GoKnits Pouch: A Knitting Bag That Goes Everywhere

Just arrived! The GoKnits Pouch - this handy little knitting bag allows you to knit anywhere and everywhere while keeping your yarn neat, clean and tangle free. It's made of durable rip stop nylon and is machine washable. Available in lots of fun colors, there's a perfect shade for every knitter. Use the GoKnits Pouch for your small projects such as hats, mittens, socks, baby items, and more. Want to know more about the GoKnits Pouch?
Watch a How to Use the GoKnits Pouch from designer, Jennifer Lippman-Bruno

Hi, it's Nancy Queen again from NobleKnits and we are here with Jennifer Lippman-Bruno from KnowKnits and she is going to tell us about the KnowKnits bags. So, Jennifer, what can we do with this little bag? "With the GoKnit Pouch, push the little plunger, open it up. Inside, put the yarn that you are working with. There is an interior loop, thread your yarn inside the loop and snap it shut. Use the drawstring to close the bag and lock it down with the plunger. There is an exterior loop that you can attach to your handbag, your belt, if you are on a plane, with kids, pets - it keeps your yarn clean. As you are knitting, just pull your yarn right from the bag - it keeps it neat, clean and tangle free." That's great! Thanks so much.


Shop KnowKnits GoKnits Knitting Pouches

Happy knitting!

Energia One-Skein Cowl Free Knitting Pattern

I knitted up this easy diagonal lace cowl during just one evening of watching the Olympics. It worked up fast and was perfect to knit while watching TV. Just enough of a pattern to keep me interested, but not too distracting to take away from watching TV and talking. The cowl uses one skein of Adriafil Energia yarn and is knitted in the round. I used color Rapsberry Lips, but I must admit it was hard to choose, all of the colors are so pretty!

Easy Lace Cowl - Free Knitting Pattern
Completed Cowl Measures: 5 x 14" measured flat

You will need:

• 1 ball Adriafil Energia Yarn
• Size US 11 circular 16" or 24" needles
• 1 stitch marker

Cast on 78 stitches. Join ends becareful not to twist yarn
Place stitch marker at the beginning of round.
Round 1: Knit
Round 2: *K1, yo, K1, yo, K1, SK2P.*  Repeat from * to * around.
Repeat Rounds 1 and 2 until panel measures 6" from the beginning. 
Bind off and weave in yarn ends.

Abbreviations
K:  knit
YO:  yarn over
SK2P:  slip 1 stitch, knit next 2 stitches together, pass slipped stitch over

Happy knitting!

Prism Stuff Easy One Skein Shawl Free Pattern

One Skein Shawl Free Knitting Pattern
NobleKnits Games - Day 3 Spent watching the Olympics and knitting up this quick triangle shawl. You've seen pattern before because it is one of my favorite projects to make. Why? Because it is easy and fun to knit, perfect for using one skein of a very special yarn, and it's open and lacy. I used one skein of Prism Stuff yarn. This yarn is all hand dyed and and hand tied making every skein a treat and one-of-a-kind. The yarns keep changing as you knit and it's a pleasure to see what yarn is coming up for the next few stitches. 

Completed Shawl Measures: 56" across at top x 22" long at center

You will need:

• 1 ball Prism Wild Stuff or Cool Stuff Yarn (150 yards)
• Size US 15 straight or circular needles

Note: This pattern is worked entirely in garter stitch (knit every row)

1. Cast on 3 stitches
2. Increase 1 stitch at the beginning of every row until there are approximately 50 stitches on the needle
3. When you reach 50 stitches on the needle, increase 1 stitch at the BEGINNING and END of every row until only a few yards of yarn remain.
4. Bind off VERY loosely.

I used color Brass. Pick your favorite color and have fun. Happy Knitting!

Knitting Bags

Knitting Organizer Set

More people are becoming more domestic in today’s time due to rising prices and failing economy. One craft that people have started to pick up, mostly women but in some cases men, is knitting. Knitting is a way that one can make clothing, accessories, baby items, and even household items. The best part of knitting is the fact that you can choose your own yarn, creating things that you enjoy. After you develop the love for knitting, you will find yourself taking it everywhere. You are going to need a few supplies to make that a little easier.

Knitting Bags

Knitting bags are bags that hold your knitting accessories. Accessories include the yarn, needles, counters, and any other item you may need to work on your project. One type of knitting bag is a knitting tote bag. A knitting tote bag is bag that is made of waterproof material and helps one stay organized.

Another type of bag is a yarn keeper bag. These bags are similar to the totes but are smaller. They hold roughly one ball of yarn. The clear top allows you to see how much yarn is left, and the hole in the top will allow a continuous strand of yarn to be available for your work. These bags can even be put inside tote bags.

