Gifties + Free Pattern Alert!

T’is the season, dear knitters and crocheters!

Now is generally the time the population tends to start freaking out about the holidays. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza, Festivus or Christmahanukwanza, it’s time to get crackin’ on those gifts. Just the mention of the Black Friday ads on TV get me twitchy about the shopping and wrapping I haven’t done.

Let’s not even mention those holiday cards.

In honor of the freak out you’ll no doubt be having soon if you haven’t finished your holiday  crafting (and who has possibly had time to finish everything by now?!) we offer you a free pattern. A tea cozy is a perfect gift for both male and female alike (just switch up your colorways). Throw in a teapot for extra cheer, maybe a tin of shortbread or fancy tea and you’ve got  gift that anyone would love! Taking just 1 hank of Be Sweet Magic Ball, this gift will knit up in no time. Find it on Ravelry here.

Cuddly Tea Cozy Pattern
Designed by Bardet Wardell

(Shown in Bollywood Magic Ball)

This pattern should fit all normal size tea pots. It measures about 9″ high and 22″ around, but is very flexible.  You will love the excitement of what yarn comes next as you knit …. and your recipient will love it as a gift!  It is hand washable in cold water.

Gauge: 15 stitches = 4″, 5 rows = 1″
1 Be Sweet Magic Ball
US 9 16″ circular needles
1 yard of ribbon for top
yarn sewing needle

Cast on 74 stitches.
Knit around in the circle being careful not to twist on the first row.
Knit the entire Magic Ball.
Finish by leaving loops (do not bind off) and tying off end of yarn.
Thread ribbon through loops, pull tight and make a big happy bow!

Have fun and BE SWEET!

For some other gift inspiration, dear readers, I came across these super cute holiday ornaments from our friends at West Elm:

 

all ornament pics © West Elm

 

If West Elm can make these adorable hand made ornaments, what’s stopping you?

Grab some felted scraps and get crafting! You can also find dozens and dozens of free ornament patterns on Ravelry. There’s nothing quite like a handmade holiday with cut out snowflakes taped to your windows, cranberries and popcorn strung on kitchen twine gracefully looped around your tree or origami cranes adorning your holiday table.

Get creative! Grab your kids, your spouse, your significant other or whomever and make it a family affair! The families that craft together, stay together!