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Quick Gift Knits: Four Stunning Last-Minute Projects You Can Finish in a Weekend

Flatlay view of a light blue gift box with a bright pink ribbon decorated with a pink and white miniature sock.

The holidays are just around the corner, and your gift list is growing—but so is your knitting queue. Sound familiar? If you’re a busy knitter juggling work, family, and a to-do list that’s getting longer by the day, you might feel like there’s just not enough time to create meaningful, handmade gifts. Guess what? You are not alone. According to the 2016 AFCI study, 62% of knitters give items they craft as gifts. But don’t worry! Even with limited time, you can still knit something stunning and thoughtful for your loved ones. In this post, I’m sharing four quick gift knits you can finish in a weekend—so you can impress without the stress.

Why Quick Gift Knits Are a Lifesaver for Busy Knitters

We’ve all been there. You have big plans for your holiday knitting—sweaters, scarves, and socks for everyone on your list. But suddenly, it’s mid-December, and there’s just no way you’ll finish everything in time. That’s where quick gift knits come in.

These small but impactful projects are perfect for busy knitters who still want to gift something handmade. Not only do they save time, but they also allow you to use up yarn from your stash, experiment with fun new patterns, and create something truly special without feeling overwhelmed.

4 Gorgeous Last-Minute Patterns You’ll Love

If you’re ready to dive into some last-minute projects, here are three patterns that are quick, fun, and still packed with personality. These are perfect for gifting, and best of all, they won’t take more than a weekend to complete!

 

1. Divine Hat: A Quick and Colorful Mosaic Knit

Looking for a hat that’s both fast and fun to knit? The Divine Hat is the perfect choice. Knit in bulky yarn (shown here in Plush Bulky from OnTheRound Yarn), this colorful hat knits up quickly, making it a great option for last-minute gift knitting. The mosaic colorwork adds visual interest but is simpler than it looks—you only work with one color at a time, making this project approachable for intermediate knitters. The bold design and cozy fit make Divine a showstopper, perfect for anyone on your gift list.

Pro Tip: Add a fun pom-pom to the top for a playful finishing touch!

 
 

2. Fun Fingerless Mitts

Fingerless mitts are one of the most versatile gift knits—they’re practical, stylish, and fast to make. The Kaiburr fingerless mitts pattern combines a unique construction with self striping yarn (I used Perfect Sock from Must Stash Yarn), giving the mitts an elegant look that belies their simplicity. You can easily finish a pair of mitts over the weekend, and they make a perfect gift for anyone who loves to stay warm while still using their hands.

Pro Tip: Use a luxurious yarn blend like merino and cashmere for an ultra-soft finish that feels like a true luxury gift.

 

3. Festive Mini Ornaments: Socks, Sweaters, and Baubles

For smaller, faster projects that are ideal for adding a handmade touch to your holiday decor—or for gifting as cute stocking stuffers—mini ornaments are the way to go. These delightful little projects are perfect for using up yarn scraps and can be completed in no time!

  • Mini Sock Adventure: Knit adorable mini socks that are perfect for hanging on the tree or tying onto gift packages. These tiny socks are quick to knit and a great way to practice sock techniques on a small scale.

  • Mini Sweater Adventure: These mini sweaters are just as fun to knit as their full-sized counterparts but take a fraction of the time! Perfect as ornaments or thoughtful gift tags for fellow knitters. These sweaters are even cuter when hung on a doll clothes hanger (the 6cm size is a perfect fit).

  • Knitted Baubles by Stacey Lewis: Add a touch of elegance to your holiday decor with Stacey Lewis’ Knitted Baubles. These textured and colorwork ornaments are knit in the round and can be personalized with your favorite colors to suit any holiday theme. I knit the one below with a kit from Marianated Yarns.

Pro Tip: Use sparkly or glittery yarn for ornaments to give them a festive shimmer, or mix and match colors for a playful holiday vibe!

