Knitted Dishcloth Patterns

Whether you’re just picking up your needles or looking to tackle a creative challenge, these hand-knit washcloth patterns are here to inspire your next project. Get the patterns from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Dishcloths and Washcloths Designed by Liz Chandler

From simple basics to intricate color designs, my hand-knit washcloth and dishcloth patterns have something for every knitter! These practical, eco-friendly creations are the unsung heroes of a cozy, functional home; they’re perfect for showcasing your knitting skills while adding a handmade touch to your space. Whether you’re just picking up your needles or ready to tackle a creative challenge, my washcloth and dishcloth collection at PurlsAndPixels has you covered. Explore these beginner-friendly and advanced designs to create something both cute and useful! 🧶✨

How to Knit a Washcloth

Beginner Face Scrubby

Designed for those new to knitting, this simple face scrubby pattern helps you practice basic stitches while creating a useful item.

🧶 Get the Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern

Free Beginner Face Scrubby knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Heart Face Scrubby

Add a touch of love to your skincare routine with this heart-shaped face scrubby. It’s a charming addition to any bathroom and makes for a thoughtful handmade gift.

🧶 Get the Heart Face Scrubby Pattern

Heart face scrubby free knitting pattern from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Seed Stitch Washcloth

This beginner-friendly pattern introduces the seed stitch, resulting in a textured, absorbent, and exfoliating washcloth. Crafted with 100% cotton yarn, it’s perfect for personal use or as a thoughtful gift.

🧶 Get the Seed Stitch Washcloth Pattern

Washcloth Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection

Ideal for those starting their knitting journey, this digital collection of hand knit washcloths includes instructions for:

  • Garter Stitch Washcloth
  • Garter Stitch Face Scrubby
  • Stockinette Stitch Washcloth
  • Stockinette Stitch Face Scrubby
  • Seed Stitch Washcloth
  • Seed Stitch Face Scrubby

These patterns are versatile, making them suitable for various household uses.

🧶 Get the Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection

Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Ribbed Washcloth

This pattern features a simple ribbed design, making it a quick and satisfying project for knitters of all levels. The ribbing adds extra absorbency and durability.

🧶 Get the Ribbed Washcloth Pattern Set

Learn to knit ribbed face scrubbies, waschloths, and hand towels with this knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Two-Tone Ribbed Washcloth

This pattern introduces a two-tone ribbed design, adding a pop of color and texture to your dishcloth collection. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

🧶 Get the Two-Tone Ribbed Washcloth Pattern Set

Two Tone Ribbed Washcloth Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Double-Stripe Ribbed Washcloth

Featuring a stylish double-stripe ribbed design, this pattern offers instructions for three sizes: face scrubby, washcloth, and hand towel. It’s a wonderful project to add a touch of elegance to your kitchen or bathroom.

🧶 Get the Double-Stripe Ribbed Washcloth Pattern Set

Double-Stripe Ribbed Washcloth Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Single-Striped Washcloths

Offering a classic striped design, this collection provides patterns for various sizes, allowing you to create a cohesive set of washcloths and face scrubbies.

🧶 Get the Single-Striped Washcloth Pattern Set

Single Striped Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Double Thick Washcloths

Double up the yarn and knit a thicker, more durable washcloth in half the time! By holding two strands of yarn together as you work, you’ll create a plush, absorbent fabric that’s perfect for scrubbing dishes or pampering your skin.

🧶 Get the Double-Thick Washcloth Pattern

Handknit cotton washcloths made by doubling up the yarn and knitting two strands together. Find the free knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Tips for Knitting Dishcloths and Washcloths:

  • Yarn Selection: Opt for 100% cotton yarn for its absorbency and durability.
  • Gauge Check: Ensure your gauge matches the pattern to achieve the desired size and texture.
  • Finishing Touches: Block your finished pieces to enhance their shape and appearance.

Knitting dishcloths and washcloths is an excellent way to practice your stitchwork, cozy up your home, and make presents. Try these patterns from PurlsAndPixels to craft beautiful, handmade additions for your kitchen and bath or to gift to loved ones.

