Knitting Projects to Make Now for Gifting Later

It is unbelievable to me that summer is almost over, but as soon as school starts, thinking about the holidays begins.

At least that’s the way it should be if you’re a knitter (or any other type of crafter, I suppose) who intends to make and gift anything for the holidays.

Because as much as we all have good intentions, it’s best to back those intentions up by starting early.

But don’t get cocky just because you’re starting your holiday knitting in August. It’s still a great plan to choose small, easy-to-complete projects, because things happen. And the people you’re gifting will probably be just as grateful for a knit hat as they would a knit sweater.

Maybe even more so.

To get you started, check out this list of projects from Lion Brand Yarn geared toward knitters and crocheters who are planners. You’ll find hats, mittens, scarves and cowls, all of which have a feminine look but a couple of which could be stitched up for guys as well. For instance, the Modern Garter Knit Hat, pictured above.

Are you thinking holiday knitting already? I’d love to know what your plans are!

[Photo: Lion Brand Yarn.]

While no one would likely use a knit backpack for school, knitting a backpack is a fun way to show off your knitting skills and carry around your project or everyday essentials instead of using a purse. Check out these cute backpack knitting patterns and stitch one up for your next project.

I couldn’t resist sharing this adorable bunny backpack (you can also make it without the ears) that is made on a circular knitting machine. This pattern is from Orange Olive Road and you can use a 46 or 48 needle machine for the bag but will also need a 22 needle machine if you opt for the bunny version.

If you prefer knitting by hand, check out the bucket bag pattern from WoolFans Knitting. This one calls for super bulky yarn in two or three colors (you could make it all in one color, too, if you’d rather) and it looks like the base is knit flat and then the sides are worked in the round.

You know I love a stashbuster, and that’s what you get with the Whidbey Bag from Wool and Pine Designs. This one calls for DK weight yarn for the body of the bag, which is actually worked in a single color from the top down. The colorful bits are woven in after the knitting is done, allowing you to use up all sorts of odd balls quickly.

Adding hardware to a knit bag makes it look that much more interesting, and the combination of leather accents and a sari silk yarn makes Le Backpack from Vanrey Knits a lot of fun. This pattern is on Ravelry and uses a super bulky yarn and seed stitch for a ton of texture.

Mama in a Stitch has a great free pattern for a little backpack with a flap closure. This one is worked in worsted weight cotton yarn with two strands held together for extra stability. It starts with a flat base with the body worked in the round and a knit flap and I-cord straps.

Have you read?