 
 
 

4. Cozy Chunky Cowls

Cowls are a fantastic option for gift knitting—they’re practical, stylish, and knit up fast, especially when made with chunky yarn. For maximum results, look for a design that is all about texture, featuring an eye-catching stitch pattern that looks far more complex than it really is. Using bulky yarn, you’ll be able to finish this project in just a few hours, and the end result is a warm, snuggly cowl that anyone would love to wear. I love Satura by Tonia Lyons (from knitty.com) and I Love Waffles Cowl by Heather Rhoads (available on Ravelry.com) for their mix of beautiful texture and simple knitting.

Pro Tip: Choose a luxurious hand-dyed yarn in a rich, vibrant color to make this gift extra special!

Close up view of a cowl knit in fall colors showing the texture of the slip stitch patterning.

Satura by Tonia Lyons

I Love Waffles Cowl by Heather Rhoads

 

Best Yarn Choices for Speed and Style

When knitting last-minute gifts, your yarn choice matters. To speed up the process without sacrificing quality, opt for thicker yarns like bulky or super bulky, which will knit up quickly but still create beautifully textured fabric. Look for hand-dyed yarns or special fiber blends to add a touch of luxury, even to simpler projects.

Here are a few yarn types I recommend for quick knitting:

• Bulky / Chunky and Super Bulky Merino Wool: Perfect for cowls and hats that need to be finished fast but still look and feel amazing.

Hand-dyed Yarns: Add a unique touch to your gifts by using one-of-a-kind skeins from indie dyers.

• Alpaca or Cashmere Blends: Soft, lightweight, and perfect for fingerless mitts or cowls with a bit of drape.

• Doubled-Up Yarns: Knit with two strands of yarn at once, you’ll finish faster while adding extra thickness to your stitches. Check out my Double Exposure pattern for a quick & easy, thick, cozy sock.

How to Make the Most of Your Weekend Knitting Time

Knitting a gift in a weekend is all about maximizing your time. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:

• Pick a simple, repetitive pattern: Focus on patterns that use easy-to-memorize stitch repeats so you can knit while watching a movie or chatting with friends.

• Set small goals: Break up your project into sections—like knitting the body of a hat or completing a mitt—so you feel a sense of accomplishment as you go.

• Use circular needles: If possible, knit in the round to avoid seaming, which can save you time and effort.

Beautiful Gifts in a Flash

Just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean your handmade gifts have to feel rushed or lackluster. With these quick gift knits, you can create something truly beautiful and personal—even in the busiest of holiday seasons. Whether it’s a cute ornaments, a colorful hat, or a pair of fingerless mitts, these projects will impress your loved ones and show them just how much you care.

Ready to cast on? Grab your favorite yarn and start knitting this weekend—your holiday gifts will be done before you know it!

Want More Knitting Inspiration? Get Access to My Free Pattern Library!

Love the idea of knitting handmade gifts? Sign up for my email list and get access to exclusive free patterns, including a cozy hat, sweater, shawl, and two adorable children's sweaters—perfect for your next project or a gift for yourself. You’ll also be the first to know about new pattern releases, special offers, and knitting tips that help you stay inspired all year long.

 
 
A pink, white, and green hand knit mini sock ornament hanging on a Christmas tree
 
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Knitting Cozy, Warm Socks has Never Been so Easy: Double Exposure Sock Pattern

A cozy scene with a cup of coffee, yarn, and freshly knitted socks from the Double Exposure pattern.

You know how we're always drooling over our sock yarn stashes, dreaming up the perfect project that lets you play with all those beautiful colors?  I probably spend half my time just daydreaming about what to knit with all those gorgeous yarns, caught between the love for my stash and the urge to create something fun. That's where my Double Exposure Sock Pattern comes in. It’s the ideal pattern for mixing and matching your favorite yarns to knit thick, comfy socks that are as colorful as they are cozy. Not only will your feet stay warm, but you’ll also have so much fun playing with yarn combinations!