Shop Dishcloth & Washcloth Knitting Supplies

To make my knitted dishcloth patterns, I use Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Yarn and Clover Bamboo Knitting Needles. Here are my affiliate links to these knitting essentials on Amazon:

Lily Sugar ‘n Cream 100% Cotton Yarn

Clover Takumi Circular 16″ Size 7 Bamboo Knitting Needle

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10 Thoughtful DIY Gift Ideas from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

10 Handmade gift ideas for your next holiday or celebration from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

If you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts this season, you’re in the right place! At PurlsAndPixels, I love sharing simple, heartfelt craft ideas that make perfect presents for loved ones. From knitting and crochet patterns to creative DIY projects, here are ten thoughtful gift ideas you can make yourself.


1. Tiny Knit Mitten Ornaments

These adorable miniature mittens are quick to knit and make great gifts for friends and family. Use them as tree ornaments, garlands, or package toppers. They’re perfect for using up scrap yarn!
➡️ Find the pattern here

Mitten Holiday Ornament Free Knitting Pattern from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

2. Learn-to-Knit Gift Set

Give the gift of a new hobby! Create a beginner-friendly knitting kit with yarn, needles, and a link to our Knitting Guide. Personalize it by including a handmade scarf or dishcloth to inspire their first project.
➡️ Learn how to make the set here

Learn to knit gift set, DIY gift idea from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

3. Peppermint Twist Crochet Garland

A festive garland adds a handmade touch to any home. This candy-cane-inspired crochet project is beginner-friendly and works up quickly. Package it as a gift or use it to decorate your home.
➡️ Get the crochet tutorial here

Learn how to make an easy DIY peppermint twist crochet garland with this beginner-friendly tutorial by Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels. Add handmade charm to your Christmas decor in under an hour!

4. Cherry Candy Cane Potholder

This oversized potholder is as festive as it is functional. Pair it with a set of kitchen towels or baking supplies for a thoughtful hostess gift.
➡️ Grab the knitting pattern here

Free easy beginner knitting pattern, cherry candy cane potholder for Christmas or holiday parties, pattern from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

5. DIY Washcloths or Dishcloths

Knit or crochet a set of reusable washcloths or dishcloths. Pair them with handmade soap or spa items for a luxurious self-care gift.
➡️ Check out my dishcloth patterns here

Single Striped Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

6. Santa Hat and Gloves

Make matching Santa hats and gloves for the whole family. These cozy accessories are perfect for holiday photos and make a sweet, personal gift.
➡️ Find the pattern here

Santa Hat & Fingerless Gloves Knitting Pattern Set by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Want to send homemade cookies as gifts? Use my shipping tips to ensure your baked goods arrive fresh and intact. Package them with a handwritten note for a personal touch.
➡️ Read the shipping tips here

Homemade gifts like fresh baked cookies are always delightful. And shipping a surprise batch to a distant friend is even better! Find cookie shipping tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

8. Customizable Gift Tags from Santa

Add a magical touch to your presents with these printable, editable gift tags from Santa’s workshop. Personalize them with your recipient’s name for an extra-special detail.
➡️ Download the gift tags here


9. DIY Knitting Patterns Bundle

Create a customized pattern bundle by printing or packaging several beginner-friendly patterns from PurlsAndPixels. Pair them with yarn and needles to inspire creativity.
➡️ Explore knitting patterns here

Fall hat and gloves knitting patterns by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

10. Hand Knit Accessories for Chilly Days

Nothing says thoughtful like a hand knitted gift. Knit them a hat, scarf, gloves, or even a set of all three. You’ll be their handmade hero.
➡️ Find accessories you can hand knit here

Cozy up with fall knitting. Time to start making those gifts and presents while you enjoy the autumn leaves. Find more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why these DIY Gift Ideas Are Perfect for the Holidays

Handmade gifts show that you’ve put time, effort, and love into creating something unique. Share your craftiness with all of your loved ones this year.

I have more holiday ideas!

🎄Holiday Pattern Roundup

👐 Simple DIY Handmade Crafts

🏡Cozy Home


Share Your Handmade Gifts & Creations!

I’d love to see your DIY gifts! Share your projects with me on Instagram using #PurlsAndPixels, and let’s inspire each other to make this holiday season extra special.

