Magpie Monday - Knitting

My Knitting Pattern Radar did not fail me last week as I browsed the Charity Shops. I was so pleased to spot this Jean Greenhowe book of Knitted Toys.

I know my mum has a small mountain of wool oddments left over from the equally mountainous collection of jumpers and cardies she has made for her grandchildren. I thought this would be an ideal way of using up some of those oddments and putting a big smile on the faces of the grandchildren who would benefit from something a bit different from the usual offering from their lovely nana.

The book was unpriced. I would happily have paid £2 for it so it seemed like a fantastic bargain when the cashier asked for only £1.

I have to confess that the scarecrow featured on the front cover did not appeal to me greatly. However, flicking through my latest acquisition over a cup of coffee back home uncovered a treasure trove of inspirational ideas within the covers.

This collection of "Witty Knits" has some fabulous little Hallowe'en characters that would make perfect decorations for that time of year when the veil between worlds is thin...

... and my Christmas tree will be jollier with the addition of some of these festive cuties.

I am not an accomplished knitter like my mum but I'm not afraid to have a go and I know the basics of casting on and off, simple plain and pearl stitch and increasing and decreasing. Looking at the patterns, I felt confident that some of them would be well within my ability.

I gave my mum the book and she was predictably delighted. I also mentioned that  I would love to have a go at some of the simpler designs myself under her watchful guidance.  The next time she visits, she has promised to bring wool, needles and the patience to help me if I get in a pickle (which I undoubtedly will). I can't wait to get started.

I have told my mum that she absolutely has to make this toy as a tribute to the days my dad served as a Coldstream Guard.

Spot the difference!