Quality Time - Easy Scarf and Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so excited to introduce my new easy to knit blanket and scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn: Quality Time.

The Quality Time knitting pattern has instructions for five blanket sizes...plus two scarf sizes!

This design features a four row repeat pattern that is easy to knit.  This is a great pattern for any level of knitter, including a confident beginner.

Quality Time blanket and scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, LoveKnitting and Craftsy.

Quality Time scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

For me, quality time includes time spent with my family, an afternoon enjoying a favorite hobby (knitting!), an evening by the fire reading a good book or a morning walk with a good friend.   Any day that has a bit of quality time worked into it is a good day!

I made my scarf with two skeins of Malabrigo Rios in 'Bobby Blue'.  I bought this yarn at a cute shop in Fairfield, Iowa called At Home Store.  They have a beautiful selection of kitchen, home and baby gifts...as well as a lovely selection of yarn!  This scarf will remind me of one of my favorite days of 2018 when I got to spend some quality time with someone special.

Quality Time scarf knitting pattern - it's reversible!

REVERSIBLE!

The Quality Time knitting pattern design is reversible!  The stitch pattern is almost exactly the same on both sides.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR TWO SCARF SIZES + FIVE BLANKET SIZES:

The Quality Time knitting pattern includes instructions for five blanket sizes, plus two scarf sizes.

Approximate sizes after blocking...

Scarf: 8.75" wide x 63" long

Wide Scarf: 11.25" wide x 65" long

Baby Blanket: 28" wide x 30.5" long

Small (Crib/Lap) Blanket: 30" wide x 32.5" long

Medium Throw: 34" wide x 36.5" long

Large Throw: 38" wide x 42.5" long

XL Afghan: 42" wide x 46.5" long

It is very easy to make any of the sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about .5" to the length of the project.

Quality Time blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

The pattern instructions include estimates of how much additional yarn is required to add length to each project size.

Quality Time blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN:

This blanket pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn.  

Amount of yarn needed for each size:

Scarf: 410 - 420 yards

Wide Scarf: 570 - 600 yards

Baby Blanket: 680 - 700 yards

Small Blanket: 750 - 780 yards

Medium Throw: 960 - 1000 yards

Large Throw: 1250 - 1300 yards

XL Afghan: 1500 - 1600 yards

If you prefer super bulky weight yarn, please click here to see my Game Time knitting pattern.

Solid color or a subtle variegated or hand dyed style yarn is recommended to show the stitch pattern best.

For the scarf, shown in blue below, I used Malabrigo Rios in the colorway 'Bobby Blue'.  This yarn is gorgeous!  I used two skeins for a 8.75" wide x 63" long scarf. 

Knitting my 'Quality Time' scarf with Malabrigo Rios yarn.

For the blanket, I used Shepherd's Wool Superwash Worsted from Stonehedge Fiber Mill.  The colorway is 'Lakeshore'.  I love how this blanket worked up in this pretty yarn.  Great stitch definition! 

Finishing my 'Quality Time' blanket with Shepherd's Wool Superwash Worsted

KNITTING NEEDLES:

I used US size 9 knitting needles for my scarf and blanket.  Pick the needle size that works best for your yarn and knitting tension.  

Circular knitting needles are recommended for knitting a blanket in order to accommodate the large number of stitches. 

Straight needles may be used for either scarf size.

EASY KNITTING PATTERN:

The Quality Time blanket and scarf is very easy to knit!  

You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind off stitches and weave in ends.  The two stitch techniques in this design are garter stitch and a K1, P1 repeat (like used for ribbing).

A couple of stitch markers (ring and clip-on style) are helpful for keeping track of the pattern.

Quality Time - easy scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

BLOCKING RECOMMENDED:

I highly recommend blocking the finished blanket or scarf.  It really improves the shape and appearance of the finished knitting!  Click here to see my blog post with tips on blocking.

WHERE TO PURCHASE THE PATTERN:

Quality Time blanket and scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, LoveKnitting and Craftsy.  

