“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”
It seems lately like there are a lot of things that fall under the “things I cannot change” heading. If you’ve already voted, and you’re following best COVID practices, and are generally doing the things that are within your power to take care of others, this is your moment to remember to take care of yourself, too. And as crafters, one of the ways we can do that is by sitting down and picking up our yarn and tools.
With that in mind, we have some recommendations for “comfort crafts.” These are projects that are big, fluffy, mindless, or some combination of the three. And to further keep stress at bay, they’re all free patterns.
Looks super cozy, doesn’t it? Well, it is. Here’s our Creative Lead Rachel Brockman wrapping herself up like a human burrito in this blanket and the Mosaic Cowl, also in Bella Chenille Big.
I’m not entirely sure Rachel would be thrilled with this picture being posted, but she’s off at a photo shoot and can’t object. As long as you don’t tell her, it’s all fine.
This may look like an enormous project, but it’s knit in Bella Chenille Big on US 15 (10mm) needles, so it goes faster than you think. Plus you have the advantage of being able to snuggle under it while you’re making it!
2. The Choux Cowl knit in Alaska
Honestly, Alaska is soothing just to touch. It’s one of those yarns that you find yourself stroking like it’s a tribble. And because of its construction, it’s surprisingly light and warm.
The Choux Cowl is worked as a tube in the round, with columns of slip stitch on the even rows making the plaid effect. The pattern provides options for seamed and seamless finishing. If you’re a crocheter who wants to use this yarn, may we suggest…
3. March Fog crocheted in Alaska
This sample took pretty much exactly two balls each of 902 Peach Puff and 905 Stormy. If you plan on making this any bigger, we’d recommend grabbing an extra ball of each color.
This is a light and lofty stole that would work equally well as a scarf. Its two row repeat is easy to memorize, for a great dose of calming crochet.
4. The Behemoth Scarf in Revolutions
Big? Check. Soft? Check. Easy? Check! Revolutions is a unique blend of fibers with a soft halo (thanks to the mohair and alpaca included). Each ball (wheel? roll?) includes four colors in stripes that go together beautifully.
Work the four-row shell pattern lengthwise. If you want to shorten your scarf, just subtract 10 from the stitch count. Easy peasy.
5. The Dappled Shawl knit in Be Wool
Big, squishable Be Wool is one of our newer yarns, and it’s proven to be a popular one. No wonder, when you can make projects like this so quickly!
If you want to try your first shawl, this is a great beginner project. If you’re an old pro, this will feel like coming home. Either way, on US size 17 (12mm) needles, it’s the definition of “instant gratification” comfort knits.
These are just a start. We’re sure you have some go-to projects that are favorites, and we’d love to hear about them. So make yourself some coffee-maker apple cider (works great in a crock pot, too) and settle in. Breathe, let go of stress, and enjoy the work of your hands.
Happy crafting.
