Author: admin

Extraordinary Mandala Beanie – Crochet Pattern

Quick and Easy Hat Crochet Pattern

Mandala yarn crochet pattern

Crochet this versatile ribbed hat for a quick and easy project that really shows off the yarn. Wear the beanie slouchy or with the brim folded over for a fitted look.

*This post may contain affiliate links.  All opinions are my own. For more information on this, please see my policies page.

When designing, I usually follow an organic, yet predictable process.  I figure out a general idea of what I want to make, such as a beanie.  Then, I find the right yarn for the project, followed by the appropriately-sized needles or hook for the stitch pattern I’d like to use.  This is how the vast majority of my patterns are created. 

But, there is an exception to every rule.  So, sometimes, rather than starting with an idea for the “what” of the pattern, the yarn compels me to design.  You know how this works, right?  You find a gorgeous skein of yarn and you MUST HAVE IT!  You don’t know what you’re going to make with it, but you know it must be yours.  This happens to me more often than is good for my bank account, but I do love the spark that lights up my creativity when I see one of those gorgeous finds. Similarly, I sometimes stare at the unused skeins in my stash and think, “I really should use up some of this before I yarn shop again.” 

In either instance, it is the yarn that calls to me first, and the design idea comes from there. This is what happened to me when I started gathering up the fun colorways of Lion Brand’s Mandala yarn.  It started as the “Oh, fun colors! I must have them!” and ended with me looking at the skeins accumulated in my stash with the need to start making a dent in them. 

So, I knew I wanted to work with Mandala, and that was a solid jumping off point.  The thing with an ombre or variegated or otherwise funky yarn is that you don’t want to do too much and make the project too busy.  Sometimes, the beautiful colors of the yarn speak for themselves, and a simple pattern is best to show them off.  

That’s how I ended up with the Extraordinary Mandala Beanies.  I made both a knit version and a crochet version in a simple ribbed beanie style that can be worn slouchy or cuffed at the brim for a fitted look.  

Design Inspiration: The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

Crochet hat patterns mandala yarn

As far as fandom inspiration, I designed the pattern without one in mind, but when I read The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune, I loved the cover art so much, and it reminded me of the colorway Chimera so much that I decided to work them up to coordinate with this cool book cover, and bam, now we have a fandom tie-in.  

If you haven’t read The Extraordinaries, it is a super fun read.  It follows the main character, Nick, through his trials and tribulations as a teenager with a major crush on the real-life superhero Shadow Star and navigating life as a 16-year-old and all of the challenges inherent in that alone. 

  • You can get the book right here.
  • Get the kindle version here.
  • Snag the audiobook here:

goodreads

You can read my review of the book right here and follow me on Goodreads.

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop: Download it here.

You’ll love this easy pattern – it makes a great gift, and it looks fab in any colorway of Mandala or similar yarn. You’ll need to do front post double crochet and back post double crochet. If you need tutorials on this, visit here: front post and back post double crochet.

The Yarn

Lion Brand Mandala (I used the colorway Chimera), is a light weight (3) acrylic yarn. It is soft and cozy, while also being machine-washable.  There are SO MANY fun colorways from which to choose, and I honestly don’t know that I could choose a favorite. 

Get the yarn right here: Lion Brand Mandala

Slouchy beanie crochet pattern
Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.

The Pattern

  • Get the PDF file download, optimized for printing HERE
  • Pin it for later on Pinterest right HERE
  • Add it to your Ravelry faves HERE

Materials:

  • Lion Brand Mandala Yarn (Light Weight, #3), 1 Skein (I used less than half of the 590 yds)
  • H-8 (5.00 mm) hook (or size needed to obtain gauge)
  • Yarn needle
Crochet pattern fitted beanie

Abbreviations:

  • dc – double crochet
  • ch – chain
  • ss – slip stitch
  • fpdc – front post double crochet
  • bpdc – back post double crochet
  • hdc – half double crochet
  • hdc 2tog – half double crochet 2 stitches together

Gauge:

Approximately 20 stitches & 15 rows = 4″ in un-stretched ribbed stitch

Finished Size:

One size fits most adults.

Instructions:

Chain 74.

Round 1: Dc in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch across. Join with a ss (you’ll have a little gap at the bottom of this round where joined – you can sew this up with the tail from your slip knot later. (12 dc)

Round 2: Ch 2. (fpdc, bpdc) around. Join with ss.

Repeat Round 2 until the piece measures approximately 11” from the beginning.