I loved knitting the Quality Time blanket and scarf.  Winter weather has arrived in Kansas City.  I know I'll love wearing my new Quality Time many days this winter!

Have a wonderful day!  Happy knitting!

Mary Lee

Fifty Four Ten Studio

Game Time - New Chunky Blanket & Scarf Knitting Pattern

I'm so excited to introduce my new easy to knit chunky blanket (& scarf!) knitting pattern...Game Time.

The Game Time knitting pattern has instructions for six blanket sizes...plus a cozy, chunky scarf!

This design features a four row repeat pattern that is easy to knit.  This is a great pattern for any level of knitter, including a confident beginner.

Game Time blanket & scarf knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Etsy, Craftsy and LoveKnitting.

Game Time chunky blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

Game Time...is 8:00 a.m. on a crisp fall Saturday morning when parents and grandparents, bundled in coats, blankets and scarves, take their spot on the sidelines to cheer for the kids. 

Game Time...is a chilly afternoon in late November at the championship game where the bleachers are packed with fans...all huddled together for warmth...while the game is played in drizzle and snow.

Game Time...is relaxing at home on a Sunday afternoon...cuddled up under a warm blanket watching a favorite team on television.

Game Time...is pulling out an easy knitting project to enjoy making while watching the game.

The Game Time knitting pattern is very easy to knit while watching a game...or make a blanket or scarf to keep warm at the game!

Game Time chunky scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SCARF + SIX BLANKET SIZES:

The Game Time knitting pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes, plus a scarf.

Approximate sizes after blocking...

Scarf: 8.5" wide x 64" long

Baby Blanket: 30.5" wide x 33" long

Small (Crib/Lap) Blanket: 36" wide x 40" long

Medium Throw: 41" wide x 45" long

Large Throw: 44" wide x 49" long

XL Afghan: 47.5" wide x 54.5" long

XXL Afghan: 51.5" wide x 57" long

It is very easy to make any of the sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about 1" - 1.25" to the length of the project.

The pattern instructions include estimates of how much additional yarn is required to add length to size. 

Game Time blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

SUPER BULKY YARN:

This blanket pattern is designed for super bulky yarn.  

Amount of yarn needed for each size:

Scarf: 205 - 225 yards

Baby Blanket: 440 - 465 yards

Small Blanket: 630 - 660 yards

Medium Throw: 800 - 850 yards

Large Throw: 970 - 1020 yards

XL Afghan: 1200 - 1250 yards

XXL Afghan: 1350 - 1450 yards

Solid color yarn is recommended to show the stitch pattern best.

Click here to see my worsted weight version of this design - Quality Time scarf and blanket knitting pattern.

I used Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in 'Mustard' for the blanket and 'Pumpkin' for the scarf.  I loved using these fall inspired colors...they are beautiful!  I have used Wool-Ease Thick & Quick for many chunky knitting pattern designs.  There's a reason why I return to this yarn again and again...great color choices, dependable quality and great stitch definition.  The yarn is an acrylic / wool blend that has a pleasing 'woolly' feel.  Some of my favorite colorways in the Wool-Ease Thick & Quick are 'Denim' (dusty dark blue), 'Glacier' (icy blue) and 'Fisherman' (classic ivory).

If you prefer a softer yarn without any wool content...this project would work great with Lion Brand Hometown USA.  If you prefer a more neutral colorway...I'm a big fan of 'Dallas Gray'...which I used for my Westport Blanket knitting pattern.  

REVERSIBLE!

The Game Time pattern design is reversible!  The stitch pattern does not appear exactly the same on both sides but it looks attractive on both sides.

Game Time knitting pattern - it looks great on both sides!

EASY KNITTING PATTERN:

The Game Time blanket and scarf is very easy to knit!  

You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind off stitches and weave in ends.  The two stitch techniques in this design are garter stitch and a K1, P1 repeat (like used for ribbing).

A couple of stitch markers (ring and clip-on style) are helpful for keeping track of the pattern.

