10 Tiny Knits - Ta Da!

In between obsessively checking the latest news about the global pandemic, making lists of all of the groceries that we are constantly running out of, and walking my little poochie while dodging the neighbors, I have managed to finish my first book of patterns! I won’t lie, it feels extremely awkward to be putting out this joyous little collection today. Yesterday the number of coronavirus cases in the US surpassed China. My own corner of the world is 12 miles from New York City, which has come to a screeching halt while we all shelter in place. This is SO STRESSFUL!!! But do you know what’s good for stress? Knitting! And do you know what brings joy? Babies! And you know what else? Knitters gotta knit!! Maybe now more than ever. With that - I present to you …

10 Tiny Knits is a collection for the littlest people in your life.   These are everyday knits that come toodling down the stairs for breakfast; they like to romp around the neighborhood playground, followed by a nice long nap, wake up, go to a birthday party and eat cake before dinner.   There are blankets that tell stories, sweaters inspired by family trips - boldly colored, sculptural, squishy knits to keep warm and cozy while blowing bubbles and jumping on the couch.  They are easy-on, easy-off, more than a little bit special, and so much fun to make!   Truthfully, these are the things that I would have liked to knit for my own children. 

Ironically, I didn’t knit when my kids were little.  In fact, I clearly remember sitting in a waiting room at the YMCA,  watching a woman knit a beautiful, brightly colored poncho while my then 4 year-old daughter was taking a swimming lesson.    And I thought to myself, “Wow, she’s really using her time well”.  Not “I used to knit”... or “I could do that”... or “Why am I reading this tattered People magazine?” Nope.  Nothing.  But I prefer to blame my husband.  He didn’t give me the damn copy of Stitch ‘n Bitch for Valentine’s Day until several years later. 

Once I got started, I didn’t let go - of my needles that is.  I got as far as I could reading that book, and then I grabbed a knitter friend who graciously and patiently corrected my mistakes. I took classes at my local yarn stores. I bought a thousand pounds of knitting books and magazines and I knit one thing after another.  Eventually I churned out some lovelies - sweaters, hats, mittens, and socks that I actually wear all the time.  But I found my greatest joy was in knitting for my family.  There is no better way to show someone you love them, than to make them something with your own two hands.

I am a designer who loves to knit and I made sure that there is something for every knitter in 10 Tiny Knits.  My favorite projects keep my mind occupied with easily memorized patterns that become intuitive after several rows.  You will find many pieces like that here.  One of the joys of knitting for babies and little children is that the projects are small.  You can try new techniques and gain new skills with the finish line clearly in view.   Projects range from simple knit-purl textures to the challenge of cables and brioche.   The stitch patterns will keep you interested and engaged as you work through your projects.  Some sweaters are knit in pieces, then seamed, while several are knit from the top down, a favorite construction technique. 

10 Tiny Knits is available as an ebook on Ravelry and here on my website. The patterns are also available to purchase individually. I will be posting tutorials for the special little techniques people may not be familiar with in the coming weeks. If you do decide to knit any of these patterns I would love to see your work! Please connect with me on Instagram and Ravelry if you have not already.

Needless to say, your local yarn stores need all the support they can get in this time. If you happen to live near Montclair NJ, my own LYS, Yarnia, is currently closed to the public, but open for business! They will fill your order and deliver it curbside. They have many beautiful yarns to choose from and will be happy to make suggestions when you are ready to jump into a project.

I hope that whatever you may be knitting brings you welcome distraction. But mostly I hope that you and your loved ones all remain safe and well. Cast on, curl up and knit on people!