Shape Crown

Decrease Round 1: Ch 1. (hdc 6, hdc 2tog) around. Join with ss. (63 hdc)

Decrease Round 2: Ch 1. (hdc 5, hdc 2tog) around. Join with ss. (54 hdc)

Decrease Round 3: Ch 1. (hdc 4, hdc 2 tog) around. Join with ss. (45 hdc)

Decrease Round 4: Ch 1. (hdc 3, hdc 2 tog) around. Join with ss. (36 hdc)

Finishing

Cut yarn, leaving a long tail (at least 12”). Cinch the top closed with the yarn needle and the tail of yarn.

Secure.

Weave in all loose ends.

That’s it! You have yourself an Extraordinary Mandala Beanie! Now go ahead and make one in each of your favorite colors!

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.
Beginner crochet hat patterns

Want More Crochet Patterns?

Check out my other knitting patterns right here.

Let’s Connect!

If you have any questions about the pattern, or you just want to talk fandoms or share your project photos (or even to request a fandom themed project), join me in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

If you make this project, share it with me on Instagram: @fandom.knitting.crochet and use #fandomknittingandcrochet

Extraordinary Mandala Beanie – Knitting Pattern

Quick and Easy Hat Knitting Pattern

Beginner hat knitting pattern

Knit this versatile ribbed hat for a quick and easy project that really shows off the yarn. Wear the beanie slouchy or with the brim folded over for a fitted look.

*This post may contain affiliate links.  All opinions are my own. For more information on this, please see my policies page.

When designing, I usually follow an organic, yet predictable process.  I figure out a general idea of what I want to make, such as a beanie.  Then, I find the right yarn for the project, followed by the appropriately-sized needles or hook for the stitch pattern I’d like to use.  This is how the vast majority of my patterns are created. 

But, there is an exception to every rule.  So, sometimes, rather than starting with an idea for the “what” of the pattern, the yarn compels me to design.  You know how this works, right?  You find a gorgeous skein of yarn and you MUST HAVE IT!  You don’t know what you’re going to make with it, but you know it must be yours.  This happens to me more often than is good for my bank account, but I do love the spark that lights up my creativity when I see one of those gorgeous finds. Similarly, I sometimes stare at the unused skeins in my stash and think, “I really should use up some of this before I yarn shop again.” 

In either instance, it is the yarn that calls to me first, and the design idea comes from there. This is what happened to me when I started gathering up the fun colorways of Lion Brand’s Mandala yarn.  It started as the “Oh, fun colors! I must have them!” and ended with me looking at the skeins accumulated in my stash with the need to start making a dent in them. 

So, I knew I wanted to work with Mandala, and that was a solid jumping off point.  The thing with an ombre or variegated or otherwise funky yarn is that you don’t want to do too much and make the project too busy.  Sometimes, the beautiful colors of the yarn speak for themselves, and a simple pattern is best to show them off.  

That’s how I ended up with the Extraordinary Mandala Beanies.  I made both a knit version and a crochet version in a simple ribbed beanie style that can be worn slouchy or cuffed at the brim for a fitted look.  

Design Inspiration: The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

Slouchy hat knitting pattern

As far as fandom inspiration, I designed the pattern without one in mind, but when I read The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune, I loved the cover art so much, and it reminded me of the colorway Chimera so much that I decided to work them up to coordinate with this cool book cover, and bam, now we have a fandom tie-in.  

If you haven’t read The Extraordinaries, it is a super fun read.  It follows the main character, Nick, through his trials and tribulations as a teenager with a major crush on the real-life superhero Shadow Star and navigating life as a 16-year-old and all of the challenges inherent in that alone. 

  • You can get the book right here.
  • Get the kindle version here.
  • Snag the audiobook here:

goodreads

You can read my review of the book right here and follow me on Goodreads.

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop: Download it here.

The Yarn

Lion Brand Mandala (I used the colorway Chimera), is a light weight (3) acrylic yarn. It is soft and cozy, while also being machine-washable.  There are SO MANY fun colorways from which to choose, and I honestly don’t know that I could choose a favorite. 

Get the yarn right here: Lion Brand Mandala

Patterns for mandala yarn
Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.