WHERE TO PURCHASE THE PATTERN:

Game Time blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry.  

The pattern is also available on Etsy, Craftsy and LoveKnitting.

Game Time chunky blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

We're enjoying an absolutely beautiful fall here in Kansas City....gorgeous fall color and bright sunny days.  I've enjoyed knitting on the deck and taking walks everyday to soak up all the pretty fall colors.  

I loved knitting the Game Time blanket and scarf...inspired by the beauty of fall and the fun of going to a game. 

Have a wonderful day!  Happy knitting!

Mary Lee

Fifty Four Ten Studio

Window Seat - Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so happy to introduce my new blanket knitting pattern - Window Seat.

Window Seat blanket is easy to knit with worsted weight yarn.  The pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE NAME OF THE PATTERN:

The window seat at my grandmother's house stretched across the entire width of the living room.  The built in bench...with well loved, upholstered cushions...was the perfect spot for reading a book or playing cards.  In my memories, my sweet grandmother is there sitting next to me and we're each sketching the view of the lake.  In the evening, we watched the sunset and the view evolved from a bright glow of orange to a varying rainbow of colors.  It was always a different scene from one evening to the next...the colors changing with the clouds.  Each night, as the sky grew darker, the old windows over the window seat were transformed to a wall of glistening, inky dark blue...and we played cards late into the night.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

SIX BLANKET SIZES:
The Window Seat blanket knitting pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

Approximate sizes after blocking:

Baby Blanket: 28" wide x 32.25" long
Small Crib/Lap Blanket: 31.25" wide x 36" long
Medium Throw: 34.5" wide x 37.25" long
Large Throw: 37.75" wide x 41" long
XL Throw: 41" wide x 43.5" long
XXL Afghan: 44.25" wide x 48.5" long

It's very easy to make any of the blanket sizes longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds approximately 1.25" to the length of the blanket.  The pattern includes estimates of how much additional yarn is needed to make each size longer.

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern - easy to knit with worsted weight yarn.

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN:

This pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn.  It would also work well with slightly heavier or lighter weight yarn such as Aran or DK weight yarn.

I used Malabrigo Rios Pure Merino Superwash in the 'Azul Profundo' colorway.  This yarn is gorgeous!  It's very soft and machine washable...and the selection of beautiful colorways is outstanding.

Amount of yarn needed for each blanket size:

Baby: 750 - 770 yards
Small: 920 - 950 yards
Medium: 1020 - 1060 yards
Large: 1250 - 1300 yards
XL: 1420 - 1470 yards
XXL: 1750 - 1850 yards

The pattern includes estimates of how much additional yarn is needed to make each size longer.

Window Seat blanket - easy to knit with worsted weight yarn.

KNITTING NEEDLES:

I used US size 9 circular knitting needles with Malabrigo Rios yarn.  I used some older metal circular knitting needles that I've had for years.

The blanket is knit flat, in one piece so circular knitting needles are essential for holding a large number of stitches.

My favorite metal tipped circular knitting needles that I've purchase recently for other projects are Knitter's Pride Nova Plantina circular needles.  The cord does not curl or twist!

Pick the needle size that works best for your yarn and knitting tension.  The only way to confirm which needle size will be the best for your project is to do a little test knitting.  Test knit by casting on about 25 stitches and working in garter stitch for a couple inches.  The yarn label should have a suggested needle size...that's always a good place to start.  If you think your stitches are too loose, change to one needle size smaller.  If you think your stitches are too tight, move to one needle size larger.

For this blanket pattern, exact gauge is not essential.  Focus on the appearance of your knitting with your yarn.  Pick the needle size that works best for you.

SKILL LEVEL:

This is a very easy knitting pattern.  It's a great pattern for any level of knitter from a confident beginner to an experienced knitter who enjoys a relaxing project.

You will need to know how to cast on stitches (I use long tail cast-on method but another method can work also), knit and purl confidently, change back and forth from knit to purl in the middle of a row, read a row by row knitting pattern, transition to a new ball of yarn, cast off stitches and weave in ends.