Why I Love Marled Socks

There's something so satisfying about knitting thick marled socks. With two strands of fingering weight yarn held double, you get a warm, cozy fabric that knits up quickly and looks stunning. Whether you're a sock-knitting pro or new to the craft, you’ll find this pattern fun and approachable.

Introducing the Double Exposure Sock Pattern

The Double Exposure Sock Pattern is a playful, customizable knitting project that brings your sock yarn stash to life. Designed with knitters of all skill levels in mind, the pattern includes seven sizes, from children to large adults. The best part? You can mix and match yarns to create a unique, personal design. Whether you’re knitting for yourself or a loved one, this project promises warmth, comfort, and a splash of color.

How to Knit the Double Exposure Socks

Step 1: Choose Your Yarn Pairings

Start by diving into your yarn stash and pick two yarns that make your heart sing. Don’t worry about perfect matches; this pattern shines when you mix different shades and tones. Here are a few yarn pairing ideas to get you started:

 
Detail shot of the marled stitches in the Double Exposure sock knitting pattern.

Variegated and Semi-Solid: A combination of highly contrasting yarns emphasizes the marled effect.

Self-Striping and Tonal Yarn: A subtle tonal color paired with a self-striping yarn creates stunning visual interest.

 
 
Flat lay of balls of yarn and finished socks for a sock knitting project using the Double Exposure pattern.

Mini-Skeins and Leftovers: Pair leftover yarns or a beautiful mini skein set with a neutral tone to make the most of your stash.

Flat lay of yarn and finished socks for a sock knitting project using the Double Exposure pattern.

One Skein Held Double: For a single-color sock, hold one skein of yarn double. (Depending on the size, you may need a second yarn for the heels and toes.)

 
 
A close up showing how different the finished socks can look based on the color of yarn selected.
 

What a Difference a Color Change Can Make

These two socks were knit with the same variegated yarn main color, but different contrasting tonal colors. The results are vastly different.

 

Step 2: Cast On and Start Knitting

With your yarn chosen, it’s time to cast on! You’ll hold two strands of fingering weight yarn together, creating a beautiful marled fabric. To get the right gauge, I recommend using a US 5 (3.75mm) needle. This project knits up quickly, and watching the colors blend is like seeing a masterpiece unfold on your needles!

Step 3: Wear and enjoy your new cozy socks.

I think you are going to love these thick winter socks. One of my favorite yarns to use for these socks is Harley Fingering from Marianated Yarns. This sock yarn had a bit of mohair in it, and the resulting socks are so soft and warm - they get me through the long Maine winters.


 
An overhead view of a knitters feet wearing recently finished socks next to a cup of coffee and leftover yarn.

Double Exposure Sock Pattern

Sizes 5¼ (6, 6¾) 7¼, 8, 8¾, 9¼” / 13.5 (15, 17) 18.5, 20.5, 22, 23.5 cm finished sock circumference.

Needles Size US size 5 US/3.75mm needles for small circumference knitting in the round. Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Gauge 24 sts and 34 rows = 4”/10 cm in Stockinette stitch knit in the round with yarn held double.

 

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About the Double Exposure Sock Pattern

1. How difficult is this pattern for beginners?
No worries! The pattern is designed with clear instructions and helpful tips, making it accessible to all knitters, whether you're new to sock knitting or a seasoned pro.

2. Are there sizes for both children and adults?
Absolutely! The pattern includes seven sizes, with the smallest fitting children around 3-4 years old and the largest accommodating men’s shoe sizes 12-14. Just remember to allow for negative ease: for children, choose a sock about ½” smaller than the foot circumference, and for adults, allow for 1” of negative ease. Be sure to measure your foot circumference at the widest part of the foot, just below the toes.

3. What kind of yarn works best?
While this pattern is designed for sock yarn (fingering weight yarn in a wool/nylon blend), the beauty of the Double Exposure Sock Pattern is its versatility. Get creative and experiment with different colors and styles from your stash. It works with variegated, tonal, speckled, and even self striping yarns.