The Pattern

  • Get the PDF file download, optimized for printing HERE
  • Pin it for later on Pinterest right HERE
  • Add it to your Ravelry faves HERE

Materials:

  • Mandala Yarn (less than one 590-yd skein)
  • Size 4 16-inch circular knitting needles
  • Set of size 4 double pointed knitting needles
  • Yarn needle
Slouchy knit beanie hat pattern

Abbreviations:

  • st – stitch
  • K – Knit
  • P – Purl
  • K2tog – Knit 2 stitches together
  • P2tog – Purl 2 stitches together

Gauge:

Approximately 28 stitches & 26 rows = 4″ in un-stretched ribbed stitch

Finished Size:

One size fits most adults.

Instructions:

Cast on 96 sts. Join to work in the round.

Round 1: (K1, P1) around.

Repeat Round 1 until the piece measures approximately 11” from the beginning.

Shape Crown

*Switch to dpns when needed.

Round 1: [(K1, P1) 4x, K2tog, P2tog] around. (80 sts)

Round 2: [(K1, P1) 3x, K2tog, P2tog] around. (64 sts)

Round 3: [(K1, P1) 2x, K2tog, P2tog] around. (48 sts)

Round 4: (K1, P1, K2tog, P2tog) around. (36 sts)

Round 5: (K2tog, P2tog) around. (20 sts)

Round 6: (K2tog) around. (10 sts).

Finishing

Cut yarn, leaving a long tail. Draw through remaining stitches and secure. Weave in all loose ends.

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.
Fitted beanie hat pattern

Want More Knitting Patterns?

Check out my other knitting patterns right here.

Let’s Connect!

If you have any questions about the pattern, or you just want to talk fandoms or share your project photos (or even to request a fandom themed project), join me in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

If you make this project, share it with me on Instagram: @fandom.knitting.crochet and use #fandomknittingandcrochet

Tri-Dishcloth Knitting Patterns

Three Easy Knitting Patterns for Dishcloths

Free Dischcloth Knitting Patterns

Knit up this quick trio of textured dishcloths to spruce up your own kitchen or as a fantastic handmade gift. With only two skeins of cotton yarn and simple stitch patterns these knit up like magic!

*This post may contain affiliate links.  All opinions are my own. For more information on this, please see my policies page.

Design Inspiration: No Real Fandom Connection, But I Tried. 😉

Free knitting patterns for washcloths

So, if you are new to this blog, you should know that almost everything I design is fandom-inspired, in one way or another. That said, sometimes I just need new dishcloths, and there is no real fandom inspiration.

Most of my patterns have a very loose connection to the original book/movie/tv show/etc. from which they were inspired. With these dishcloths, they are just lovely, textured dishcloths. But…there are three of them, so I call them the Tri-Dishcloth patterns and styled the photos with my Unofficial Harry Potter Cookbook. So, I tried to “fandomize” them a little. 😉

For these dishcloths, I wanted function and beauty. So, I have paired neutral colors with lovely textured stitch patterns.

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop: Download it here.

The Yarn

The Tri-Dishcloth Knitting Patterns are made with worsted-weight (aka #4 or medium weight) cotton yarn. I used two colors of Yarnspirations Lily Sugar ‘n’ Cream yarn in Overcast and Soft Ecru. You can get them right here: Overcast and Soft Ecru.

Free knitting patterns for beginner dish cloths
Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.

The Pattern

  • Get the PDF file download, optimized for printing HERE
  • Pin it for later on Pinterest right HERE
  • Add it to your Ravelry faves HERE

Materials:

  • Lily Sugar ‘n Cream, 2 skeins (pictured in Overcast and Soft Ecru). Two skeins makes all three dishcloths.
  • Size 8 (5.0 mm) Knitting Needles
  • Yarn Needle

Dishcloth 1: (Overcast)

Knit Dishcloth Pattern

Abbreviations:

  • st – stitch
  • K – knit
  • Sl – slip
  • wyif – with yarn in front
  • P – purl

Gauge:

Approximately 15 sts & 14 rows = 4″ in garter stitch

Finished Size:

Approximately 10″ x 9″

Instructions:

Cast on 37 stitches. (I prefer to use long-tail cast-on).

Knit 4 Rows.

Row 5: K4 (Sl 1 wyif*, K1) across to last 3 sts. K3. (*NOTE: Move yarn to back of work after the slipped stitch so it is In place to knit.)

Row 6: K3, Purl to last 3 sts, K3.

Repeat Rows 5 & 6 until the piece measures approximately 8″ from the beginning.

NOTE: If you want more of a square, you can continue until the piece measures 9 inches.

Knit 4 Rows.

Bind off all stitches.

Cut yarn, weave in loose ends with the yarn needle.

