Knit & Crochet: Start your winter sweater projects now!

In 3 months a better part of the country will see temperatures drop and a fall chill creep into the air. It seems 100 years away since it just got hot but before you know it you will be reaching for your wooly sweaters, silk shawls and alpaca scarves. If you don't get busy now you will be left out in the cold. And why not start now. The kids are home from school and in need to activities to keep them entertained. Teach them to knit or crochet and they can create their own scarves. Once they learn to knit or crochet, they will love the activity and creativity. You can take your yarny projects to the park, soccer practice or sit at a local coffee shop while the kids play at camp. It is a great excuse to hide away in the air conditioning for a while.

I have scoured the internet for some great knitting and crochet patterns that you will want to get started on right away. You have 3 short months to put a dent in your knitting & crochet projects before the cold weather creeps in.  

Owl Sweater: http://knitting.craftgossip.com/free-owls-sweater-pattern/2009/03/06/

I am a big fan of this Owl Sweater and recommend it with a wool or wool blend yarn in a solid color so the owls are most visible. Don't forget to get plenty of buttons!

Katje Sweater: http://www.fabric.com/knitting-crochet-knitting-books-patterns-knit-cardigan-vest-patterns-coco-knits-katje-pattern.aspx

This is an amazingly constructed sweater- Seamless from the top down, making it easy to try on while knitting. This would look great in tweed!

Child hooded Scarf: http://www.fabric.com/knitting-crochet-knitting-books-patterns-knit-scarf-patterns-marie-grace-designs-child-s-hooded-scarf-pattern.aspx

Such a great idea to make a 2-in-1. I recommend a bright Alpaca

Molly: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/molly-13

This sassy number needs a tonal stripe to make is just right for fall. I can see it in Teal and Lite Green Superwash Merino (pic © Mia Edvardson)

Legwarmies: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/legwarmies

Great for everyone- it can be a stash buster or to bump your cart up to $35/free shipping

Baby Poncho: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/baby-poncho-l0078ad

Crocheted delight for kids. My little one loves her poncho and so do I. It makes buckling into her car seat much easier than a coat.

Honey Cowl: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/honey-cowl

I MUST make this in a trendy, spicy color. I am thinking Candied Yarn Mix! (Pic © madelinetosh)

Elise Shawl: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/elise-shawl

This is simply amazing and I love it in a tightly wound red as featured.