4. Does the yarn require special prep?
Wind your skeins of yarn into a center pull ball, or divide and wind into two equal weight balls. When working with two strands of the same color, work from both ends of the center pull ball, or from two separate balls.

5. Will these socks be warm enough for winter?
Definitely! These socks are thick and cozy, perfect for cold winter days. Think of them as a snug, colorful hug for your feet!

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Amanda Scheuzger Amanda Scheuzger

The Art of Mosaic Knitting: A Guide for Beginners

Are you ready to take a colorful knitting journey? If you're looking to add a touch of artistry and depth to your projects, then mosaic knitting might be just what you need.

This technique combines the simplicity of basic knitting stitches with the creativity of colorwork, resulting in visually stunning patterns that are sure to impress. Whether you're a beginner eager to learn something new or an experienced knitter looking to expand your repertoire, this guide will unlock the secrets of mosaic knitting and help you create beautiful, intricate designs. From understanding the essentials of color selection to mastering the techniques of slipped stitches, you'll discover how to bring your knitting to life with vibrant patterns and textures. Get ready to release your inner artist and take your knitting projects to new heights with the beauty of mosaic knitting.

Understanding the basics of mosaic knitting

Mosaic knitting is a technique that involves creating intricate patterns using two contrasting colors of yarn. Unlike traditional colorwork techniques such as Fair Isle or intarsia, mosaic knitting uses slipped stitches to create the illusion of complex colorwork without actually having to work with multiple strands of yarn at once. This makes it a perfect choice for beginners who want to experiment with color without feeling overwhelmed.

To get started with mosaic knitting, you'll need to have a basic understanding of stitches such as knit and purl stitched. The technique involves working with a main color (MC) and a contrasting color (CC). The MC forms the background of the pattern, while the CC is used to create the contrasting design elements. By slipping certain stitches and knitting or purling the rest, you can create beautiful geometric patterns that look much more complex than they actually are.

This beautiful diamond pattern looks like intricate colorwork, but is simply created with slipped stitches

Choosing the right yarn for mosaic knitting

When it comes to choosing yarn for mosaic knitting, there are a few factors to consider. First, you'll want to select colors that have a strong contrast with each other. This will ensure that your mosaic patterns stand out and create a visually striking effect. For example, pairing a light color with a dark color or a warm color with a cool color can create a beautiful contrast.

In addition to color contrast, it's also important to consider the fiber content and weight of the yarn. For mosaic knitting, it's generally best to choose a yarn with good stitch definition, as this will make your patterns more distinct. Yarns with a smooth texture are often a good choice.

Essential techniques for mosaic knitting

Now that you have your yarn ready, it's time to learn some essential techniques for mosaic knitting. The first technique you'll need to master is the slip stitch. When working in mosaic knitting, you'll be slipping certain stitches from the previous row without actually knitting or purling them. This creates the contrasting color effect and is what gives mosaic knitting its unique look.

To slip a stitch, simply insert your right needle into the stitch as if you were going to purl it, but instead of purling it, just slide it onto the right needle without working it. You'll then continue knitting or purling the next stitch as the pattern instructs. Slipping stitches in this way creates a stranded effect, where you have one color floating behind the other.

In mosaic knitting, you are typically working 2-row or 4-row stripes of each color with a pattern created by pulling contrasting color slipped stitches up from the rows below. This creates the illusion of colorwork without having to carry multiple strands of yarn. By following a mosaic knitting chart or pattern, you'll know exactly when and where to slip stitches to create the desired design.

Tips for reading mosaic knitting patterns

Reading mosaic knitting patterns can be a bit intimidating at first, but with a little practice, it will become second nature. Most mosaic knitting patterns are presented in the form of charts, which use symbols or colors to represent different stitches. Each square on the chart corresponds to one stitch, and the symbols or colors indicate whether to knit, purl, or slip the stitch. Often, the first square of right-side rows (along the right edge of the chart) represents the color to be used for that row of knitting. Any square in that row that is a different color would be slipped.

