It’s almost the start of another year and surely some of you are making resolutions – but are any of those crafting-related? While you may be frantically finishing up your last few gifts, January is a great time to sit back and take stock of what you’ve finished over the last year and make plans for the coming one. Stumped for ideas? Here are some to get your list started!

Crafting Resolutions for 2019

Will 2019 be the year you make your first garment?

A raglan sweater is always a popular first option, whether you make it in pieces or all in one go from the top down. Try the Adult Raglan Sleeve Pullover (Knit) or the My First Raglan Cardigan (Knit) pattern if you’re a knitter. Crocheters, look into the Top Down Crochet Jacket pattern or the Simply Constructed Pullover (Crochet) for a fun side-to-side construction!

Level Up Your Crochet

Itching to add some texture and interest to your crochet? Why not try granny squares in a chunky scarf, like the Granny Square Scarf (Crochet) pattern. Or go beyond the traditional pattern with the Mixed Granny Square Scarf (Crochet) pattern! Of course, once you’ve made all the squares you can assemble them into anything you like.

How about learning a new technique altogether and giving Tunisian crochet a whirl? The Taos Tunisian Crochet Shawl works up quickly and is a great spring layer, while the Tunisian Throw (Crochet) would be a great long term project with all it’s textured blocks.

New Knitting Techniques

Cables are a knitting classic, but if you’re looking to do something new with them, we’ve got several sweater patterns to stretch your skills: the Cable Luxe Maxi (Knit) is a true statement piece (or knit the tunic version for less of a commitment!). The Sideways Cable Pullover (Knit) is another stunner of a sweater, while the Modern Cable Pullover (Knit) is a skinny-jeans-and-boots appropriate take on a fisherman’s sweater.

Finally Try Your Hand at Socks

Socks may seem like an odd project to the non-crafter, but we know that there’s nothing like a cozy handmade pair on a cold winter day. Plus, all the joy of buying sock yarn! From the Basic Socks (Knit) for knitters, or the Simple Crochet Socks for the hook-inclined, to those with fancier stitches like the Classic Cable Socks (Knit) or the Fathers Day Socks (Knit) (with a totally unisex stitch pattern!), socks are a perfect on-the-go project and provide a small canvas for an endless variety of color and texture.

What’s Your Crafting Resolution?

Whatever your crafting resolutions may be, we hope you have plenty of time for your projects. And remember that we’re always here to help, whether you need more yarn or someone to explain what “sl1k2togpsso” means! Stop by our Manhattan Studio to pick up supplies, ask all your crafting questions, or take a class or workshop to take your technique to the next level. We’re here to help make all your 2019 crafting resolutions come true.