Happy crafting! 🎁

P.S. – Handmade gifts are my favorite, but it’s also OK to shop for presents too! Browse my favorite cozy Amazon gifts in my influencer collection.

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Why Knitting is the Ultimate Homestead Hobby

Knitting and homesteading go hand-in-hand. Learn a new skill for your farm from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Let’s talk about the ultimate homesteading accessory. Nope, it’s not a chicken coop or a shiny new canner (although those are fabulous). It’s a pair of knitting needles! Yes, knitting is the unsung hero of homestead hobbies, and if you’re not already in on this cozy little secret, it’s time to grab some yarn and get started.

Why Knitting and Homesteading Go Hand-in-Hand

Picture this: a crackling fire, a cup of tea in your favorite mug, and you sitting in your comfiest chair knitting a cozy scarf while the bread rises in the oven. Can you feel the warmth and satisfaction already? Knitting fits seamlessly into the homesteading lifestyle because it’s about creating something with your own two hands—just like gardening, baking, or DIY projects.

Knitting and homesteading go hand in hand. Make your own potholders for taking your homemade baked goods out of the oven, for example. See Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels for ideas.

Plus, knitted items are practical. Socks, sweaters, hats—they’re not just cozy; they’re necessities when you’re braving frosty mornings to feed the chickens or chop wood.

The Patterns You Need Right Now

If you’re ready to dive in, I’ve got you covered with beginner-friendly knitting patterns that are as practical as they are pretty. Start with my Easy Peasy Washcloth Pattern, perfect for scrubbing those farmhouse sinks, or try the Warm and Toasty Hat Pattern, which will keep you snug through snowy winters. And for the advanced knitters out there, my Rustic Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern is a must for curling up on the couch after a long day.

You can find these free patterns and more in my Knitting Patterns Page (go ahead, click—I promise it’s worth it).

Or shop my premium knitting patterns, books, and journals in the PurlsAndPixels online store.

How Knitting Brings the Whole Homestead Together

Knitting isn’t just about the finished product; it’s about the process. It’s a slow, meditative craft that pairs perfectly with the pace of homesteading life. Need a moment to unwind after wrangling the goats? Pick up your needles. Want to make something special for a loved one? Knit them a hat.

Knitting also has a way of bringing people together. Host a knitting circle in your cozy kitchen, or teach your kids to make their own winter hats. You’ll be passing on a skill that’s equal parts practical and heartwarming.

More Cozy Homestead Inspiration

If you love the idea of adding some rustic charm to your home, be sure to check out my Homesteading Lifestyle Articles for tips on everything from gardening to DIY home décor. Whether you’re a full-fledged homesteader or just dabbling, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make your home a cozy haven.

Learn to knit for your homestead with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Let’s Get Knitting!

So, what are you waiting for? Dust off those needles, grab a skein of yarn, and let’s create something beautiful. Don’t forget to explore my knitting patterns and homesteading articles. I’ve got everything you need to turn your dreams of cozy, handmade living into a reality.

P.S. Already working on a pattern? Share your progress with me on Instagram and tag me @PurlsAndPixels. I’d love to see your creations!

Need supplies for your new knitting project?

Find the yarn and knitting needles you will need for all of these projects on my Amazon Influencer Affiliate Collection page.

Shop Amazon to have all your knitting supplies delivered directly to your home.

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Liz’s Holiday Gift Guide

Find cozy and rustic holiday gift ideas in Liz Chandler's guide.

Cozy, Crafty & Homestead-Ready Gifts to Make Them Smile 🎁

‘Tis the season to get cozy, knit some magic, and make your homesteading friends squeal with joy. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift that says, “I care about you and your crafty, self-sufficient lifestyle,” you’ve landed in the right place. Let’s dive into these warm and rustic gift ideas in my holiday gift guide.

Learn to Knit Gift Set

Who do you know that would love knitting, but just hasn’t had the chance to learn? Think of that person’s favorite colors, then get ready to make them a custom, DIY gift set. Gather yarn, knitting needles, and a cute tote or box. Toss in a card with a link to my online knitting guide. Or upgrade your kit by including a copy of Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide. This knitting book will teach them everything they need to know and include oodles of classic patterns they’ll never want to stop knitting. I’ve put together a list of suggested materials on my Learn to Knit Gift Set page; read it here.