If you're new to reading charts, it can be helpful to start with a simple pattern and practice following along with the chart. As you become more familiar with the symbols and stitches, you'll find that reading mosaic knitting patterns becomes much easier and more intuitive.

Common mistakes to avoid in mosaic knitting

While mosaic knitting is a relatively straightforward technique, there are a few common mistakes that beginners often make. One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to slip stitches when they should be slipped. This can result in a distorted pattern and make it difficult to achieve the desired design.

Another common mistake is not maintaining an even tension throughout your work. When working mosaic patterns, it's important to ensure that the yarn being carried along the back of the work (behind the slipped stitches) is done so with an even tension. If it is pulled to tight, it can create an uneven fabric and distort the pattern. The more consecutive slipped stitches you have, the more you need to pay attention to you tension.

It's also important to pay attention to the stitch counts and pattern repeats. Missing or adding stitches can throw off the entire pattern and make it difficult to correct later on. Always double-check your stitch counts after each row to ensure that you're on track.

Exploring different mosaic knitting stitch patterns

Now that you have a solid understanding of the basics of mosaic knitting, it's time to explore different stitch patterns. Mosaic knitting offers endless possibilities for creating unique and eye-catching designs. From simple geometric patterns to intricate motifs, there's a mosaic stitch pattern out there for every skill level and aesthetic preference.

One popular mosaic knitting stitch pattern is the "brick stitch." This pattern creates a textured, brick-like effect and is perfect for adding depth and dimension to your projects . Another popular pattern is the "check stitch," which mimics the look of a checked fabric and adds a beautiful, touch to your knitting.

 

Brick Stitch Pattern

Check Stitch Pattern

 

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with combining different mosaic stitch patterns to create your own unique designs. By playing with color and pattern placement, you can create stunning works of art that are truly one-of-a-kind.

 
 

Project ideas for beginners in mosaic knitting

 

Now that you have a few mosaic knitting stitch patterns under your belt, it's time to put your skills to the test with some beginner-friendly projects. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Dishcloth: If you're looking for a quick and easy project, a mosaic knit dishcloth is a perfect choice. Choose a small, simple stitch pattern and create a set of colorful dishcloths to brighten up your kitchen. The Ballband Dishcloth is a classic entry level mosaic project. Like many knitters, this was my first mosaic project, knit in Peaches and Cream yarn.

2. Blanket: When you are ready to level up your mosaic knitting, try a slightly more involved stitch pattern. The Mosaic Blanket by Purl Soho is a great next project.

3. Cowl: One you are comfortable following mosaic patterning, you can try working mosaic in the round. My pattern By The Sea Cowl (see image right) has a simple shape with a variety of slip stitch patterns to keep it interesting.

By The Sea Cowl

 

Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to mosaic knitting. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different stitch patterns and color combinations.

Resources and further learning for mosaic knitting

If you're eager to dive deeper into the world of mosaic knitting, there are plenty of resources available to help you expand your skills and knowledge. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Books: There are several books dedicated to mosaic knitting that offer in-depth tutorials, stitch patterns, and project ideas. "Mosaic Knitting" by Barbara G. Walker is a highly recommended classic book for beginners. When you are ready for a challenge, try “Mosaic & Lace Knits” by Barbra Benson for some very inspiring and unique projects, this book is a favorite of mine.

2. Online tutorials: There are many online tutorials and video courses that can guide you through the process of mosaic knitting. YouTube is a great resource for finding step-by-step tutorials and demonstrations.

3. Practice, practice, practice: The best way to improve your mosaic knitting skills is to practice regularly. Start with small projects and gradually work your way up to more complex designs. With time and practice, you'll become more comfortable with the technique and be able to tackle more advanced projects.