Dishcloth 2: (Soft Ecru)

Easy washcloth knitting pattern

Abbreviations:

  • st – stitch
  • K – knit
  • P – purl

Gauge:

Approximately 15 sts & 20 rows = 4″ in seed stitch pattern

Finished Size:

Approximately 10″ x 9.25″

Instructions:

Cast on 37 stitches. (I prefer long-tail cast-on.)

Row 1: K1 (P1, K1) across

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: P1 (K1, P1) across

Row 4: Knit

Repeat Rows 1-4 until piece measures approximately 9″ from the beginning.

Bind off all stitches.

Cut yarn, secure, and weave In loose ends.

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.
Knitting Pattern Dishcloths

Dishcloth 3: (Overcast + Soft Ecru)

Free knit patterns for dishcloths

Abbreviations:

  • st – stitch
  • K – knit
  • P – purl
  • K1 below – Insert needle into the stitch directly below the next stitch facing to be worked. Knit as normal.

Gauge:

Approximately 12 sts & 18 rows = 4″ in stitch pattern

Finished Size:

Approximately 10″ x 9.25″

Instructions:

With Color A, cast on 35 stitches.

Row 1 (Right side): With A, knit across

Row 2: With A, knit across

Row 3: With B, K1 (K1 below, K1) across

Row 4: With B, knit across

Row 5: With A, K1 (K1, K1 below) to the last 2 sts. K2.

Row 6: With A, knit across.

Repeat Rows 3-6 until the piece measures approximately 9.5″ from the beginning.

Bind off all stitches.

Cut yarn, secure, and weave In loose ends.

Want More Knitting Patterns?

Check out my other knitting patterns right here.

Let’s Connect!

If you have any questions about the pattern, or you just want to talk fandoms or share your project photos (or even to request a fandom themed project), join me in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

If you make this project, share it with me on Instagram: @fandom.knitting.crochet

FKC Faves: 5 Best YA Book Series for Adult Readers

Best YA Book Series to Read

Book Recommendations: YA Books Series to Read (Even as an Adult)

“Young Adult,” or “YA” is a strange way to label a massive genre of literature.  I find it a little misleading, limiting, and just plain odd. As an intense lover of books – VARIOUS types of books – and someone with a Master’s in English Literature, I consider myself fairy “in the know” about books.  So, I feel confident in my ability to say that if you are an adult, and you don’t read books labeled YA because you feel that you are not their target audience and therefore wouldn’t like them, you are likely missing out. 

I don’t believe in “guilty pleasures.” As the magnificent Dave Grohl says, “I don’t believe in guilty pleasures. If you fucking like something, like it. … That whole guilty pleasure thing is full of fucking shit.”  You heard the man. Don’t be afraid to like what you like. I take that advice all the time, and that is what led me to start down the rabbit role of reading YA literature, particularly YA Fantasy. 

Why YA Books Are For You 

And, once I started, I really couldn’t stop.  I have discovered so many creative, fun, and truly badass writers. I tend to prefer female authors, and I love me a strong female character.  I’m also a sucker for a love story of some kind, though I typically like there to be some adventure thrown in, too. Most of all, I want to read solid characters – round, developed characters with some top-notch dialogue.  That is what really sells me – if I can feel invested in the characters, I can feel invested in the book. 

That said, here is my list of the 10 Best YA Book Series for Adult Readers.  Clearly, I have not read all the YA Series out there, so this list is not really the “best of all time,” more like “the best I’ve read lately.” I like a series, because once I attach to characters, I want to be with them for a while, so I’ve excluded stand-alone books. 

Will you love all of them? Probably not.   Am I missing some really amazing series on this list? I fully expect I am.  So, be sure to tell me what you think – what you’d add to the list, especially, in the comments.

(This post contains affiliate links. See my full disclosure policy here.)

What to read

A Note About Formats – Audiobook vs. Ebook vs. Physical Books

There may not be anything I love more than holding a physical book in my hand, turning over the pages, and breathing it in.  I LOVE books. Actual books – especially the well-worn, slightly musty kind.

That said, I was reluctant to ever read an ebook or listen to an audiobook. But, I’ve discovered that there is a place and time for all three format in my life, and I’m not a traitor to my paper and ink if I pop in my Air Pods or swipe through an ebook in a waiting room. 

I love the ability to read a physical book – I love the look and feel of them – I like to be surrounded by them.  But I also like the convenience of being able to read on the go with just my phone – on a plane or waiting for my kids at Ninja class. So, I also download ebooks.  

