Next in our series of Moon Chronicles, where we revisit the moon for crafting inspiration, we’ve got the Beaver Moon. November’s full moon is known as the Beaver Moon among many other names. This title was created to recognize the hard work and the time of year when beavers were most active - preparing for winter by building dams and stocking up on food. Another reference is to Colonists and Native American tribes who would set traps to capture them before the swamps froze so they could use their pelts to make warm winter clothing. (Note: We are not condoning this habit but just reporting it. History is brutal as survival was the only thought in the face of the harsh winters.)
As we have tried to make a connection with the moon and creativity this blog will also take you through the Beaver Moon’s influence on crafting.
Beaver Moon’s Effect on Crafters
The moon bears no resemblance to a beaver, we might add. However, it is the fourth supermoon of the year. To be a Super Moon means, that it’s brighter than the other full moons. If you wish to know why, just google it. All of this reading about moons, beavers and cold weather got us thinking about a whole bunch of connected subjects, including our crafts- knitting and crocheting and some favorite patterns. Since the moon is named for this furry character, we wanted to share a few of the adorable ways that fiber people have paid them respect, without trapping them.
Crocheting Amigurumi
When talking about the cute and furry Beaver, a crafter’s mind conjures images of the fluffy creature in yarn. Amigurumi is what you need. Refer to our guide on getting started with Amigurumi crochet. For a good example, work on a crocheted beaver with worsted weight yarn, can you imagine how beautiful (and soft) this fellow would be in one of Bella’s beautiful brown shades, like Cocoa bean or Wood Ash?
Of course, being a creative type you might wish to have a little fun and make him in one of Bella’s lively variegated colors - but we suggest you keep that handsome tail a deep brown or black. We admit to a lot of admiration for that useful little tail.
For a cute knit version, consider using Terra, the fingering weight yarn from Symfonie.
Knitting and Crocheting Moon Patterns
If the actual moon is of more interest as a subject matter, you might take a look at knitting them in your garments and accessories.
You can start with Luna Yarn. The merino-silk yarn is available in 16 shades. Hand-dyed by skilled artisans every yarn skien of the DK weight yarn knits and crochets magic. The 75% extrafine merino wool brings warmth and versatility while the 25% silk has a shimmering quality that adds to the premium look.
This Luna Cowl is aptly named. The pattern calls for a worsted weight yarn but it would be even more interesting if it was knit with 2 strands of Luna yarn - a shimmery fiber lover’s delight made of merino and silk. Imagine it in the luscious hand-dyed colors.
Another beautiful piece of work is known as the Ixchel Cowl and was designed by talented knitting designer, Catherine Clark. This calls for a beautiful fingering weight yarn and it is worked on circular needles. Check out Turmeric and Jodhpur Blue for color suggestions. Many knitters have fallen so in love with this “moony cowl” that they went on to the sweater or cardigan among other projects.
Gifts for your favorite Crafter
With the holiday season only a few weeks away, it’s time to get your gift shopping done. If you have a knitter or a crochet lover on your Holiday gift list, you might be interested in seeing some of Lantern Moon’s suggestions. Start by taking a look at the Lantern Moon Collection of beautiful needles, crochet hooks and accessories. The needles and hooks are crafted from elegant ebony wood. The liquid silk finish is warm and easy on the hand and ensures a smooth, no-snag stitch glide. Lantern Moon’s needles are available in every configuration: straight, circular, interchangeable and double-pointed needles plus a variety of sets. The knitting needle sets are available in various combinations. From 10 popular needle sizes to 5 handy sizes, there are different types of sets. Choose from 4” and 5” interchangeable needle tips.
Lantern Moon’s Crochet hooks come in both straight and Tunisian Crochet versions. You can gift a crocheter in individual sizes or sets. The Radiance Set has 6 single-ended crochet hooks packed in a beautiful handmade Khadi silk case. The Bequest Set has 6 interchangeable Tunisain crochet hooks and accessories packed in a handy set For the ultimate in gifts, be sure to check out their impressive variety of knitting and crochet sets.
Among the versatile assortment of storage solutions and accessories are these wonderful silky pouches. They work well for a variety of small items - such as stitch markers and tape measures, but they also are great travel companions for things such as earrings and tiny treasures. They make great stocking stuffers, too!
Be sure to check out all the”Lantern Moon” items for this Holiday’s gift-giving season and beyond! We will back soon with another report on the moon and in anticipation of the brightest star in the sky. In the meantime, here’s a pretty picture of this month’s Beaver Moon.