Conclusion

Mosaic knitting is a fun technique that allows knitters to create beautiful, intricate designs with ease. By combining basic knitting stitches with the creativity of colorwork, you can unlock a whole new world of possibilities for your knitting projects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, mosaic knitting offers endless opportunities for artistic expression. So, grab your needles, choose some vibrant yarn, and let your creativity soar with mosaic knitting. Happy knitting!

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Amanda Scheuzger Amanda Scheuzger

Knit Happens: 2023's Most Exciting Knitting Trends

Knitting is a craft that never goes out of style, but that doesn't mean it can't be fresh and exciting! 2023 is shaping up to be a year full of fun and innovative knitting trends. Here is the lowdown on five fun knitting trends that are sure to spice up your yarn collection:


Trend #1: Chunky Knits

It's time to embrace your inner giant and knit yourself a sweater that's big enough to double as a blanket! That's right, I’m talking about chunky knits. Not only will these oversized knits keep you warm on even the coldest winter days, but the thicker yarn makes for a quick and satisfying knit. Don't be afraid to experiment with bold colors and textures to really make a statement. Below is a beautiful sweater from Knit Collage that I can’t wait to cast on.


Trend #2: Sustainable Yarns

More and more knitters are taking a sustainable approach to their craft. Look for yarns made from sustainable wool or recycled materials - not only is this better for the environment, but it also adds an extra layer of meaning to your knitting projects. I am a fan of this Responsible Wool Standard yarn from Shaniko Wool Co. and Knit Picks called High Desert.

 

Trend #3: Faux Fur Accents

Faux fur accents are a fun and playful way to add some extra flair to your knitting projects. Whether you're adding a fluffy pom-pom to your hat or a furry collar to your cardigan, these accents are sure to make you feel like a fashion icon. I especially love all of the beautiful colors faux fur colors available today!

 

Trend #4: Bright Colors

Why blend in when you were born to stand out? That's the philosophy behind the bright colors trend in 2023. Think Viva Magenta (Pantone’s 2023 color of the year), electric blue, and eye-searing yellow. These colors are sure to brighten up any dreary winter day.

Trend #5: The Oversized Sweater

These cozy and comfortable sweaters are perfect for lounging around at home or for adding a stylish touch to any outfit. The oversized fit provides a relaxed, effortless look that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and offers a comfortable and fashionable way to stay warm and cozy during the colder months. This trend almost makes me sad to see winter end.

There you have it, folks! Five knitting trends that are sure to put a smile on your face and a skip in your step. So grab your needles, stock up on yarn, and get knitting!

 
 
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Amanda Scheuzger Amanda Scheuzger

Tucker Pullover

A distinctive cable travels horizontally around the yoke of the otherwise spare and minimalistic pullover. This infinite cable is fun to work and fits neatly into the upper body circumference across sizes.

Yarn Tucker is worked in an aran weight yarn at 16 sts/24 rows over 4”/10 cm in stockinette stitch.  Shown in HiKoo Kenzington in Pavlova.

Size finished bust circumference 36 (40, 44, 48, 52)”.  Intended to be worn with 2" positive ease.

$7.00 , pattern PDF download

Published in the Fall 2015 issue of Interweave Knits Magazine, photo by Interweave Knits

View on Ravelry

View on Etsy

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Amanda Scheuzger Amanda Scheuzger

How to Choose the Best Yarn for Your Brioche Shawl

A white mannequin displaying a pink and gold handknit shawl  that features a leaf and floral brioche stitch pattern.
A white mannequin displaying a gradient teal-green handknit shawl  that features a leaf and floral brioche stitch pattern.

Creating a Floret Brioche Wrap is a joyful process that allows knitters to play with textures, colors, and patterns. One of the most critical steps in ensuring your shawl looks and feels great is picking the right yarn. This guide will help you choose the perfect yarn for your project, whether you're using hand-dyed yarn or exploring different blends.

