Sometimes we want those challenging projects that push us out of our comfort zones and allow us to learn new skills and techniques. But sometimes we just need those relaxing, mindful projects that allow our minds and bodies to just go on auto-pilot for a bit (often I like to make sure I have both types of projects available, depending on my mood!).
With the Christmas and New Years holidays upon us this week, are you looking forward to hopefully squeezing in a little relaxing knitting time? If so, I thought I would share a few project ideas that are great for unwinding and relaxing.
Idea #1: Brightside Cowl
This simple, garter stitch cowl is actually knit like a scarf, working back and forth. The ends are attached at the very end using the three needle bind-off technique. So your knitting process is very straight-forward and you can use either straight knitting needles or a circular (working back and forth). It features 2 color, 2 row stripes so it makes a great project when you want to use up leftover or stash yarn (and if you’re new to working stripes, I have a video lesson for it).
The pattern is written for bulky-weight (I used Berroco Vintage Chunky), but on my tips page (link in pattern), I provide cast-on amounts should you want to use a different yarn-weight.
Pattern is $5 and is available here on Ravelry, Lovecrafts or here on my website.
Idea #2: Saturday Sleeves
These arm warmers are my go-to relaxing knitting project. They are most relaxing if you are already comfortable with working the magic loop method or using DPN’s – if you are, then the simple stockinette stitch arm warmers are the perfect “auto pilot knitting” project. They call for worsted-weight yarn (I used The Croft Aran by West Yorkshire Spinners) but any kind of worsted will work depending on how warm you want them.
Pattern is free! You can download a copy on Ravelry or here on my website.
Idea #3: Gray Street Cowl
My recently revamped Gray Street Cowl is another great relaxing knitting project because every round is worked the same, so you develop a nice rhythm. But it also features multi-colors so the color change keeps thing fun and interesting (although you can keep it 1 color if you prefer). It’s also written for 2 sizes – either a long, infinity-style or a short-style.
Pattern is $5 and is available here on Ravelry, Lovecrafts or here on my website.
Idea #4: New Canaan Cowl
My New Canaan Cowl is an infinity-style cowl that features a simple, 4-round stitch pattern that is made up of just knits and purls. So if you are looking for a project that is relaxing but that still has some kind of stitch pattern visual interest, then this may be right up your alley. The other added bonus is that it’s written for multiple yarn-weights, so it’s a great option for using up stash yarn. The blue version shown here follows the bulky-weight instruction and is knit up in Fluffy Mohair by Cowgirl Blues, whiles the light green version follows the sport-weight instructions and is knit up in Road to China Light by The Fibre Company
Pattern is $5 and is available here on Ravelry, Lovecrafts or here on my website.