Even though it is an easy pattern, some ring style stitch markers are very helpful to keep track of the pattern!  You will save a lot of time counting stitches if you place some ring style markers where the pattern indicates to change from knit to purl.  I used Clover stitch markers.

Blocking of the finished blanket is suggested but not essential.  See my blog post for blocking tips.

Ring style stitch markers are helpful to keep track of the pattern.

WHERE TO GET THE PATTERN:

Window Seat blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Craftsy, LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Window Seat - easy to knit blanket pattern for worsted weight yarn.

I'm soaking up some beautiful fall days...I love the cool temperatures, crunching leaves on morning walks, yellow mums planted by the front porch, pumpkin spice tea, the smell of apple crisp baking in the oven...all the scents and feels are so lovely!

Have a wonderful day!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio

Piece of Home - Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so happy to introduce my new blanket knitting pattern - Piece of Home.

This blanket pattern is designed for worsted weight yarn.  The pattern may also be used with similar weight yarns.

Piece of Home blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Craftsy LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Piece of Home blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE NAME OF THE PATTERN:

They say that a smell can bring back strong memories.  For me, it's often a color that triggers memories.  When I opened the box with this beautiful olive shade of yarn I was immediately transported back to my childhood home and flooded with vivid memories of my family's favorite room in our home.  (If you have been following my blog for a while you may recall that I had a similar reaction with a beautiful blue yarn!)

While most of my childhood home was decorated in my mother's favorite color blue, there was one exception.  The 'den', or family room, was the one space that featured the popular earthy shades of the 1970's...with the comfy chairs covered in olive colored corduroy fabric.  The den was the tiniest room in the house where I watched TV after school, played games (Monopoly and Mastermind were two of my favorites!), and worked on art projects on a large cardboard storage box that served as my 'art desk'.

As I finished up this design it dawned on me...the den, with the well loved, olive green chairs, was the room where my mother taught me how to knit when I was about eight years old.

Working on this blanket design brought back so many special childhood memories.  For me, it's a piece of home.

SIX BLANKET SIZES:
The pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

Approximate sizes after blocking...

Baby Blanket: 29.25" wide x 32" long
Small Crib/Lap Blanket: 31.75" wide x 37" long
Medium Throw: 34" wide x 44.5" long
Large Throw: 38.75" wide x 47" long
XL Afghan: 41" wide x 49.5" long
XXL Afghan: 45.75" wide x 54.5" long

It's easy to make any of the blanket sizes longer (or shorter) by adjusting the number of pattern repeats.  Each additional pattern repeat adds about 2.5" to the overall length of the blanket.  The pattern includes estimates for how much additional yarn is needed to make each blanket size longer.

Piece of Home - blanket knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn.

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN:

I used Cloudborn Superwash Merino Worsted Twist for this pattern design.

Amount of yarn needed for each blanket size:

Baby: 700 - 720 yards
Small: 870 - 900 yards
Medium: 1060 - 1100 yards
Large: 1350 - 1400 yards
XL: 1500 - 1550 yards
XXL: 1800 - 1900 yards

I used US size 8 knitting needles and my gauge in stockinette stitch with this yarn was about 17 stitches x 24 rows = 4" (after blocking and allowing the knitting to relax).

Keep in mind that the amount of yarn needed could vary if your gauge is significantly different.

The pattern can easily be adapted for yarn that is slightly heavier or lighter weight.  Just pick the needle size that works best for your yarn and knitting tension.

If you are interested in using super bulky weight yarn, see my Belleview Blanket knitting pattern.

Circular knitting needles are recommended to accommodate the large number of stitches.

The texture of this pattern will show up best with a solid color yarn.

Piece of Home - blanket knitting pattern - easy to knit!

