Hi everybody, I missed the post for Tuesday’s Tips yesterday as I was working late on a new TV show. I have been meaning to do a few posts ahead of time for occasions just like this, but I have been too busy for that too. Luckily though, I think things will settle down in a couple of days and I’ll have time to do that and keep things a little more consistent on here. Here’s to hoping. Since we are so close to the holidays, I am sure you are all busy too, finishing your holiday knit list. I know I sure am. Here are some tips for making your holidays a little better and getting a few last minute knits done as well. Hope you have a great hump day!<\/p>\n
Use an I-cord<\/strong> – About the simplest Christmas knit item I can think of is an I-cord. You can make one with absolutely any yarn you have (just use the appropriate needles) and use them for a variety of things. Two that jump to mind is stringing one like a garland along the mantle to hang socks and ornaments from. The other is simply wrapping a longer one around your tree like tinsel. Send me some ideas you use for your i-cords.<\/p>\n Use color<\/strong> – This time o the year is a great excuse to brighten up your knitting repertoire. You can use the traditional colors to brighten things up or just go crazy with any ones you like. Either way, it’s a great reason to try a color you haven’t used before.<\/p>\n Stocking experiments<\/strong> – Everybody needs a stocking and stockings are a great way to experiment with different techniques and textures – not to mention learning to do socks. You literally have tons of options, from learning to make two socks at once on one circular needle to learning the two handed woven fair isle technique for color stranding. Use chunky weight yarn that is easy care and just start.\u00a0 You can refer to the sock\u00a0 posts on here to get yourself going, but it will be easier because you’re using bigger needles and yarn. Even if you don’t know what it will look like in the end you’ll be glad you did!<\/p>\n Zip them up<\/strong> – I know it’s hard to finish projects before starting new ones, but there may be a way to make that a little easier. Get yourself about 5 – 10 Zip-Loc bags sized medium to large. Place a project that fits completely in each (except for the needles if you’re using straight ones). If you’re heading out the door, grab two of them. The idea is to work on smaller projects that you’ll get done quickly while you’re on the road. When you’re home, you can do the same thing, but you then have access to all f them. Knit on until it’s finished or you’re bored with it then grab another one and off you go. They make great stocking stuffers too!<\/p>\n Take note<\/strong> – It’s a great idea to have a notebook where you have notes on projects you’re made or are making. A scrapbook works great. This way, if you make alterations to a pattern or have an idea for a future one, you can jot it down quickly and always have one spot where you can refer to to see all your creative ideas. It also centralizes your “Area 51” and you’ll know how many UFO’s you have without having to go through your stash. This way you can decide which one to finish before you even pick it up! (This is a tip for the entire year, not just the holidays).<\/p>\n Personalize it<\/strong> – Adding a special touch to a Christmas gift can be as simple as personalizing a card. Do something creative like knit the letter of the person’s name that the card is for and affixing it on the front with some glue to make them feel special.<\/p>\n A little goes a long way<\/strong> – This bonus tip is just a reminder that a little thought goes a long way at this time of year. If you have the time to make a small scarf or even a dishcloth – any knitted or hand crafted item – it will definitely be appreciated by those in need. Check with your local charities to see what is in big demand. If you have a little more time on your hands, get a group of friends together and knit or crochet some squares together and make a blanket to give away. It’s definitely not too late to do something like this and it can always be used.<\/p>\n Every little (or big) thing you do will help to make the holidays special for yourself and others! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n Hugzzz \ud83d\ude0e<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Hi everybody, I missed the post for Tuesday’s Tips yesterday as I was working late on a new TV show. I have been meaning to do a few posts ahead of time for occasions just like this, but I have been too busy for that too. 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