Father’s Day can be a tough holiday if the dad you’re shopping for doesn’t fit in the cliche categories of outdoor cook, golfer, tie wearer.
But the good news is that knitters can make whatever they want to suit the taste of whoever they’re knitting for. Here are a few ideas you still have time to knit.
Washcloths
There are a couple of specifically Father’s Day themed washcloths on Ravelry, including one by Leah Porter and another from Kris Knits. These are a great choice with a nice bar of soap or some fun grooming tools.
Or search “geek washcloth” for a bunch (more than 42!) ideas for fans of superheroes, Doctor Who and video games.
Ties
It’s a cliche for a reason, but for guys who wear ties it’s kind of fun for them to get to wear a bit of knitting. My Garter Stitch Tie is really easy and I like the rustic look for summer. (I have more Father’s Day ideas over at About, too.)
Also check out the Family Ties Skinny Tie from Yarnspirations, Alli Hobbs’ Easy Peasy Bow Tie and Kate Hudson’s Moss Stitch Tie. All of these are quick, easy and great for guys who wear ties.
Golf Club Covers
Lots of guys really do play golf, and if you know one who does, whip up some of Vickie Howell’s Clubbed covers. There are many other options but I also like the Spiral Rib Golf Club Covers by Sarah Peasley, the Golf Club Covers with Initials (you can also use the numbers of the clubs) from Lion Brand (free registration required to download) and Those #@!*% Golf Club Covers from Sarah Wilson, which show the frustration a lot of golfers feel on the course.
Other Ideas
If dad’s a fan of coffee, knit up a coffee cup cozy and give him a new mug or a pound of his favorite brew. The same works if he prefers a different kind of brew (like beer).
You can find lots of patterns for cozies on Ravelry or by doing a web search, but I also have the two-color coffee cup cozy, which is lots of fun to knit and a great way to show off team colors. And this totally simple bottle or can cozy takes almost no time and is a great stash buster.
Are you knitting for dad or another man in your life? I’d love to know what you’re planning!
Did you know Father’s Day was founded in Washington in 1910 by Sonora Smart Dodd, Its first celebration was in the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910. Her father, the Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, was a single parent who raised his six children there and the day was created to honour him and it’s achievements as a single father.
While Mother’s Day has been a national holiday since 1914, Father’s Day wouldn’t get the same legal status until more than half a century later. In the 1920s there was a national revolt and people wanted to get rid of both Mother’s and Father’s Day and replace them with a “Parent’s Day.” Others saw it as “Hallmark” holiday invented for the sole purpose of a commercial gimmick which I think we can all agree was a concern that has now become a reality. So what does Father’s day mean to you? Do you celebrate your Father all year around?
