Gift Knitting

All of my Christmas gift knitting is finished, or at least I think it is complete. I made earflap hats for my great-niece and great-nephew. They both live in Minnesota and like being outdoors, so these double wool earflap hats should see a lot of wear.

My great-niece loves to play hockey, so the Thorpe hat was the perfect pattern for her. I didn't have any real issues with the pattern. Instead of adding braids to the hat, I added i-cords because they will be more sturdy. Not being a crocheter, I struggled with the edging, but with the help of the internet and a how-to video, I managed. The only "problem" with the pattern is the garter edge has a distinct line where the rows meet. After I finished I read about a jogless garter stitch on Kathryn Ivy. If you are interested in making a Thorpe, I advise that you use the jogless technique. 

It was a struggle to find a good pattern from my great-nephew, who is two years old. Most of the earflap patterns I found were for adults, teens, or babies. I tried several patterns, only to frog because they were too large or too small. Finally, I discovered a pattern by Kristina at Yarnsticks that was designed for 2 - 3 year olds. The pattern is written for chunky yarn, so I used two strands of worsted weight, and I am pleased with the result. 

I still have two gifts to prepare, but they will not be knitted.