Christmas Knitting

Quick update today. I've been knitting a ton recently and have a bunch of FOs to share.

The bag, Double Dumpling, is a pattern published in the fall 08 Interweave Knits magazine. The designer, Sharon Dreifuss of She-Knits sells kits. I bought a couple of them to make gifts this season. They include all the yarn and supplies, including the magnetic snap and faux-wood rings needed to make the project. The pattern, made on size 13 needles, knits up quickly. I had fun with the embroidery vine, too, learning the chain stitch and french knots. I really like the rings on the strap - nice decorative touch. And the yarn, Lamb's Pride Bulky, has a nice organic lamb-y feel to it with little pieces of vegetation still stuck to the fibers. 

Who doesn't love an indulgent cup of coffee this time of year, especially with Starbucks and others offering seasonal favs like Gingerbread Lattes. I thought this knitting cup sleeve, pattern found here, would make a nice addition to a gift card. Using leftover yarn used on another project - 100% cashmere! - it is a luxurious quick-knit update to a present. 

My silly attempt at an artsy photo (above) is of the Tudora neckwarmer, a free Knitty pattern download. It's for my grandma who is turning 81 this year (I'm sure she doesn't read this - she doesn't even know how to use a mouse - so no surprises given away). It's made out of 100% cashmere - 'cause when you make it to 81 you deserve nothing but the best, right? -  by Classic Elite. The blue-green colorway is amazing and has a little tweed to it with flecks of mustard yellow and deep purple. So pretty. I think she will like it. If not, I'll take it back and wear it myself! The button is handmade and was ordered here. 

Finally, my crowned jewel, the Debbie Bliss Smock Coat is FINALLY finished. Olivia wore it to our Thanksgiving dinner and did a photo shoot with my sister in-law for our Christmas card, which was promptly ordered from Tiny Prints, which has the trendiest designed cards for the holidays. I would not recommend this pattern nor ever make it again - so much work invested. However, I am extremely happy with the finished product. 

What are you knitting/making for the holidays? Post your comments. Would love to read.