Patterns | One-Week Wonders

You won't find any judgment here if you're one of the many knitters scrambling to start and finish a few last-minute gifts for the holidays. I certainly understand, since I'm in the same boat.

To stave off panic, I pulled out a few of my easiest patterns to focus on fast, fun and fiberific things I could whip up in a week or less. In the spirit of the season, I thought I'd share some of them on the off chance you too are in mad-dash mode.

The three projects below meet the criteria and many of you could finish one or more of these quick knits in a few hours. Most of you have the yarn you need in your stash, and even better, the patterns are free. (My gift to you.)

Last-Minute Mitts

Worked flat and seamed, these mitts are super fast and super easy. As a bonus, they're also reversible: One side features simple two-stitch cables and the other features 2x2 ribs. The cable stitch is worked without a cable needle and the stitches fit on DPNs for maximum portability.



I’m a slow knitter, but even I can finish one mitt in an evening. Start tonight and you’ll have a pair of handknit mitts in a day or two – the perfect last-minute, one-skein gift. (I've made multiple pairs and you can click here to see what others have done.)

The design suits a variety of yarns, but for the best results, choose something with a bit of memory. The pattern is written for worsted weight, works well in aran, DK, sport and even sock yarn carried double, and includes directions for three sizes (SML).

April Showers Spa Cloth

Don't let the name confuse you, these are a great winter holiday gift. Like the mitts, they're reversible with small cables on one side and 2x2 ribs on the other. They too are highly portable, since the cable stitch is worked without a cable needle and you can use short needles.

If you're really short on time make one cloth, pair it with a pretty soap and you're done. Or knit a quick set of two or three in matching or complementary colors. (To see what others have made, click here.)

The pattern is written for worsted weight, adapts to a variety of yarns including cotton, bamboo, linen and cotton-wool blends (my personal favorite), and includes directions for three sizes (SML).

Double Luck Coaster / Mug Mat

These reversible seed stitch coasters feature a strong vertical line on the front created with centered increases. They're small, fast and easy, so they're a great on-the-go project during this busy holiday season.

The directions include edge stitches that create a finished look, so simply weave in two ends and you're done. Most knitters will be able to complete at least one or two in an evening, so they're a great option if you need a small token gift or want to quickly create an entire set. Use red, white and/or green to create a classic holiday look or opt for a rainbow of colors.

The pattern is written for worsted weight, but you could use leftover sock yarn carried double or try bulky weight for something more substantial.

There's no denying reality, Christmas is only seven days away. But don't panic, there's still time. Simply dig through your stash tonight and cast on for any (or all) of these one-week wonders.