Christmas is in the air...
I was feeling a bit nostalgic today while I prepared just one of many final gifts for Christmas. With sweet holiday music playing, a cup of hot tea and a very large stack of yarn I began my project.
My, how time flies…
I remember hearing my grandmother say the same thing. In in fact she warned me it would fly faster with each passing year. Of course as a child, time seemed to crawl! One hour, seemed a lifetime when you were waiting for the school bell to ring, lol. Not so now! Just last year I was doing the same thing at this time. Arm-knitting blankets for my daughters for Christmas. Arm-knitting you say? Yes, knitting using your arms as knitting needles. I’m not crazy…just stand by! You’ll see!
With 12 skeins of Couture chunky yarn…
I settled into the most comfortable chair I could find. I knew this project would take about 3-4 hours, comfort was a necessity. With the first skein in hand, I began casting stitches on to my right arm.. 24 to be exact! Remembering my arms were only so long…24 was just about my max!
I can’t take credit for this!
I’ve tried knitting through the years but never really enjoyed it until I discovered this technique. I think it’s quite clever actually, just you and a soft skein of yarn! Check out this video. Maggie does an amazing job walking you through each step. Although she’s able to make these blankets in 45 minutes, I find it takes me at least 3 hours. Knitting back to the left arm we were on our way.
Tightly knotting…
is critical! Last year I was so afraid I would break the yarn I didn’t double knot the new tails well. Not good!
Seeing progress…
about ten rows, it’s beginning to look like something! I thought about the many sewing projects I tried with my Grandmother. She was such a patient and loving teacher; attempting to teach crocheting, knitting and hand stitching to a very active granddaughter. I was of course all thumbs, needles flying in all directions.
My daughter loved…
her blanket so much she asked for a 2nd! Colorado winters can be quite chilly. I may find myself wrapped in this blanket over the holidays!
80 degrees...
Is not the optimal temperature for knitting a blanket. Never fear! Mr. Bird came to the rescue, and with the ceiling fan on high I pushed on! Singing along with those old Christmas favorites the time flew by!
Complete!
What do you think? You know I love sharing gifts from the heart! I think she’ll be pleased.
Warm and wooly gifts made with Love!
Nothing makes me happier than to spend a bit of time making something which might bring a smile to someone else. I think my grandmother would be smiling right now, perhaps surprised I tried again. Giving to family, friends and often some I don’t even know, is what brings joy into my life. It’s my purpose! I pray this season brings joy and peace to all of you. Thank you for stopping by today!
And as always, blessings to you all!