Learn to knit gift set, DIY gift idea from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Cozy Home Decor

A thoughtful gift can feel just like a warm hug, bringing comfort and coziness to their home. Think about soft, fluffy throw blankets for curling up on the couch, gentle lighting like a pretty lamp or string lights to create a calming glow, or something special to help them enjoy their favorite warm drink; maybe a cute mug, a coffee sampler, or a new tea kettle. These little touches can add warmth and make their space feel even more inviting. Browse my list of extra-cozy home goods on Amazon to find the perfect gift.

Cozy home decor gifts, perfect for the holidays

Homestead Helper

Got a friend who dreams of raising chickens and growing all their own veggies? Help them create the homestead of their dreams with some practical goodies: a really nice drill, a sturdy toolbox, or some cool gardening gloves. Or help them automate their lifestyle with chicken coop doors that open on their own or machines that feed the animals. Find my holiday gift guide of homesteading goodies on Amazon.

Gifts for modern homesteaders.

DIY Craft Kits

Sure, you could buy them a candle or a bar of soap—but why not give them a whole kit so they can make their own? A candle-making kit, soap-making set, or cheese-making supplies will keep them busy and their home smelling like a rustic dream. (Bonus: You might even get some homemade goodies as a thank-you!) Browse some unique DIY Craft Kits on Amazon.

Give them the gift of a new hobby with do-it-yourself craft kit.

Cooking Supplies for the Homestead Chef

Give your favorite home cook a reason to whip up something delicious. Try gifts that make their kitchen feel like a cozy, rustic paradise. They’d be thrilled to get a new cast iron skillet, a fancy Dutch oven, or even some cute spatulas and spoons. Find my favorite kitchen essentials, perfect for gifting this holiday on my Amazon list.

Holiday gift ideas for the homestead chef

Holiday Gift Guide

So, there you have it: a holiday gift guide that’s as cozy as a hand-knitted blanket and as fun as a night around the bonfire. Go forth, spread some holiday cheer, and don’t forget to snag a little something for yourself (you’ve earned it!).

PurlsAndPixels Amazon Store front currated by Liz Chandler

Happy Holidays!

Looking for more inspiration? Make something festive:

🎄 Holiday Pattern Roundup

💞 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas: Handcrafted with Love

Read More

Holiday Pattern Roundup

Liz Chandler's Holiday Craft DIY Roundup with knitting patterns, crochet patterns, and easy DIY gifts and decorations at PurlsAndPixels.

Holiday DIY Craft Roundup: Knitting, Crochet, and Craft Patterns from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

With the holidays fast approaching, I’ve gathered all my festive knitting, crochet, and craft patterns into one place to help you add some handmade charm to your season. Whether you’re decorating your home or creating heartfelt gifts, these projects are perfect for crafters of all levels!

Tiny Knit Mitten Ornaments

These adorable mini mittens are perfect for trimming your tree or crafting a festive garland. They’re also a wonderful holiday DIY craft for using up leftover yarn. Quick to knit and irresistibly cute!
➡️ Get the pattern here

Learn to knit holiday ornament mini mittens with this free knitting pattern sample from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Peppermint Twist Garland

Create a fun candy-cane-inspired garland to decorate your tree, staircase, or mantle. This simple chain project is a great activity for kids and adds a handmade touch to your decor.
➡️ Find the pattern here

Learn to crochet a peppermint garland with this easy tutorial from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Cherry Candy Cane Potholder

This oversized potholder doubles as a festive decor accent. Its chunky yarn construction makes it both quick to knit and sturdy enough for holiday entertaining. Pair it with a candy cane centerpiece for extra holiday cheer!
➡️ Get the pattern here

Easy cherry candy cane pot holder knitting pattern a quick holiday knitting project from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Learn to Knit Gift Set

Delight the aspiring crafter in your life with a DIY knitting gift basket! Include essentials like yarn, needles, scissors, and a link to my online beginner’s guide. It’s a thoughtful gift that lasts a lifetime.
➡️ Find out how to make it here

Give the gift of handmade by creating this do-it-yourself (DIY) Learn to Knit Gift Set. Get the list of everything you'd need to start your knitting lessons without buying any supplies.

