The Spindrift shawl was a free pattern download offered by designer Helen Stewart. I appreciate having something like this crescent shawl pattern to practice on. The pattern is fairly simple, but I did learn how to do a picot edge bind-off. You can read more about how I came to be knitting this shawl on my first post here.
The fingering yarn I chose to use was from Miss Babs, in one of the Wild Iris, Yummy-2ply colors named “Sorcerer”. It closely matches the colors in the designers image of the finished shawl, and I thought hers was lovely.
To go with Sorcerer, I chose a lavender color yarn from Mrs. Crosby called “Monkey Orchid”. I will use that color to finish the edge.
Shawl yarn from Miss Babs in fingering weight, and lavender DK by Mrs. Crosby
Notes on the Finished Shawl
I had to reference a video about making the picot edging. (Find it on my Day 2 blog post.)
I knew I would probably not have enough yarn because my skein was shorter than the recommended length. The lavender color was attached for the picot edging and once I got the hang of that bind-off, it went quickly.
Still left, the weaving in of ends, washing and blocking. I have never blocked anything, but I have the boards to do it with. My time is taken up with the MKAL I am working on (and am behind!). So this shawl will have to wait.
The Spindrift Shawl is finishedThe lavender picot edging
Finally I found the photos of this finished shawl. This was a very good beginner pattern with practice for yarn-overs and doing a picot edge. It’s a small shawl so it knits up fast. Download the Spindrift pattern when you sign up for the Curious Handmade workshop. See details here.
Pictures of my hat and scarf made using Malabrigo yarn in Rasta bulky “arco iris” color way.
I had been wanting to knit something using a bulky yarn. I came across the “Rasta” yarn somewhere and decided to jump in and buy it. What I would decide to make came later. Although I wasn’t too sure about the colors, I certainly love the feel of the Rasta bulky yarn by Malabrigo. I decided to knit a simple hat and scarf.
Bulky hat and scarf
Two balls of “Arco Iris” Malabrigo yarn, bulky
The hat and scarf in my photo was knit using only 2 skeins, but for a longer scarf, I suggest one more. The only issue I had with this yarn is the color. I received 2 skeins of the same color name, “Arco Iris”, and as you can see in my photo, the colors are quite different. One skein I liked, and the other was darker. I know this can happen with hand-dyed yarn. I used the “pretty skein” for the hat, and the darker one for the scarf, along with the hat yarn leftovers. Have faith, this color yarn looks better once it’s turned into an item and the soft, plush feel is a joy to work with. If you can shop locally and see the yarn, I suggest doing that. I have to order online.
How to Knit This Simple Hat
Yarn used: For the hat, I used less than one skein of Malabrigo’s Rasta yarn in “Arco Iris”.
For this hat I used size 13 – 16 inch circular needles and size 13 DPN’s. Cast on 48 + 1 , then slip the last stitch to the left needle and knit the first 2 stitches together to join in the round – make sure there is no twisting of stitches. This gives you a total of 48 on the needles. Or simply cast on 48 and go from there.
The pattern is simply knit one, purl one around to desired height, then do decreases at the top.
How to Decrease at Top of Hat
Knit around until hat measures about 7 inches – more or less for size needed.
Decrease rows: 1. *k1, p1 (twice), k2tog*, do that 8 times. 2. Knit around 3. *k3, k2tog* around 4. Knit around 5. *k2, k2tog* around 6. k2tog around Cut yarn long enough and pull through remaining loops and weave in to finish off.
Finished circumference approx. 19 inches, height is 9.5 inches.
It could have a pompom on top if you like that look.
Hat completed, with yarn left over. Use less than one full skein.
How to Make the Scarf
I used US size 9 straight needles. End measurements, 7 inches wide by 40 inches long – used all remaining yarn. I used one full skein, and the leftover ball from the hat. (See photo above.) This is a short scarf, so I suggest using 2 full skeins, or more, if you make it wider and want something longer.
Cast on using the Cable Cast on, which is like a basic cast on, but put the needle under both both strands of yarn. I have a page with videos of various cast-on methods, if you need help. Cast on 14, or any even number.
Repeats are between the *stars*.
K2, *p1, k1* to last 2 stitches, p2 Next row and all rows: With yarn in back, slip 1 purl wise to begin the row. Each row ends with a purl and begins with a slip purl wise . Doing this makes a neater edge. *K1b (knit one below), p1*, to the last stitch, p1.