Similarly, I am a knitter, crocheter, walker and puzzler.  So, I listen to a lot of audiobooks. I love the ability to combine my love of reading and my other hobbies.  So I listen to plenty of audiobooks, too.  

So, you’ll see that in my recommendations below, I’m also liking to the ebooks and the audiobooks.  Give them a try. I promise, you will learn to love all three formats.  

Try Audible for Free

Pro tip – signing up for an Audible membership has been the best thing I’ve done in a long time.  I utilize the digital resources from my local libraries – and I mean, I really utilize the heck out of them – my holds shelves are always full, but sometimes I cannot wait the 19 Weeks or whatever to get the next book in a series.  So, while I love the fact that I can listen to audiobooks and read ebooks for free from the library, I also sometimes NEED to listen to the next book in a series before it’s available. So, I signed up for Audible and I really love it.  So, if you want to give Audible a try, they offer a free trial (which is how they got me), which you can sign up for right here: Audible Free Trial.

5 YA Book Recommendations 

  1. A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas

Books Included: A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight

What it is: A fantasy adventure with romance and a lot of style. Sort of a fairytale “retelling,” but quite a bit more than that. 

Why I liked it: Honestly, the main reason I enjoyed the first book was because I wasn’t sure how it was going to end.  I was anxious to see where the series was going to go. Also, there were some characters that really intrigued me, and they proved to be even more intriguing as the series progressed. The second and third books in the series were the best, by far.

Notable quote: “Pity those who don’t feel anything at all.” – Sarah J. Maas, A Court of Thorns and Roses

A Court of Thorns and Roses Box Set
  1. The Infernal Devices Series by Cassandra Clare

What it is:  A prequel series to the City of Bones series about Shadowhunters, those who fight dark forces in the world. Supernatural underworld, swoon-worthy characters – you get the point.

Why I liked it: In my opinion, this prequel series is better than the original books, mainly due to the Victorian Era London setting and the character development.

Notable quote: “Only the very weak-minded refuse to be influenced by literature and poetry.” – Cassandra Clare, Clockwork Angel

The Infernal Devices Box Set
  1. The Selection Series by Kiera Cass

What it is:  A dystopian, elegant “bachelor” style novel that somehow manages to pull you in and keep you engaged. It’s a mix between a reality competition and the hunger games – if the hunger games contestants didn’t kill one another and wore ball gowns.

Why I liked it: I honestly didn’t think I’d like this series, but I got reeled in. I am a sucker for a good love triangle (or square, or rhombus, or trapezoid). Class differences and political scheming add layers of depth, making it an overall engaging read.

Notable quote: “I should have known that if any girl was going to disobey an order, it would be you.”― Kiera Cass, The Selection

The Selection Series Box Set
  1. Red Queen Series by Victoria Aveyard

What it is: The series follows Mare Barrow, a badass female warrior in a dystopian society that is comprised of two classes: the silver-blooded rulers and the red-blooded oppressed.

Why I liked it: I got a lot of Hunger Games vibes from this book, but it did some different things, too. There were some morally ambiguous characters, which I always love. Similarly, the abilities/powers of the characters were more sci-fi and different from what I’ve seen before.

Notable quote: “The truth is what I make it. I could set this world on fire and call it rain.” ― Victoria Aveyard, Red Queen

Red Queen Box Set
  1. Simon Snow Series by Rainbow Rowell

What it is: The Simon Snow Series, at the time I’m writing this, is two books, Carry On and Wayward Son. The third book, Any Way the Wind Blows, is apparently in the works. The series is a fantasy series about magical beings, a la Harry Potter, with plenty of mystery, drama, romance and humor.

Why I liked it: The DIALOGUE! The INTERIOR MONOLOGUE! This book was not something I was sure I’d enjoy, but man, did Simon Snow convince me with his narration. And then I met Baz, and it was all downhill from there. The characters are so alive, entertaining, funny and lovable.

Notable quote: “You were the sun, and I was crashing into you. I’d wake up every morning and think, ‘This will end in flames.” ― Rainbow Rowell, Carry On

So, tell me – which of these are you looking forward to reading? What would you add to the list? Let me know in the comments! 

Book recommendations for adults

Let’s Connect! 

Want to see what I’m reading or, better yet, keep track of your own reading and get some spot-on recommendations? Head over to Goodreads! You can “friend” me right here: http://www.goodreads.com/jerisswanhorst.

