When the days turn shorter, and the temperatures get nippy, that means it is time to get to work on knitting and crochet projects.

Some folks do like to knit and crochet year round, but most of us only thing about stitching when the weather turns colder and the early nights mean more nighttime TV watching. If the idea of knitting and crocheting appeals to you, but you haven’t yet finished projects from last year, then you may want to consider smaller projects. Don’t bite off more than you chew, but instead choose quick knit and crochet projects that you can finish in a weekend (or even during your week time nightly stitching sessions).

But how to choose quick projects? Whether choosing a free project from the Internet or purchasing a pattern from Etsy, Craft site here, or craft store, there are a few ways to identify a quick stitching product.

4 Tips for Choosing Quick Knitting and Crochet Projects

• Look at the number called for in the project. If it calls for more than 1-2 skeins of yarn, it’s probably going to take more than a couple of days to complete. Of course, it does depend on how quickly you stitch, but for us occasional stitchers more than 1-2 skeins may mean a little more dedication is needed to finish the project.
• Chunky knit and crochet projects are usually quicker to complete. The chunky yarns mean fewer stitches, which means a quicker finish. Chunky knits and crochet are also super cute and on trend.
• Size matters. Keep your goals realistic when choosing a quick stitching project. It’s really a no-brainer–a scarf is a realistic goal to complete in a weekend, while a queen-sized afghan is not. Choose carefully and realistically–otherwise, you might just end up with yet another unfinished project this time next year.
• Choose patterns you understand. If there’s a new technique or stitch in the pattern, maybe save it for another time. If you want a guaranteed quick project, use skills you already have. While learning new skills is usually a good thing, it’s not ideal when you are looking for quick knit and crochet projects.

Quick Knit and Crochet Projects

1. Crochet Market Tote – We’d crochet up a few of these to keep on hand for the farmers market.
2. Crochet Coaster – Crochet up a dozen of these beginner crochet coasters in different colors to use up leftover yarn.
3. Knitted Fingerless Mittens – Knit up these babies to wear while you kit other projects.
4. Chunky Knit Earwarmers – This beginner pattern is just what you need to keep your ears warm.
5. Knitted Hot Water Bottle Cozy – Knit this water bottle cozy up for extra warmth this winter.
6. Super Chunky Knitted Hat – If ear warmers aren’t enough for you, knit up a textured chunky knit hat.
7. Coffee/Tea Cup Cozy – Keep your warm drink warm with this tutorial for a knit or crochet cup cozy.
8. One Skein Knit Cowl – This easy projects boosts that it should only take one night to complete!
9. Knitted Basket – Knit up a handy yarn basket  in which to store your latest stitch project.

Related on EcoSalon

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Image: Knitting With Bright Manicure via Shutterstock

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Here’s a DIY scarf anyone can make. Seriously, anyone.

Whether an avid knitter or not, many crafters are stuck with stashes of beautiful yarn and too many knitting projects from which to choose. No-knit yarn projects are the ideal solution for knitters and non-knitters alike. No-knit yarn projects are the perfect way to use up your yarn stashes without ever picking up a needle. They are also often not too complicated and an awesome way to keep your hands busy while catching up with your favorite shows!

What if you need inspiration though? Enter “KNITLESS: 50 No-Knit, Stash-Busting Yarn Projects,” a new book by Laura McFadden that features great projects for any crafter, beginner or advanced. From rehabbing old chairs to adding a DIY touch to a plain lamp shade, it’s a book for people who love yarn, but who don’t always have the time (or the advanced skills) to knit!

Among the super easy yarn projects is for a no-knit DIY scarf. There are two variations: one that involves sewing, and a no-knit AND no-sew version that is a super quick project. Both would be perfect ways to use up some yarn and add some wonderful texture and color to your fall wardrobe. Or if you are feeling generous, make up a bunch to gift this holiday season!

No-Knit One-Hour DIY Scarf

Materials

• Scissors
• 123 yards super bulky weight yarn (teal)
• Sewing machine
• Sewing thread (gray

Directions

1. Cut the bulky weight yarn into 63-inch pieces. Use up all of the yarn.

2. Align the pieces side by side on your work surface. Feed the whole bundle underneath the presser foot of your sewing machine, placing the needle about 7 inches in from the cut ends on one side.

3. Sew perpendicularly across the yarn, holding on to the yarn bundle tightly as you run it through the sewing machine.

4. Sew back and forth from edge to edge about six times, not worrying about the stitches being even. The uneven nature of the sewing will make it feel even more handmade.

5. Repeat Step 4 every 6 inches, sewing across the yarn bundle to secure the strands of yarn. Do this nine times total.

6. Trim the edges of the yarn evenly.

VARIATION: An even simpler “no-sew” version can be made by using 3 different colors of yarn. Measure and cut out six 100-foot strands of each color. Take the three different colors of yarn and twist them into a spiral. Gather the ends with a piece of yarn, leaving an excess tail of 14 inches. Tie the pieces together tightly. Trim the tail ends at various lengths to get a cascading effect.

Other cool yarn projects from “KNITLESS” range from home décor and accessories to gift ideas and yarn art. Projects include the Braided Yarn Rug, Yarn-Wrapped Air Plant Displays, and Ombre Tassel Necklace. We love them all!

Tutorial is reprinted with permission from “KNITLESS” © 2015 by Laura McFadden, Running Press, a member of the Perseus Books Group.

Related on EcoSalon

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All Images: KNITLESS © 2015 by Laura McFadden, Running Press, a member of the Perseus Books Group

The post Gorgeous No-Knit One-Hour DIY Scarf Anyone Can Make appeared first on EcoSalon.

I don’t know how to knit, but if I did, these would both be born (by way of knitting needles) in my living room. Until the unlikely event that I take up knitting and knotting, I will capitalize on the good fortune that I can purchase these gorgeous confections of yarn. On the left, the Six Cord Knitted Necklace by A Alicia is a “messy plait” of yarn braided into the perfect winter statement necklace. On the right, the Knitted Pouf by CB2 is hand knit and versatile – think ottoman, coffee table, casual seating, winter snuggle, etc.

Craving more cable knit? If you simply cannot get enough cable knit delights, cozy up with this throw from VivaTerra.  And if you already have too much cable knit in your closet, use this simple tutorial to upcycle a sweater and whip up a scarf.

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