the biblical covenant of God with his chosen people, the black Israelites. The circular flat shape of the wool, felt or cotton beret can be sporty when worn close to the head facing forward or jaunty when tipped to the side; when pulled down to cover all or part of the forehead, it is more dramatic. Inexpensive and hardy, berets are available in a range of style variations, colors, and sizes.

If you want to get ahead in the style stakes this winter, then don't get a hat, get a beret! Berets are big hits this season. Recently, a long line of celebrity A-listers have been seen sporting a beret, from Beyoncé, Sienna Miller, Cameron Diaz, Rhianna, Fergie, Madonna to Kylie Minogue.


choosing how to wear it is very much a matter of taste. Experiment with jaunty angles and if it feels right for you, then go for it!
The best thing about wearing a beret, apart from giving the impression that you have a sense of fun, is that it suits most face shapes and transcends all age groups.

I chose a soft boucle type yarn in a Pale Rose Pink shade as October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and this is a great way to show your support.

Beret:
Tension 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm (4ins) Size 5mm needles.

Abbreviations;
K - Knit
P - Purl
M1 - Make one extra stitch by knitting front and back of the stitch
K2tog - Knit 2 stitches together


Cast on 82 sts.
Work 4 rows in (K2. P2) ribbing  inc 3 sts evenly across last row. 85 sts.
Proceed as follows:

1st row: (RS). Knit.
2nd and alt rows: Purl.
3rd row: K1. (M1. K14) 6 times. 91 sts.
5th row: K1. (M1. K15) 6 times. 97 sts.
7th row: K1. (M1. K16) 6 times. 103 sts.
Cont in this manner, inc 6 sts as before on every alt row until there are 115 sts.
Work 4 rows even in stocking st.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K17) 6 times. 109 sts.
Next and every alt row: Purl.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K16) 6 times. 103 sts.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K15) 6 times. 97 sts.
Cont in this manner, dec 6 sts as before on every alt row to 31 sts. Purl 1 row.
Next row: K1. (K2tog. K3) 6 times. 26 sts.
Break yarn leaving a long end. Thread yarn through rem sts. Draw up tightly and fasten securely. Sew back seam.

The main hat trend of this season is a beret. I guess berets will always be in fashion. They can become narrower or wider but they are invariably popular among women all over the world.

Easy Knit Fingerless Gloves

This is one easy knit fingerless glove pattern and will only take you a couple hours to finish. A good Project for a beginner, they work up quickly so they are a lovely idea for a last minute gift. In the winter, you always want to keep your hands warm but wearing normal gloves makes it difficult to use your fingers. With this simple knit, you can keep your hands warm and still search through your purse easily.When it's cold, knitted fingerless gloves can be perfect for wearing around the house, particularly for those with poor circulation in the hands. These gloves will keep your hands toasty while allowing you to do everything from using a keyboard to reading a book or doing housework. If you want to save on heating bills, fingerless gloves can make a house that is a degree or two cooler feel as cozy as if you bumped up the thermostat.
Aside from the many practical uses, fingerless gloves are also worn as a fashion statement. Goth, rock, and to a lesser extent hip hop or rap enthusiasts sometimes wear fingerless gloves for their tough, rebellious look. Punk rocker Billy Idol is probably best known for making fingerless gloves a fashion statement in the 1980s, when he performed hard-hitting punk anthems like, White wedding and Rebel Yell sporting classic black leather fingerless gloves.

 These are knitted on Straight knitting needles size 4mm usng a worsted  weight type yarn which is a medium width smooth yarn. This type of  yarn is very popular with novice knitters since it is easy to work with, and knitters can follow their stitches and patterns very easily with worsted weight yarn. It also yields smooth, warm products with a hefty feel to them.