Want to talk books, fandom, or crafts? Join me and a whole community of fandom-lovers in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

You should also hop over to the sidebar and subscribe to the newsletter to keep up to date on all the new patterns. 

Also, head over to Instagram and follow me to see the latest updates and @fandom.knitting.crochet.

Project 8: Fandom GAL

Nov. 11-24: Lush Life Blanket & Hermione’s Everyday Socks

Photos: Bernat Design Studio, Dreamsinfiber

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

It’s Time for Project 8 of the Gift-Along!

November has been whipping by at warp speed, and we are already into Project 8 of the Gift-Along! This is meant to be a 2-week project, but, if you’re in the same boat as I am, you might have to play catch-up and try to squeeze it in to less than that, which can absolutely be done. The two projects are lovely and will make stunning gifts!

Project 8: Crochet: Lush Life Blanket by Bernat Design Studio (Yarnspirations)

This one is soooo soft and cozy, crocheters! This blanket may require a bit of an investment in yarn, but it makes a truly lovely, soft, show-stopper of a gift.

Lush Life Blanket by Bernat Design Studio (Yarnspirations) – Photo courtesy of Berant Design Studio

The super bulky, soft blanket yarn, combined with the large-hook crochet stitches make such a squishy, comfy blanket. This one is sure to put a smile on the face of the lucky gift recipient!

  • Get the free pattern HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject8 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

Project 8: Knit: Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Lueder

If you are a knitter and follow Fandom Knitting & Crochet, you’ll probably know that these are my go-to socks. I LOVE them. The texture is lovely, they fit like a dream, and they have the slight fandom inspiration that I always enjoy.

So, pick your favorite sock yarn and dive in to these lovelies! I like to knit them two at a time to avoid the dreaded “second sock syndrome.”

Photo: Dreamsinfiber
  • Get the free pattern on Ravelry HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject8 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

I’m really looking forward to seeing all of your projects, so be sure to share, share, share in the Facebook group or on Instagram! Happy gifting!

Project 7: Fandom GAL

Nov. 4-10: Nifty Gifty Cowl & Gwen Stacy

Crochet Cowl Scarf and Gwen Stacy Hat Knitting Pattern
Photo credit for Gwen Stacy Hat: Hailey Knits.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

It’s Time for Project 7 of the Gift-Along!

Well, everyone, we’ve made it to November and Project 7 of our Gift-Along. If you’ve been with us from the beginning, you have 6 fantastic gifts at this point – wooohooo! If you are just jumping in, Project 7 works up quickly and makes a stunning gift in no time!

Project 7: Crochet: Nifty Gifty Cowl by Fandom Knitting & Crochet

Crocheters – you have a treat in store, if I do say so myself. Ha ha ha – this is my design, and it is suuuuuuper quick and easy. And, best of all, it makes a great gift for just about anyone on your list!

Crochet pattern for quick and easy cowl
Nifty Gifty Cowl

The texture is lovely on both the “outside” and the “inside,” so there are options for how to wear it. I end up making a bunch of these for last-minute gifts or quick gifts for teachers, gift exchanges, etc.

  • Get the pattern HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject7 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

Project 7: Knit: Gwen Stacy by Hailey Knits

There is just about nothing I love more than a lovely knitting pattern with fandom inspiration! Gwen Stacy by Hailey Knits is the perfect use of fandom and fiber arts!

Also, this hat is just really lovely. It may take a tad longer to knit up the a super-basic beanie, but the result is worth it!

Gwen Stacy Hat Knitting Pattern
Photo: Hailey Knits
  • Get the free pattern on Ravelry HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject7 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

I’m really looking forward to seeing all of your projects, so be sure to share, share, share in the Facebook group or on Instagram! Happy gifting!

Project 6: Fandom GAL

Oct. 7-27: Saffron: Our Mrs. Reynolds Shawl (Crochet) & Time Travel Shawl (Knit)

Outlander and Firefly Inspired Shawls
Photo Credits: KateWhitingDesigns and Cirsium Crochet

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

Welcome to Project 6 of the Gift Along!

Hey there Crafty Pals! Hard to believe it, but we are already on Project 6 of our Gift-Along. If you have been working along with us, you already have five fabulous gifts stashed away. If you are just joining us, now’s a great Project to jump in on – we are spending the next three weeks knitting or crocheting a lovely shawl. These are real show-stoppers, so someone is going to be a lucky recipient when you gift one of these.