Continue until the yarn runs out and bind off (before you run out, obviously!).
Be sure to hand wash any items made with this yarn.
Rasta yarn knits up into plush wearables.
I am now working on a similar (but longer) scarf in white Rasta yarn.
Washable Bulky Yarn
When I began knitting with the Rasta yarn I fell in love with the squishy feel and the color changes. Unfortunately this yarn must be hand-washed which can be tricky when the item is large – like a long scarf. The tough part is letting it dry. It must be laid out somewhere for a couple of days because of the bulkiness.
Knitting a white Rasta scarf
I finished the white scarf shown above (same pattern as the other scarf on this page) and gave it to my son’s girlfriend for Christmas, but I included a note that she had to hand-wash. I felt guilty about giving her something that would be a bit challenging to care for.
Between now and then I have found yarn that is similar to the Rasta but can be machine washed.
“Franca” by Manos del Uruguay is 100% superwash merino wool. I have a skein which I have not used yet, but I love Manos yarn. It is similar in look and feel of the Rasta by Malibrigo. You can find Franca yarn at Purl Soho in pretty colors, or search for a sale. I bought mine cheaper at Etsy but there were only 3 color choices.
“Fire” by Wool Addicts is a yarn that is new to me, but is now on the top of my list of favorite bulky yarns. I’m using it in dark gray to make the Winter Morning ear-warmer. It is a Superwash yarn made in Italy and it is so soft and lovely.
Once I use the yarns listed here and wash them, I will post an update.
Basics For Machine-Washing Hand-Knit Items
By machine-washed, I mean put into a zippered laundry bag made of mesh and tossed into the washing machine. Tossing an item in with the regular load of laundry could stretch it out. I suppose socks and hats might do okay, but personally I would always use a mesh bag. And most knits must still be dried flat. I’ve seen very few nice yarns that can safely go into the dryer.
Yarn is usually pretty dirty, and sometimes the color will bleed quite a lot in a first wash. This happened to me while washing the Fine Sand sweater. Usually Miss Bab’s yarn does not bleed color, but the “Tarte” I used certainly did. I was glad I hand-washed it the first time. So, I suggest either hand-washing the item the first time, or wash it separately in the machine, with wool-wash. Most people who know a lot about yarn suggest using a cleaner made especially for washing wool. I’m going to look into the best ways to wash hand-knits and write about it one day…!
Pinterest is one of the best online places to find free knitting patterns for everything from hats and scarves to shawls and blankets. For the beginner knitter, this is a wonderful thing. Many links will take you to the Ravelry site, a place where serious knitters show off their projects. Join for free to see everything.
Please be aware that some previously free patterns may no longer be free. I try to update, but may overlook something.
When we are not sure of our knitting skills and mainly need practice, starting a free, simple project is less stressful. I feel that I can make mistakes and learn from them. Free offerings are usually pretty basic. Pattern designers will often pull you in with something free from them. They hope you will enjoy their free design so much that you will come back and perhaps purchase one of their patterns. And that would be a nice thing to do.
The World’s Simplest MittensSpindrift ShawlPerfect Newborn socksFair Isle MittsClassic ribbed hat
A free pattern download also gives you an idea of how that designer presents the pattern. Is it written well with helpful advice along the way? Are there written directions as well as a graph to follow? Are photos, or images of the finished item included?
Once I felt more comfortable with my knitting, I began to gather some projects to purchase. Patterns are affordable, and I don’t mind paying for some designer’s hard work. I will end up with a beautiful and unique item.
Free Patterns For Shawls
At the present time I am working on three different shawls. Two are free patterns, and one is a MKAL (Mystery Knit-Along) pattern which I purchased. I learned to use stitch markers for sections – something the more experienced knitters taught me. Try doing that if your shawl has a repeating pattern.
The Spindrift shawl was a free pattern and is nearly finished. It is very easy to knit, with good directions. I can recommend this one.
Also, see two more free, beginner shawl suggestions on this post. And… I am working on a fun, free triangle shawl in gradient colors called the Scrappy Bias Shawl. Another shawl which knits from skinny to fat and back to skinny again, is the Baktus. At this link you will see many ways to knit this easy shaw. I love the stripes so many knitters chose.