Knitting Accessory Bags

Accessory cases are a must in large knitting tote bags. The accessory case will hold all your notions you need for your projects. Accessory cases are a must to keep your scissors, small needles, and even counting loops will get lost in the bag. A good accessory bag will have sections for you to slide things into, fabric pieces to attach your needles and other hooks too.

Needle Cases

Knitting needles do not fit in accessory bags and will need to be kept in needle cases. This will prevent the needles from getting tangled up in the yarn, or stabbing you when you reach into the knitting bag. Needle cases come in different styles but most will hold your needles and then fold up. They are made of cloth and either use a tie or snap closure. When shopping for a needle case, you will want to think about what type of needles you use. If you use just straight needles, then your case will need to be longer and fold lengthwise. If you are using both, you will want a needle case that has pockets for the circular knitting needles.

Knitting is a craft that can help keep one busy, and kids will love. With a knitting bag and accessory bags, you can take your knitting wherever you want to go. You are no longer tied to knitting at home; you can knit in the car while waiting in line to pick up the children from school. Knitting bags also allow you to carry your project in an organized and fashionable method. Most knitting totes go with any outfit and could easily pass as a simple purse.

Olympics 2012 Opening Ceremony: Let the Knitting Begin!

I've been waiting for this all day! I decided to kick off the Olympics Opening Ceremony with an easy quick-knit project. I'm using Universal Papier Yarn to make this one skein scarf.
Want to make one, too? Here's the free pattern! For a longer scarf, use 2 skeins and knit to desired length.



Papier Easy Drop Stitch Scarf Free Knitting Pattern


Complete Scarf Measures: 4.5 x 48" 


You will need:

• 1 skein Universal Papier Yarn
• Size US 13 needles

Cast on 13 stitches

Row 1: Knit

Row 2: Knit 1, *yarn over, knit one.* Repeat from * to * across.

Row 3: Knit stitches and drop the yarn overs created on the previous row - you should have 13 stitches on the needle when you complete this row.

Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until only 1 yard of yarn remains. Bind off and weave in yarn ends. Give a gentle tug on both ends of the scarf to allow the dropped stitches to fall into place.

My Olympics 2012 Opening Ceremony Scarf
I love the matte and shiny finish of Papier Yarn, plus it has a tiny ruffled edge!

Free Knitting Pattern Friday: Soft Frog Hoodie!

Just in from our friends at Universal Yarns, the Soft Frog Hoodie is a free knitting pattern using Universal Cotton Supreme Bubbles yarn. This yarn scattered with tiny pom poms adds lots of texture and softness to your knitting project. The free pattern is a short sleeved hooded cardigan that skims the waistline. It features an easy little checks stitch pattern - perfect for knitting (and wearing) now!


Sizes: S (M, L, XL, 2X, 3X)
Completed Chest Measurements: 32 (36, 40, 44, 48, 52)"


You will need:

• Download Soft Frog Hoodie Free Knitting Pattern
• 4 (4, 5, 5, 6, 7) skeins Universal Cotton Supreme Bubbles Yarn - shown in Green Frog
• Size US 7 straight and circular 24" needles

Gauge: 20 x 26 sts to 4" in stockinette stitch

NobleKnits Knitting Games during the Olympics!

I am counting down the hours to the 2012 Summer Olympic Games! Why? Because I love to sit, watch the Games and knit! It's a great time to accomplish A LOT of knitting. I'll be marking the opening ceremonies by casting on a new knitting project and knitting as much as possible while enjoying the games and cheering for my favorite athletes.

Join us daily here on our blog, Twitter, Facebook page, and Google+ while we host our own "knitting games" during the event. We'll have give giveaways, fun games, knitting and Olympic trivia, and even some secret sales for those participating in the event.

Not only will I be knitting a few new projects, but I'm also going to try and finish knitting some of those WIPs that have been hanging around. What will you knit during the Olympics?

Let the knitting begin!

Lacy Fun With Style

Knitting Pattern

Lace knittingpatters are definitely making waves again in the fashion world. From lace knitted scarves to shawls to sexy boleros, knitted wear makes for the perfect, light accessory with pretty much anything especially when the weather is in transition. While most stores do house a number of colors and patterns in each lace knitted design, there is really nothing like knitting lace wear from scratch. Beginners should pick out an easy lace knitting pattern from the many lace knitting patterns available in online stores and start off by knitting something simple like a scarf. Pick out a lace scarf knitting pattern that is simple and repetitive, this allows for ease in knitting and makes the process fairly fast and gives knitters good practice. Here are some tips on how to find the right patterns.