Project 6: Crochet: Saffron (Our Mrs. Reynolds) Shawl by Cirsium Crochet

For Project 6 the crocheters have a stunningly gorgeous Firefly-inspired shawl, designed by Cirsium Crochet. The best part? It’s a FREE Ravelry download.

Photo: Cirsium Crochet

How gorgeous is this? Grab your favorite DK weight yarn and get stitching! I cannot wait to see your makes for this one!

  • Download the pattern HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject6 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

Project 6: Knit: Outlander Time Travel Shawl by Kate Whiting Designs

If you know me, you know one of my BIGGEST fandoms is Outlander. I love the books, I love the show, I love the knitwear! My designer friend Kate Whiting is makes the best Outlander-inspired patterns out there, and this one is inspired by an iconic look from the series.

As a bonus: Kate is offering a coupon code just for Gift-Alongers! Use the code Gift Along on Ravelry to snag this pattern for 20% off (this month only – October 2019).

Claire Outlander Shawl Knitting Pattern
Photo: Kate Whiting Designs
  • Use the code Gift Along to get 20% off the pattern on Ravelry HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject6 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

I’m really looking forward to seeing all of your projects, so be sure to share in the Facebook group or on Instagram! Happy gifting!

Project 5: Fandom GAL

Sept. 30-Oct. 6: Giant Amigurumi Alien Ragdoll (Crochet) & Wizard School Spirit Scarf (Knit)

Crochet Alien Stuffed Animal and Harry Potter Scarf
Photo credits: Osage County Crochet; Fandom Knitting + Crochet

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

Welcome to Project 5 of the Gift Along!

Hi Gift-Alongers! We are plugging away with our gift-making, and we are kicking off October with some super-fun, quick makes. If you have been working along with us, this will be the fifth gift to add to your pile (it feels gooood to make progress on gifts early, rights?). If you haven’t been gifting along, now’s a great time to hop in with this 1-week project.

Project 5: Crochet: Giant Amigurumi Alien Ragdoll Pattern by Osage County Crochet

For Project 5 the crocheters have a super fun design to work up, courtesy of my friend Sadie from Osage County Crochet.

Crochet Alien Pattern
Photo: Osage County Crochet

This giant alien is so fun and makes a cozy companion for anyone on your gift list!

And, as a bonus just for us Gift-Alongers, you can snag the pattern for only $1.oo! Just enter the code ALIEN in her Ravelry shop! Get the pattern here.

  • Download the pattern HERE, using the code ALIEN to get it for only $1.00.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject5 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

Project 5: Knit: Wizard School Spirit Scarf by Fandom Knitting & Crochet.

This is one of my latest designs, inspired by our favorite Wizard School Houses. It is a classic, long ribbed scarf made in any two colors of your choosing. It’s available for free on the blog right HERE, or you can get a print-friendly PDF download for a small fee at my Etsy shop right here: Get the pattern here.

Harry Potter Scarf Knitting Pattern

I’m really looking forward to seeing all of your projects, so be sure to share! Happy gifting!

Knitting Pattern – Wizard School Spirit Scarf

Easy Striped Knit Scarf Pattern

Easy knitting pattern for striped scarf

Whether heading out to the quidditch pitch, football stadium, or simply trudging to the library on a brisk day, this classic striped scarf is the perfect accessory.

*This post may contain affiliate links.  All opinions are my own. For more information on this, please see my policies page.

Design Inspiration: House Colors Scarves (HP)

Harry Potter Scarf Knitting Pattern

What better way to show off your wizard school spirit or your team pride than in a classic ribbed knit scarf? I designed this originally to be a companion to the Wizard School Spirit Beanie, but it can certainly be customized to any color scheme – so if you aren’t into wizards and witches, you can still rock one of these, no problem. They are also insanely gift-able, as they suit just about anyone, regardless of age, etc.

I love a classic design, so I went with a basic ribbing pattern and a few color changes for stripes. This pattern works up quickly and is totally beginner-friendly. What really makes it stand out is choosing a lovely yarn and color scheme.

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.

The Yarn

The Wizard School Spirit Scarf is made with worsted-weight (aka #4 or medium weight) yarn. I used two colors of Lion Brand Heartland yarn. What I love about this yarn is that it is suuuuuuper soft and squishy, and it comes in such gorgeous colors.

Hogwarts House Colors Yarns

The pictured scarf is in my house colors (from the books – blue and bronze). I used Lake Clark and Mammoth Cave (2 Above). For the other houses, I’d recommend using: Redwood and Yellowstone (1), Yellowstone and Black Canyon (4), and Kings Canyon and Mount Rainer (3).