Free Patterns For Socks
I have never knit socks, and I really can’t understand why so many people knit them. One day I may decide to knit a pair, and I’ll choose one of these free patterns to try. **Update: I have knit some socks, but don’t see the thrill. Maybe because in Florida I seldom wear socks at all. It also bores me to have to knit the same thing over immediately once I finish one sock!
Sock yarn is so pretty that it is used for much more than socks. But if socks are the project, look for quality yarn with nylon added for strength. Also look for washable wool, or “superwash” in the title.
If you can knit in the round, you may fall in love with knitting hats. I love to knit hats! They can be super simple and fast to knit – especially with thick wool yarn. Or, they can have cables and color work and take weeks to finish. Start with easy patterns or simple knits and purls (this can make a cool hat too.) The decreases at the top will require using DPN’s (double-pointed needles) and that can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s not so bad!
Once you have knitting and purling down, stretch that knowledge by learning yarn-overs, knit 2 together, more types of increases and decreases, and other stitches that may show up in more advanced patterns. Get to know your yarn types and what to choose for each project. Cotton for washcloths and such, merino wool is softer than plain wool, and combining yarn by knitting two colors or types together give you a whole other realm of creativity.
One great way to build up your knitting skills is to try various stitches, or a combination pattern to create a lace look. The Bromefields site has written patterns and videos for the Top 34 Lace Knit Stitches. You will probably have to rip projects out, but don’t be afraid to do so. It’s how we all learn.
Maybe you will find a stitch you love and convert that into a scarf or wrap. When I began doing the Fisherman’s rib, I fell in love. I’m now making my second scarf in this stitch, using the chunky Rasta yarn by Malabrigo.
I have scoured YouTube and pulled together some of the best basic knitting tutorials for various stitches you will probably need to know at some point.
See more of my collection of How To Knit videos at my Pinterest Knitting Boards.
I have knit one shawl in my life and I finished it just about a week ago. Shawls are for old ladies, right? I never considered knitting one, until I saw how beautiful shawl patterns are. Just do a search for hand-knit shawls and you will see what I mean! They are colorful and fun and perfect for women (and men!) of any age.
Now all I regret is that I don’t live in a climate where shawls could be worn. Still, it will not stop me from mastering shawl-knitting.
My First Shawl Project
My one and only shawl project was the No Fuss Shade-loving Shawl which can be downloaded at Ravelry and is offered for free by Susan Ashcroft. Her directions were easy to follow and there was no weird garter tab cast on – which I have yet to figure out how to do. See my finished shawl below. I had some trouble choosing a yarn, and ended up trying 3 different ones! It came out a little small also. I should have continued for a few more rows. But okay for a first try!
No Fuss Shade-Loving Shawl by Susan Ashcroft
The Spindrift Shawl is Free and Comes With Encouragement
When I saw the lovely Spindrift Shawl offered for free on Ravelry, I thought I was too late to get in on the action. Then I went to Curious Handmade site and there it was.. the offer to get this free pattern … on the right sidebar. Go to either link to find the free pattern. You will have to sign up to receive e-mails, but this designer has a beautiful selection of patterns and I won’t mind getting mail from her.
Helen, who runs the site, will send me the downloadable pattern and a welcome video.
As she says in her video, when she began shawl knitting she wished she’d had this type of help. It’s perfect timing for me, and I am grateful for the help even if Helen is a stranger who lives in England! Thank you Helen.
Beginning the Spindrift Shawl
What a nice idea. Also, Helen has tons of gorgeous shawl patterns (and more) to purchase. I can’t wait for the time when I feel confident enough to buy a shawl pattern and create something intricate and beautiful myself.
Baby steps. For now I will try my hand at the Spindrift Shawl. I have downloaded the pattern. And I received the second e-mail, which was about choosing the yarn.
Here are the particulars:
Yarn: Need 437 yards of fingering or sock yarn.
The crescent shaped shawl begins on a size 5 circular needle and switches to a size 6 and is worked from the top down.
The cast on is done using the backward loop method…and I chose a yarn I had purchased from Miss Babs. It’s a “Wild Iris” which means “one of a kind” color. I love the lavender, off-white and brown accents.
As you can see in my photo, I have begun knitting the shawl.
New England's Narrow Road 