The Wolf is on the Prowl. At least it was last week when we saw the arrival of the Wolf Moon. The name January’s lunar visitor was coined by Native Americans since they knew wolves to be most active and predatory in the winter month. For crafters, it is the time to explore creativity, pursue new horizons and be prepared for the winter. That makes sense since brisk weather tends to bring out the appetite in all of us. It certainly brings out the “need to make warm things” in those who love fiber arts. Here are a few “Wolf-inspired” patterns to consider the next time you feel the urge to pick up your knitting needles, crochet hooks, or a punch needle (a craft that has taken the world by storm)! You can explore our guide on trendy knitting patterns to try in January.
Socks
In respect for those among us who tend to have “cold feet”, making socks that you might foot (and heart) warming is top on your list. Knitting socks with double-pointed needles has been going on for centuries and to date you can find makers growing socks on DPNs. The ebony wood knitting needles are ideal for socks as the surface allows the smooth flow of stitches. You can explore patterns that come in a variety of sizes so that you can knit for a whole family of feet – from kids to grandpa. If you are adept with crochet hooks then we’ve got easy tips to make crochet socks.
In case you are searching for the ideal sock yarn – one that ensures socks will stay up as well as warm your cold toes. Here’s a suggestion: Terra, the fingering weight yarn from Symfonie Yarns collection that comes in 46 hand-dyed colors. Terra, a yarn made with first-class merino, contains just enough polyamide yarn for durability, Also being machine washable makes it suitable for all types of lightweight yarn projects, and provides 415 yards of pure knitting enjoyment.
Cowls
Another project that is suitable for the season is a cowl. This neck warmer is meant to be worn on the outside of your coat collar or close to your neck. You can knit or crochet one cowl. While the crocheted fabric is generally believed to be dense and textured, knitting two works for a beautiful textured fabric suitable for warm cowls. Understanding knitting vs crochet- differences, similarities and what’s better helps you decide which crafting style to try.
For those out there who think of the Wolf as their totem animal or feel drawn to them in some way, a cowl with motifs of the creature might capture your interest. For yarn, a DK weight such as Viva or a worsted weight such as Bella is perfect. You can proceed with knitting in the round using a circular needle so no seaming is necessary. Cicrault knitting needles are handy as their wooden tips lead to 24K brass connectors that allow the flow of stitches. However, if you prefer knitting flat on two straight needles when the cowl will have a seam. Refer to our ultimate guide on the technique of knitting in the round.
Mittens & Gloves
Cold weather is also “mitten weather”. If you have small children in your life – you already know how hard it is to get them to hold onto their mittens. One of the easiest ways to keep those little mitts on little hands is to use a yarn with a bit of nylon built in. Without being seen, it helps to keep the mitten from slipping off a kid’s active hand ….and who would ever want to lose one of these?
Explore a darling pair of fox & wolf mittens knit in a fingering weight sock yarn like Terra. There are multiple colors (over 46) from which to choose, but we admit to liking Black Pepper and Sunset the best. Knit in the round on double point needles, these children’s mittens will finish up quickly, and Viva has enough yardage (415 yds) for multiple pairs.
Baby Blankets and Amigurumi Toys
Anyone fortunate enough to have a new baby in their life probably knows how important a lovey is when soothing infants. Just in case you do not know exactly what that is, let us explain: It is usually a soft object, like a blanket or an easy-to-hold stuffed toy that feels soothing to the touch.) They are often given to new babies as a first toy.
Work on Wolf soft toy in a soft washable yarn. Explore our guide on getting started with Amigurumi crochet. To ensure safety, all face features should be embroidered or sewn on. Do NOT use buttons since they are a choking hazard). Whichever yarn you decide to use, we recommend you choose a yarn that has received OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification. That means it has been tested, and it does not contain harmful chemicals or substances. Symfonie Yarns is proud to have that prestigious certification.
Explore a knit patchwork baby blanket or crochet one with yarn stash, there’s a lot of options to keep the little ones warm and toasty, snuggled in blankets. Try colorwork and textured stitches to enhance the charm.
We will be back soon to profile the upcoming February Moon, aka “The Snow Moon”. Pure snow is such a lovely inspiration to fiber artists so we promise you: there will be lots of creativity in the air. Until then explore 5 quick winter knitting projects using wooden knitting needles.