Hand-Dyed Yarn for a Unique Touch

The first version of the Floret Brioche Wrap (the pink one above) I created used my own hand-dyed yarn. This is a single-ply base yarn in fingering weight, made of 100% Superwash Merino. This yarn has about 415 yards per 100 grams, making it perfect for shawl projects that need both softness and structure.

Gradient Yarn for Brioche

For the second version (the green one above), I used Marianated Yarns’ Scrumptious HT, a fingering weight yarn made from a springy 2-ply blend of superwash merino, cashmere, and nylon. With a high twist, this yarn provides structure and durability while maintaining a luxurious softness. It offers about 400 yards per 100 grams and is available in gradient kits from the Marianated Yarns website.

Yarn Characteristics for Brioche Patterns

Brioche stitch patterns, like the ones used in the Floret Shawl, can stretch more than typical knitting stitches. Here are some important considerations when selecting yarn:

  • Avoid overly slippery yarns: Slippery yarns can cause your brioche stitches to stretch excessively. Look for yarns that provide a bit more grip, such as those with a wool base.

  • Superwash wool yarns: Both of the yarns I used had superwash wool content, and the finished shawl had an excellent drape while maintaining its shape, even though superwash yarns may stretch more than non-superwash yarns.

  • Pattern structure: The triangular brioche leaf section of the Floret Shawl adds structure to help maintain the shawl's shape, even with yarns that may have more stretch.

close up view of a brioche knit swatch showing the difference between green foreground with white background and white foreground with green background.

Choosing the Right Colors for Your Shawl

Color choice is essential for a standout brioche pattern. Here are a few tips for selecting the best color combinations:

  1. High Contrast: Brioche patterns really pop when you choose contrasting colors. For example, the pink version of the shawl used low-contrast colors in the leaf section, but higher contrast for the floral edging, making the flower motifs stand out.

  2. Foreground and Background Colors: Typically, I prefer placing the lighter color in the foreground (LC) and the darker color in the background (DC). This makes the motifs appear more clearly defined. However, reversing the colors can also create a striking effect, depending on your color choices.

  3. Testing Contrast: To get an idea of how your colors will behave, try swatching both combinations. As seen in the green and white swatch, the appearance of contrast changes dramatically when switching the foreground and background roles. Darker colors tend to appear lighter when placed in the foreground.


Yarn Choices for Textures and Patterns

Tonal and speckled yarns work beautifully with brioche stitch patterns. In my shawls, I used lightly speckled and tonal yarns. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try a variegated yarn paired with a more subtle contrasting solid color to let the variegation shine without overpowering the brioche pattern.

Yardage Guidelines for the 3-Color Version

Below are the actual yarn amounts I used for the 3-color pink version of the Floret Brioche Shawl:

  • Foxglove (LC1): 140 grams / 581 yards

  • Marigold (DC1/LC4): 78 grams / 324 yards

  • Rosebud (DC4): 31 grams / 129 yards

Conclusion

Choosing the right yarn for your Floret Brioche Wrap is an exciting part of the knitting process. Whether you decide on hand-dyed yarn for its unique texture or go for a blend of merino and cashmere for extra softness, the key is to find something that works for both the pattern and your personal style. Don’t forget to play with colors and textures to make your shawl truly one-of-a-kind!

The Floret Wrap Pattern is available to purchase on both Raverly and Etsy.

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Amanda Scheuzger Amanda Scheuzger

Floret Wrap

 
floret-front-1med.jpg

Floret is a botanically inspired trapezoid shaped wrap that starts with a brioche leaf motif that transitions to a simple lace pattern and ends with a dramatic brioche flower edging.

 
 

floret-full-1-sm-w.jpg

There are two versions of this wrap in the pattern--a 3-color version and a 6-color gradient version.

The three color version was worked in a single-ply yarn from my HandmaineKnits yarn line available on Etsy, while the gradient version was worked in a 6 color gradient set of MCN yarn from Marianated Yarns.

The pattern is available in my Etsy shop, on Ravelry, and on LoveCraft’s.

 
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