CLOUDBORN SUPERWASH MERINO WORSTED TWIST:

I made my Piece of Home blanket using Cloudborn Superwash Merino Worsted Twist in the colorway 'Olive'.  This yarn is sold exclusively by Craftsy. This yarn is 100% superwash wool and it's lovely!  I am very please with how this yarn knits up!  The yarn is available in a beautiful selection of more than 30 colorways.  Each skein has about 220 yards and the price is very reasonable for this generous yardage (about $13.00 per skein...or less if on sale).

Knitting my 'Piece of Home' blanket with Cloudborn Superwash Merino Worsted Twist

WHERE TO GET THE PATTERN:

Piece of Home blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Craftsy, LoveKnitting and Etsy.

Piece of Home - blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

Thanks so much for reading!  Have a wonderful day!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio

Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern - updated!

I'm happy to announce that I have updated one of my favorite blanket knitting patterns - Stones in the Road.  The updated pattern includes new photos and instructions for six sizes!

The Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry, Craftsy, LoveKnitting  and in my Etsy shop.

Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

INSPIRATION FOR THE PATTERN NAME:

The name for my Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern was inspired by a beautiful fall day spent biking the Katy Trail in Missouri.  The trail was built on an old railroad right-of-way which is paved with crushed stones...stones in the road.  I happened to bike the trail for the first time in the fall of 2016....when I was working on this blanket design.  Here's a photo of the Katy Trail:

Katy Trail - bike path in Missouri

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SIX SIZES:

The Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern includes instructions for six blanket sizes.

Approximate blanket sizes after blocking...

Baby Blanket: 29" wide x 29" long

Small (Crib/Lap) Blanket: 35" wide x 39" long

Medium Throw: 37.75" wide x 46.5" long

Large Throw: 41.25" wide x 51.5" long

XL Afghan: 49" wide x 59" long

XXL Afghan: 53.5" wide x 61.5" long

It is very easy to make any of the blankets longer by adding additional pattern repeats.  Each pattern repeat adds about 2.5" to the length of the blanket.

The instructions include estimates of how much additional yarn is required to add length to each blanket size. 

SUPER BULKY YARN:

This blanket pattern is designed for super bulky yarn.  For the gray blanket in the photos...I used Sprightly Acrylic Wool Super Bulky sold exclusively by Craftsy.  This yarn is available in a beautiful selection of colors. I love this 'Grey Heather' colorway! The stitch definition for this yarn is excellent!  The yarn is a machine washable wool / acrylic blend that has a 'woolly' feel and is very sturdy.  The yarn seems to soften up a bit after washing. 

Yarn needed for each blanket size:

Baby: 350 - 370 yards

Small: 550 - 590 yards

Medium: 740 - 770 yards

Large: 880 - 930 yards

XL: 1170 - 1270 yards

XXL: 1450 - 1550 yards

Solid color yarn is recommended to show the stitch pattern best.

Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern - knit with super bulky yarn.

EASY BLANKET KNITTING PATTERN:

The Stones in the Road blanket is very easy to knit!  You will need to know how to cast on stitches, knit and purl confidently, read a row by row knitting pattern, bind of stitches and weave in ends.  The two stitch techniques in this design are stockinette stitch and seed stitch.

A couple of stitch markers are helpful for keeping track of the pattern.

I used Sprightly Acrylic Wool Super Bulky in the color 'Grey Heather'. 

I recommend blocking the finished blanket.  This takes a bit of time but it really improves the appearance of the blanket.  For tips on blocking...see this blog post.

Stones in the Road - chunky blanket knitting pattern

WHERE TO PURCHASE THE PATTERN:

Stones in the Road blanket knitting pattern is available on Ravelry.  This pattern is also available on Craftsy, LoveKnitting and in my Etsy shop.

Have a wonderful day!  Happy knitting!

Mary Lee

Fifty Four Ten Studio

Stay on the Ridge - New Blanket Knitting Pattern

I'm so happy to introduce my new blanket pattern - Stay on the Ridge.

This blanket knitting pattern is easy to knit with worsted weight (or similar) yarn.  The design features a seed stitch border and an easy to remember 8-row repeat pattern for the center of the blanket.

Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern is available on FiftyFourTenStudio.com, Ravelry, Etsy, and LoveKnitting.

Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio

Click here to see the updated version of this blog post on my new website FiftyFourTenStudio.com.

INSPIRATION FOR THE NAME OF PATTERN

The name for my Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern is inspired by the historic wagon trails that crossed through what is now known as Kansas City...my hometown.

In the early 1800’s the Santa Fe Trail served as the ‘road’ to transport goods back and forth from the Kansas City area to Santa Fe, New Mexico, both central hubs for supplies.  Without railroads, the only way to transport goods was by covered wagon.  A well-worn rut in the earth showed travelers the way across the 900 mile trail (60+/- days of travel!) through Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico.  Traders from Kansas City packed their wagons with items to trade - popular items included cloth such as calico, chambray, flannel, gingham, linen and muslin, as well as needles, thread and buttons. From Santa Fe, the traders brought home silver coins, processed gold, wool, and mules. 

Can you imagine traveling across the country in a covered wagon?  Remaining safe through the entire trip was a tremendous challenge: inclement weather, starvation, dehydration, illness, wild animals...these were just some of the pitfalls they faced.  Bumping along over rocks, navigating across creeks and small rivers - there were spots on the trail where the wagon trains had to stay on the ridge to avoid rough terrain and muddy low spots.

As I designed this blanket I thought about this phrase: stay on the ridge.  When traveling by covered wagon it meant staying safe on the trail, but the phrase is good advice for life… even today.  Stay safe, stay out of trouble, avoid pitfalls, and take the high road.  

Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn.

SIX BLANKET SIZES

Approximate blanket sizes after blocking:

Baby Blanket: 28.5" wide x 33.25" long
Small Crib/Lap Blanket: 31.75" wide x 36" long
Medium Throw: 35" wide x 47" long
Large Throw: 38.25" wide x 48.5" long
XL Afghan: 41.25" wide x 50" long
XXL Afghan: 48" wide x 52.5" long

It's easy to make any of the blanket sizes longer (or shorter) by adjusting the number of pattern repeats.  Each additional pattern repeat adds about 1.25" - 1.5" to the overall length of the blanket.  The pattern includes estimates for how much additional yarn is needed to make each size longer.

Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern

WORSTED WEIGHT YARN

I used worsted weight yarn for this pattern.  The pattern can be easily adapted for yarn that is slightly heavier or lighter.  Just pick the needle size that works best for your yarn and knitting tension.

Amount of yarn needed for each blanket size:

Baby: 610 - 650 yards
Small: 740 - 790 yards
Medium: 1050 - 1100 yards
Large: 1200 - 1270 yards
XL: 1360 - 1440 yards
XXL: 1630 - 1730 yards

Keep in mind that the amount of yarn needed could vary if your gauge is significantly different.

I used US 9 knitting needles and my gauge in stockinette stitch with this yarn was about 15 stitches x 21 rows = 4" (after blocking and allow the knitting to relax).

Circular knitting needles are recommended to accommodate the large number of stitches.

The texture of this pattern will show up best with a solid color yarn.

If you are interested in using super bulky weight yarn...see my Flint Hills Blanket knitting pattern which uses the same stitch design.

Stay on the Ridge blanket - texture shows up best with solid color yarn.

PLYMOUTH SELECT WORSTED MERINO SUPERWASH

I made my Stay on the Ridge blanket with Plymouth Select Worsted Merino Superwash that I bought at The Yarn Shop & More in Overland Park, Kansas.  This cute yarn shop is just a few miles from my house.

I love how this earthy shade called 'Gravel' fit with the theme for this design...both in name and color!  And...I love this yarn!  It's very soft and has a pleasing springy texture.  It was a pleasure to use for this project and I will look forward to using it again.

Plymouth Select Worsted Merino Superwash in 'Gravel' colorway.

I worked on this blanket in April when the crab apple trees bloomed in our backyard.  I cut a few branches packed with pretty pink blooms to enjoy indoors...