You can get your Heartland yarn here.

Harry Potter Knitting Patterns
Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.

The Pattern

  • Get the PDF file download, optimized for printing HERE
  • Pin it for later on Pinterest right HERE
  • Add it to your Ravelry faves HERE

Materials:

  • Lion Brand Heartland Yarn in Main Color (A) and Contrast Color (B)
  • Size 11 Knitting Needles
  • Yarn Needle

Abbreviations:

  • R – Row
  • K – Knit
  • P – Purl
  • RS – Right Side
  • WS – Wrong Side

Gauge:

Gauge isn’t important for this project, but mine was: Approximately 16 stitches and 12 rows = 4″ in stockinette stitch

Finished Size:

Approximately 4″ wide x 76″ long

Get a printer-friendly, low cost PDF file of this pattern at my Etsy shop. Download it here.
Beginner scarf knitting pattern

Instructions:

Cast on 26 stitches.

R1 (Right Side): K2 (P2, K2) across.

R2 (Wrong Side): P2 (K2, P2) across.

Repeat Rows 1-2 until the piece measures approximately 8″ from the beginning, ending with a WS Row.

Stripe Rows

*Switch to color B*

Work R1 and R2 once each with Color B.

*Switch to color A*

Work R1 and R1 once each with Color A.

*Switch to color B*

Work R1 and R2 once each with Color B.

*Switch to color A*

Repeat this pattern of working 8″ with Color A and then adding the stripe rows as above. Continue in this pattern until the piece measures approximately 6.5 feet from the beginning (or desired length), ending with a 8-inch section of A.

Finishing

Bind off in ribbing.

Weave in all loose ends using the yarn needle.

That’s it! You have yourself a lovely Knit Wizard School Spirit Scarf! Now go ahead and make one in each house (or team) color.

Want More Knitting Patterns?

Check out my other knitting patterns right here.

Let’s Connect!

If you have any questions about the pattern, or you just want to talk fandoms or share your project photos (or even to request a fandom themed project), join me in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

If you make this project, share it with me on Instagram: @fandom.knitting.crochet

Project 4: 2019 Fandom GAL

September 9-22: Pumpkin King Kawaii Cuddler™ (Crochet) & Decorated Christmas Stocking (Knit)

Gift Along Knitting and Crochet Patterns
Decorated Christmas Stocking photo courtesy of Lion Brand Yarn & Pumpkin King Kawaii Cuddler™ photo courtesy of 3amgracedesigns

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

It’s Time for Project 4!

Hello there, Gift-alongers! We are getting downright festive up in here with the Project 4 Patterns. Project 4 is a 2-weeker (but I’m posting this a bit late, so it’s more like a week-and-a-halfer, for me at least). The knitting pattern is my go-to, absolute favorite Christmas Stocking, the Decorated Christmas Stocking from Lion Brand Yarn, and the crochet pattern is the oh-so-fabulous Pumpkin King Kawaii Cuddler™ from 3amgracedesigns. Both are free patterns.

Project 4: Crochet: Pumpkin King Kawaii Cuddler™ by 3amgracedesigns.

For Project 4, the crocheters are making this super-cool, fandom holiday icon!

Pumpkin King Cuddler
Photo: 3amgracedesigns

“What’s this? What’s this?” you ask? It’s the Pumpkin King all decked out with a Santa Hat, and it is a fun project that you can gift to a Pumpkin King fan or even just keep for yourself. Heck, if you get it done over these two weeks, you can put it out for Halloween and keep it out through Christmas!

  • Download the free pattern HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject3 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

Project 4: Knit: Decorated Christmas Socking by Lion Brand Yarn

Don’t let the bobbles intimidate you. They are super cute and not too bad once you get the hang of them. Don’t like bobbles? No problem! They are completely optional. In fact, I have made MANY of these stockings throughout the years, and I usually leave them off. I favor making the cuff, heel, and toes out of a contrasting color to the main stocking. Super easy and super cute!

Christmas Stocking
Photo: Lion Brand Yarn
  • Download the free pattern HERE.
  • Share your project progress photos/questions/finished photos with the hashtag: #FandomGAL #GALProject3 #FKCGAL on Facebook, in our Facebook Group or on Instagram. Be sure to tag @fandom.knitting.crochet on Insta! I’d love to repost some projects.

Share Your Gift-Along Progress

I’m really looking forward to seeing all of your projects, so be sure to share! Happy gifting!