When picking out patterns look for simple instructions. Knitting can be intimidating to first timers, but easy and simple instructions make it quite fun. Look for lace scarf knitting patterns that do not require any seaming since that can be a tad bit more complicated. There are several types of yarn and thicker yarn is easier to knit, so first timers should definitely opt for lace knitting patters that use thicker yarn.

When stitching something complicated, find a pattern with step by step instructions and yarn yardage needed. This reduces the hassle of having to manage the measurement and makes purchasing the yarn easy. Pick out knitting patterns that have a chart that recommends the needle size, how many stitches to cast on and has instructions on how to make a swatch. A reference chart makes knitting simpler as it recommends what should be used to attain a particular pattern.

For fancy patterns, pick out patterns that recommend the yarn. Fancy patterns require fancy yarn. Some brands of yarn actually have beads and sequins sewn in randomly so picking a pattern that recommends a particular brand is definitely a good idea. These patterns will be exactly according to the beaded yarn bought and should have a size specified. This pattern will work only for beaded yarn otherwise the fit and sizing may come out differently. The pattern will also mention what needles to purchase, what hooks to get, what type of yarn to get and how much. It is important to check the difficulty level of the pattern, there are knitting patterns for beginners and for advanced users so knitters should pick the one that suits their particular skill level.

Knitted lace patterns can be bought by project, brand or type and users can easily customize what they want to knit once they gain experience and practice. The advantage of using a knitting pattern is several. Using knitted lace patterns prevents knitting projects from going wrong, they give users an entire step by step guide on everything from what to purchase to seaming and prevent beginners from wasting their money on knitting products they do not need. Knitting done at home with patterns is a great hobby that can be easily learn and enjoyed with the help of an easy lace knitting pattern.

When to Start Christmas Knitting? Now!

Ysolda Teague Last Minute Christmas Stockings Knitting Pattern

It's never too early to start your Christmas knitting! Too often, I wait until the last minute to start my projects and then don't have enough time to finish the gifts for everyone on my list. This year, I'm starting now so I can get a jump on my projects.

Bully Woolies Bead Ball Ornaments Knitting Kit

Here are some of my favorite Christmas knitting projects that are perfect for starting now, then stowing them until December 25th.

Cabin Fever Christmas Stockings Pattern

Knitting at KNoon Snobuddies Snowman Knitting Pattern

Kalamazoo Knits Aran Christmas Ornaments Knitting Pattern

Happy knitting!

Stitch Holders For Knitting

Stitch Holders

Knitting is a fun and very rewarding hobby. Few people know how to knit, but once the skill is mastered, it makes for great gifts, or even a side business. Learning how to knit is a cheap pastime, and it is easy for those who have a knack for following instructions and creating things with their hands. When first learning how to knit, kits and patterns are essential for discovering new techniques, stitches, and skills. Once the basics are learned, the expert knitter can create projects from scratch without the help of patterns or instructions.

How To Use Knitting Stitch Holders

One of the key skills for learning how to knit is using a stitch holder. A stitch holder is referenced in many knitting patterns. A stitch holder is used for keeping stitches open on a project while working on other parts of the garment.

To use a holder, it is important to first make eight stitches. Then, slide those stitches onto the holder. Avoid twisting the yarn. To continue working, just slide the stitches onto the left needle. Double ended straight stitchholders are even easier to use, requiring stitches to be returned directly to the needles.

How To Shop For Cable Stitch Holders

Straight and cable stitch holders are available at most hobby shops and craft supply stores. They are normally very cheap, with most sets of two selling for less than ten dollars. A variety of sizes are available, depending on the size of the knit they will be used for. It is a good idea to purchase a few different sizes, but for a new knitter, a medium size will be sufficient. They are sold in sets of two, which is enough for most projects. It is a good idea to purchase a spare set, but not necessary. Multiple sets are ideal for those who tend to work on several projects at a time.

How To Use Stitch Markers

Stitch markers are also good to have as part of a knitting supply kit. They resemble small hooks or loops, which are slipped onto the stitches while knitting. Many patterns will call for markers to be used to mark where to make a certain stitch.

Some markers are closed, meaning they can only be removed while the stitch is worked. Others are open, and can be moved around easily even if one is not working on the specific area of the item.

Stitch markers are normally very cheap, with as many as two dozen for two dollars. However, the most ornamental ones, which may be made of stained glass or colorful plastic, are often a little more expensive.

Knitting stitch holders and markers are often used in many patterns. It is ideal to know how to use them before beginning a complicated project. Straight stitch holders are good to have handy when moving on to another part of the project, or keeping work secure when it is not being worked on.

What to Knit with Manos Serena Yarn? A Free Pattern!