 Instructions:

Cast on 36 stitches
k2,p2 ribbing for 3 inches.
Next row is a knit row, increase 4 stitches evenly, (40sts).
Purl one row
Knit one row.
Thumb increase: purl 18 stitches, in the next stitch purl in the back and front ( increase), purl 2, purl in back and front of next st, purl 18 stitches.
knit 1 row,
purl 1 row,
knit 1 row
2nd increase= purl 18 st. purl back and front of next st, purl 4 stitches, purl back and front of next st  purl 18 stitches.
 knit 1 row,
purl 1 row,
knit 1 row
3rd increase= purl 18 stitches, increase one in the next as above, purl 6 stitches, increase one, purl 18 stitches.
knit 1 row,
purl 1 row,
knit 1 row
4th increase= purl 18 stitches, increase one in the next stitch, purl 8 stitches, increase one, purl 18 stitches.
knit 1 row,
purl 1 row,
knit 1 row
5th increase= purl 18 stitches, increase one, purl 10 stitches, increase one, purl 18 stitches.
knit 1 row ,
purl 1 row.
knit18 stitches and put them on a holder,
knit 14 stitches and leave them on the needle,
place remaining 18 stitches on a second holder.
work the thumb= purl 1 row, knit 1 row and purl 1 row, then work k2,p2 ribbing for 4 rows. bind them off.
pick up and 18 stitches from 1st holding needle, purl 1 row, knit 1 row, purl 1 row. k2, p2 ribbing for 4 rows. bind off.
Pick up  18 stitches from second holding needle. Knit 1 row, purl 1 row, knit 1 row, purl 1 row. K2, p2 ribbing for 4 rows. bind off. sew seams together using your preferred method.                                                                                        

I chose to knit these in a pale pink as October is Breast awareness month . These are a great way to Show your support.

'Pink Bubbles' Scarf

Get ready for colder weather with a scarf that's bold and stylish! Allow me to present this funky 'Pink Bubbles' Scarf created with straight knitting needles (and a little attitude).
Don't you love the great texture? The bright and warm colour also helps to make this beauty perfect for the autumn.This is a skinny scarf of 'bubbles' that are created by increasing and decreasing at regular intervals, approx 2” wide at widest point and the side edges curl under.The tassels are encased within the first and last bubble.

MATERIALS

100gm Aran type yarn
Straight knitting needles, size 9 (5.50 mm) OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE

GAUGE
18 sts = 4”;  22 rows = 4” in St st

PATTERN STITCH

Row 1 (RS):  * K3 tog, rep from * across – 10 sts.
Row 2:  Purl.
Row 3:  Knit.
Row 4:  Purl.
Row 5:  * K in front, back, then front of next st, rep from * across – 30 sts.
Row 6:  Purl.
Row 7:  Knit.
Row 8:  Purl.
Rep these 8 rows for Pat St.
SCARF

With straight needles, cast on 30 sts. 
 Work even in St st for 4 rows, end on WS. 
 Work even in Pat St until piece measures approximately 54” from beg, end on Row 8. 
 Bind off.

FINISHING

Sew side edges of cast-on end of scarf tog up to second narrow stripe.  Repeat on bound-off end.

Tassels (Make 2):  Cut eighty 8” long strands of yarn and two 16” long strands.  Put shorter strands tog and tie in the center with one longer strand.  Thread ends of long strand into tapestry needle; insert ends into cast-on end of scarf and through second narrow stripe from the inside out.  Pull tassel into sewn end of scarf so that cast-on end of scarf fits down over top of tassel.  Wrap ends of strand in tapestry needle around scarf several times and fasten off securely.  Pull end of scarf down over top of tassel as far as possible.  Wrap second 16” long strand around first narrow stripe tightly and fasten off securely.  The cast-on end of scarf will roll back slightly giving the appearance of a ruffled edge.  Repeat on the bound-off end of scarf with second tassel.

A lot of new knitters start their knitting careers by knitting scarves as they are easy to knit and provide an excellent project to practice their knitting techniques on. Knitting this scarf will not only give you the perfect opportunity to gain knitting experience but you'll have a stylish fashion accessory too. A scarf has the dual benefit of both shielding you against extreme weather conditions, as well as giving you that added sparkle.


As it's October Breast Cancer Awareness Month I chose a pink multi yarn to knit this scarf.