I loved knitting my 'Stay on the Ridge' blanket!

WHERE TO GET THE PATTERN

Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern is available to purchase on FiftyFourTenStudio.com, Ravelry, Etsy, and LoveKnitting.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

Warm spring weather has arrived in Kansas City so I have been enjoying time outside.  It's a great time of year to eat dinner outside on the deck!  And, I love meeting friends to go for a walk, especially when we meet at one of our local parks and enjoy views of beautiful gardens, flowering trees and famous Kansas City fountains.  The tulips were in full bloom the day we visited the Kauffman Gardens a few weeks ago...

Kauffman Gardens in Kansas City, Missouri - May 2018

Thanks so much for stopping by and for reading!

Happy knitting!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio

Stay on the Ridge blanket knitting pattern

25+ Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Knitters

Looking for a gift for a knitter....here's some ideas!  If you are looking for a gift idea for a birthday, Mother's Day...or just a little treat for yourself...here's a list of over 25 thoughtful gifts for knitters.

I've been keeping a running list of ideas for knitting related gifts for a long time.  Scraps of paper with notes about items I've admired are tucked between other papers on my desk, my 'Gifts for Knitters' Pinterest board has accumulated many ideas, and I've taken more than a few screenshots of interesting gift ideas on Instagram ....now I'm finally merging those lists and picking my favorite gift ideas to include in this blog post!

25+ Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Knitters

These are my favorite gifts for knitters (narrowed down from a much longer list) that I have either purchased or admired over the last couple of years.

I've included approximate prices currently listed for the items.  These are meant to give you an idea but, of course, the price (and availability of items) could change!  All links are to a website or Etsy shop that sells the item.  

I do not have a connection to any of the businesses listed in this post. All photos were taken by me...unless specified.

Bags - Knitters Love Project Bags!

There are many knitting project bags available...these are my favorites!

Fringe Supply Company 'Field Bag' - Fringe Supply Company's sturdy canvas bags are quite popular!  Beautiful, classic, functional design. (about $65)  This bag is on my wish list!

'Knitting Necessities' Tote Bag by Fringe Supply Company - cute, humorous screen printed tote bag at an affordable gift-giving price. (about $20)

'Maker Essentials' Notions Bag by Ozetta on Etsy - natural canvas little notions bag with cute 'makers essentials' screen printed design. (about $10)

Books

Look for any of these books at your local yarn shop or book store.  (Links provided for Amazon.)

Stories about knitting...

The Yarn Harlot: Secret Life of a Knitter by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee - the first in a series of books filled with humorous and poignant essays about her love of knitting and yarn.  I've enjoyed all of her books! (about $15)

Knitlandia: A Knitter Sees the World by Clara Parkes - a book of essays reflecting on memorable journeys and experiences with knitters around the world.  I love the cover art!  (about $15)

'Knitlandia' by Clara Parkes

Knitting Ephemera: A Compendium of Articles, Useful and Otherwise, for the Edification and Amusement of the Handknitter by Carol J. Sulcoski - don't let the long title overwhelm you!  This little book is packed with tidbits and fun-facts about knitting. (about $15)

'Knitting Ephemera' by Carol J. Sulcoski

Great reference books...

The Knitter's Book of Knowledge: A Complete Guide to Essential Knitting Techniques by Debbie Bliss - this is a big book packed with just about everything you need to know about how to knit...casting on, knit and purl, cable knitting, casting off, advanced knitting techniques, and more.  It's a valuable reference book for the beginning or somewhat experienced knitter. (about $25 - $30)

The Knitter's Book of Knowledge by Debbie Bliss

Vogue Knitting The Ultimate Knitting Book: Completely Revised and Updated  The essential knitting reference book was updated in 2018 to include even more about knitting.  "From beginners needing to learn the very basics to seasoned knitters wanting a refresher on a complex technique, every knitter will cherish this guide for years to come."  I own the previous edition...this book really is the ultimate book about knitting! (about $35 - $40)

Mastering Color Knitting: Simple Instructions for Stranded, Intarsia and Double Knitting by Melissa Leapman - the is a great 'how to' book for any knitter who wants to learn all they can about using multiple colors of yarn in their knitting projects.  I own this book...it's a great resource! (about $20)

'Mastering Color Knitting' by Melissa Leapman

Magazines

Vogue Knitting - it's the knitting magazine that's been around forever!

