Knitting

Free Patterns, Tutorials and Project Ideas

Book Review: Harry Potter Knitting Magic

by

This book has been in my house for a while and I’ve been super excited to share it with you but wanted to wait until it was officially out, which it is now.

Years ago there was an unofficial Harry Potter inspired knitting pattern book, which was great fun (in fact, I’m knitting a wizard robe for my daughter right now that’s a pattern from that book), but Harry Potter Knitting Magic by Tanis Gray is even better because it’s officially licensed so it includes pattern replicas of pieces used in the films as well as inspired by characters and objects in the movies.

The book is also scattered with pictures from the movies, concept drawings and behind-the-scenes facts that make it even more fun.

But of course we’re all about the knitting patterns here, and there are 27 in all in the following categories:

  • crafty creatures
  • wizarding wardrobe
  • inspired apparel
  • delightful decor

Patterns are ranked from one to five lightning bolts in skill level: four are one bolt, four are two, nine are three, six are four and four are five. They range from the classic Weasley sweaters and house scarves and cardigans to a Beauxbatons-inspired cape, a Cornish Pixie, fingerless mitts fit for dueling club, an Order of the Phoenix lace knit throw and more. Check out all the patterns on Ravelry.

I think my favorite is the Owl Post Pullover, designed by Joan Forgione, which starts with a fun cable panel worked flat and seamed, then stitches are picked up on both edges to form the rest of the sweater. It’s even got a little secret message stitched into the hem.

If you’re a fan of Harry Potter you’re definitely going to want to check this one out for knitting for all your favorite muggles.

About the book: 208 pages, hardcover, published 2020 by Insight Editions, retail price $39.99

Looking for more Harry Potter party ideas check these DIY ideas out.  Check out the Harry Potter Cookbook too for fun party food. We also have Harry Potter crafts over on our sister too, including owls, potions and even a mandrake.

 

Comments

  1. I pre-ordered and pick the book up today from my local independent book store. I paid $29.99; Amazon sells for $23.99. I plan on knitting several of the items: Mrs. Weasley’s Home-Knit Christmas Sweater, Hogwarts House Scarves, Hogwarts House Cardigans, Wizarding World Sweater, Owl Post Pullover, Order of the Phoenix Throw Blanket, and, my favorite, Wizarding Transportation Scarf.

Have you read?

Vintage Bed Socks Knitting Pattern – A Cozy Little Gift Project With Old-Fashioned Charm

There is something wonderfully nostalgic about a pair of handmade bed socks, isn’t there? They are practical, pretty, and just the sort of project that feels like it belongs beside a cup of tea, a good film, and a basket of wool that is pretending not to be overflowing.

This vintage Bed Socks knitting pattern is one of those sweet little patterns that still feels useful today. Originally from the Jaeger Hand-Knit Series No. 44, the design features a simple garter-stitch foot, a ribbed cuff, eyelet holes, a crochet chain tie, and little tassel-style pom-poms at the front. The original pattern even describes them as “a very acceptable present,” and honestly, I don’t think much has changed there.

These would make a lovely handmade gift for someone who is always cold, someone recovering or resting, or anyone who appreciates a bit of old-fashioned comfort. They would also be beautiful as a Mother’s Day gift, a winter birthday present, a Christmas stocking filler, or a “just because you deserve cozy feet” project.

The pattern itself is delightfully simple in construction. The socks are knitted flat, beginning at the lower edge, with the foot worked in garter stitch before moving into the ribbed upper section. The decorative eyelet row allows for a crochet chain cord to be threaded through, and the finishing tassels give the socks that charming vintage look. The top edge is finished with a row of double crochet, which adds a neat handmade touch.

The original measurements list the socks as approximately 10½ inches from the top to the lower edge of the heel, with a 9¾ inch foot length, and the pattern notes that the size can be adapted. As with many vintage knitting patterns, modern knitters will want to check gauge carefully and choose a soft yarn that feels comfortable against the skin. A cozy wool blend, soft acrylic, or washable yarn would all work depending on whether you are making these for everyday use or as a special gift.

I especially love that this pattern has that “giftable” quality without being a massive project. It is small enough to feel achievable, but still special enough that the finished pair looks thoughtful. And let’s be honest, handmade socks with pom-poms are always going to beat a last-minute candle from the supermarket.

The PDF version has been cleaned up and formatted for easier reading while keeping the original vintage design intact. It also includes a modern pink mockup image and the original vintage scan, so you get both the historical charm and a fresh idea of how the finished socks could look today.

If you enjoy vintage knitting patterns, cozy handmade gifts, or quick projects that feel useful rather than just decorative, this sweet little bed socks pattern is a lovely one to add to your collection.

You can find the Vintage Bed Socks Knitting Pattern PDF in the CraftGossip Etsy store.

For supplies, this is also a nice stash-friendly project. A soft yarn from Mary Maxim or Amazon would work well, and if you make pom-poms regularly, a small pom-pom maker is one of those inexpensive tools that saves a surprising amount of fiddling.