Perfect for warmer weather, this Shadow Shawl from Manos del Uruguay features Manos Serena yarn, a beautiful blend of pima cotton and baby alpaca. It's perfect for cool evenings and to take off the chill of air conditioning.


Manos del Uruguay Shadow Shawl Free Knitting Pattern


Completed Shawl Measures: 56 x 28"

You will need:

• Download Shadow Shawl Free Knitting Pattern
• 2 skeins each of 2 colors (main color and contrast color) Manos Serena Yarn
• Size US 4 circular 32" needles
• Stitch markers

Crochet Patterns

Crocheted Basket Pattern

Crocheting is the process of creating pieces of garments or fabrics from a yarn using crochet hooks. While industrial crochet produces fabrics in larger quantities for commercial sales, individuals from all over the world have also adopted this craft as hobby, creating different pieces of crochet patterns one at a time. Patterns can be anything imaginable from flowers and leaves, to butterflies, fish and animals that are used to design items like necklaces, pendants and earrings, to brooches, bookmarks, greeting cards and shoes, to name a few.

There are hundreds of crochet patterns for just about every craft, clothing items and accessories ranging from the quick and easy crochet patterns used for baby blankets, and scarves to more intricate patterns used for dolls and sweaters. All crochet patterns also range from stitches such as single crochets, double crochets, and the simple crochet fringe.

Other crochet designs can be for table cloths and mats for home decoration, shawls, tunics, and a variety of items. All the different patterns also require different hook sizes and yarn strengths and although they can be a little confusing for beginners who want to take up this craft, it’s always wise to begin with basic patterns and progress along the way. Below are some easy crochet patterns and the designs they can be used for.

Basic Leaf – This is a popular and easy crochet pattern that can be done in different colors for a pleasing effect. For instance white crochet leaves stringed on a neck chain creates an ethereal look around any neckline. Crochet leaves also makes beautiful dangling earrings.

Flower – The flower crochet pattern can be used in a variety of ways to add beauty to any art or craft work. Flowers like lilies, daffodils, roses and poinsettias can be vividly created in crochets to make ornaments. They can be attached to items like bags, hats, scrapbook pages, and clothes to create fleur, and they make fascinating hair accessories as well. Crochet red rose flowers with green crochet leaves can be stringed to make a fabulous neck scarf. The colored little flowers also make beautiful crochet patterns for baby booties and hats.

Sweet Potato Baby Blanket – These are crochet patterns for a baby blanket that is appropriate for both boys and girls, depending on the color of yarn used. This pattern requires an H/5mm hook using about 870 yards of worsted weight yarn which is soft for babies.

Granny Squares – This is a basic pattern that is easy and very versatile. They can be worked with any yarn choice of same fibers in a single or multiple colors. They can also be crocheted with all gauges. Granny squares pattern can be used to make items such as blankets, tote bags and even potholders.

The Perfect Tool: Interchangeable Needle Sets

Interchangeable Knitting Needle Kit

With so many choices when it comes to knitting tools, it's no wonder people can become confused with what works best for them. Some things look appropriate for knitting but end up being useless or flimsy. So, why should an avid knitter buyinterchangeable needle sets? Well, that depends on what your knitting needles will hold and what you plan on making. Some small knitting needles are good for things like socks and smaller novelties, while others use larger knitting needles that use more weight, such as sweaters.

What do you need?

If you’re saying, "All of the above", then you’re a likely candidate for interchangeable needle sets. They work for everything and you don't have to continue to switch them out, so it's much easier on the designer.

There are some key features to look for when purchasing a knitting needle set. You should look to see how well the connections meld so that you can avoid any snag-ups when knitting. Many people prefer different colors in their knitting needle set, while others don't mind pinks and blues.

One of the biggest decisions when looking at an interchangeable set is if you prefer metal or plastic tips. Plastic tips are safe for planes, but some knitters prefer the more solid feel of metal. Some also prefer nickel-plated options.

Are you an intermediate, beginner or advanced knitter?

That should say a lot on how pointy you want your needles to be. Keep in mind that there are several brands to choose from so ask some of your knitting buddies and they're likely to offer you some great brands in interchangeables. Beginners should bend more towards bamboo and plastic mediums. They are also lighter for those who needs aren't overly-agile.

A big myth about interchangeables is that they only collaborate with certain size needles. In truth, most kits will come with sizes 4 and up. If you need something smaller than a 4, you can go to the supplier and order them separately. This is a nice benefit for those who do all kinds of knitting projects.

Expect to become a fan! Those who enjoy interchangeable needles will usually stick with them. It's rare that a knitter doesn't respond to the ease in which these particular tools give their users. Taking into consideration your personal knitting style will also ensure that you don't waste your money on an item that isn't appropriate.