Making Magazine - this lovely publication has two issues each year.  The high quality magazine includes beautiful patterns for a variety of crafts (mostly knitting) all wrapped up in an inspiring, keep for the long-term, high quality book-like magazine. (2 issues per year about $50)  You can also purchase back issues on their website. (about $25 each)

Making Magazine - two issues per year - it's lovely!

Jewelry

Wood Knit Stitches Earrings by Katrinkles - these earrings are unique and beautiful! (about $15)

Sheep Earrings by One Happy Leaf on Etsy - a cute little sheep silhouette is laser cut from honey brown bamboo wood. Made in Australia. (under $20)

"Knit" and "Purl" hand stamped silver earrings from sparklegarden on Etsy - silver earrings with 'knit' stamped on one earring and 'purl' stamped on the other. So cute! (about $25)

"Knit" silver earrings by rosetwistllc on Etsy.  Check out rosetwistllc's shop for other knitting and yarn themed jewelry, hair barrettes, shawl pins, etc.  (about $20 - $40)  Photo below provided by Rosetwistllc. 

"Knit" silver earrings by Rosetwistllc on Etsy

Keep Calm and Carry Yarn pendant necklace from ThePendantEmporium on Etsy. (about $10)


Knitting Tools: Notions, Scissors, Yarn Bowls, etc.

Beautiful Wood Yarn Bowl by IdeasInWood on Etsy - these 'bowls' are really wooden boxes that look absolutely stunning.  (around $75+)

'Knitters Rule' Wood Gauge Tool by Katrinkles on Etsy - such a pretty and functional gauge tool!  I love all of her pretty bamboo buttons, too!  (about $10)

Sheep Scissors - little project scissors for clipping yarn from Barrett Wool Co. (about $11)

For the Knitter's Home

"Knitted" Notions Dish or a "Knitted" Coffee Mug handmade by CreativeWithClay on Etsy - the texture of knitting stitches in clay!  ($28 - $50)

"Knitter's Eye Chart" Poster Art by ILiveOnAFarm on Etsy - this 12" x 18" art poster is a creative twist on the traditional eye chart - designed using knitting terms and abbreviations. (about $25)

Just for Fun! Pins, Stickers & T-shirts:

"Knitrovert" Enamel Pin from MakersMerch on Etsy - it's a little blue flag pin for all of us who are introverted knitters....or knitroverts! These are brand new as of April 2018...I just received mine in the mail! (under $10)

'Knitrovert' Flag Pin - Gift for Knitters

Knitting Sheep Enamel Pin from Knit Picks - a cute little sheep knitting! (under $10)

"Knit Girl" Vinyl Car Decal by AbbysVinylWallArt on Etsy.  Whimsical and cute design!  If you love another crafts...check out her other designs in her shop. (under $10)

"Love to Knit" t-shirt from DesignsbyKimW on Etsy - cute screen print design!  (about $20)

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Other ideas...

A free gift...the gift of your time!  Simply make plans to spend time with your favorite knitter....even if you don't knit, they will enjoy spending time with you!  Or, offer to do the chores around the house for your favorite knitter...so they can spend time relaxing and knitting. :)

If you want to splurge on the knitter in your life...treat them to a shopping trip to their local yarn store.  Let them pick out their favorite yarn for a project for themselves. (Plan on at least $50 - $100 for the shopping spree!)  It's really hard to buy yarn for someone else so this is a case where it's nice to let them do their own shopping.

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I hope you enjoy this list and discover interesting gift ideas to celebrate the knitter(s) in your life.

When I discover new gift ideas I'll add them to this post!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Mary Lee
Fifty Four Ten Studio