Santa’s Gift Tags

Add a magical touch to presents from Santa with these printable, customizable gift tags. With this quick holiday DIY craft, you can edit the design to personalize for your little ones. Use them year after year for a charming family tradition.
➡️ Download the tags here

Printable "From Santa" Gift Tags for Christmas, a Free DIY project from Liz Chandler

Cookies as Gifts – Shipping Tips

Send holiday cheer to faraway loved ones with homemade cookies! Learn my tried-and-true tips for packaging and shipping cookies so they arrive fresh and intact.
➡️ Check out my tips here

Homemade cookies baked fresh from the oven are my favorite holiday gift to give. When loved ones are far away, you can ship cookies to their homes. Find Liz Chandler's tips @PurlsAndPixels

Santa Hat and Gloves

Keep your family cozy and festive with matching Santa hats and gloves! This beginner-friendly knitting pattern ensures everyone looks adorable on Christmas morning.
➡️ Get the pattern here

Santa Hats and Gloves in all sizes knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Mini Santa Hat Ornament

Tiny Santa Hats make anything more festive! Knit them for tree ornaments, garlands, wreaths, and gift boxes.
➡️ Get the pattern here

Learn to knit Tiny Santa Hat mini ornaments with this free knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

More Holiday Craft Ideas

Looking for more inspiration? Browse my holiday articles filled with cozy crafts and clever gift ideas:
🎄 Liz’s Holiday Gift Guide

🎁 DIY Gift Ideas

💞 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas: Handcrafted with Love

🏡 Cozy Home Inspiration

🛍️ Shop Cozy Gifts on Amazon


Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy Crafting!

I hope this Holiday Pattern Roundup got you in the mood to create something amazing! I can’t wait to see what you create! Share your finished projects with me using @PurlsAndPixels. 😊

How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

How to wind yarn into center-pull balls by hand - a lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.
How to wind yarn into center-pull balls by hand - a lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Whether you have unraveled a project or just have some leftover yarn, by now you probably have some scraps that are in need of organization. Winding yarn into neat balls keeps your strings from becoming a hopeless tangled mess. While there are many ways to coil yarn for storage, center-pull yarn balls are the most versatile; they allow you to work directly from either end of the string.

(In the article below, I have linked to items on Amazon.com, so you can see examples of the equipment I reference. Please know all links to Amazon are affiliate links, and if you make a purchase through them, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you. Now, on to the important information.)

Center-Pull Yarn

Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Each ball of yarn is made of one long strand with two ends. There are a number of ways to coil the yarn so that it does not tangle. Some yarn is pre-wound into center pull balls or skeins (tube-shaped balls) by the manufacturer. When you see a string coming from the center of the ball or skein, you can probably work directly from either end.

Working from the center of a ball is often more convenient. When you work with the end on the outside of the ball, the yarn will likely roll and flop around. Yarn bowls and containers can help keep your yarn from escaping. But center-pull balls can be even more effective at reducing the movement of your ball of yarn. Pulling from outside of the ball forces it to roll. But when you pull from the center, the yarn uncoils without turning the ball.

Many yarn-makers, however, wind their yarn into “hanks” instead of center-pull balls or skeins. To make a hank, the manufacturer makes one large circle of yarn then twists it together for storage and shipping. Hanks are incredibly difficult to work from directly, so to use yarn that comes in a hank, you will need to wind it into a ball.

Winding frogged yarn, scrap yarn, and hanks of yarn into center-pull balls keeps yarn neat, organized, and ready to use.

Machines like “yarn swifts” and “yarn winders” are available to assist you in turning yarn into a usable form. A yarn swift holds the yarn from a hank in place while you wind your ball. Then, you can use a yarn winder to turn that yarn into a “cake” which is much like a center pull ball. Or, instead of investing in fancy machines, you can use just your hands and wind hanks, leftovers, and frogged yarn into center-pull balls.

Video Guide: How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

Written Guide: How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

Below I’ll show you how to wind a center pull yarn ball step-by-step. I am winding the ball from a larger center-pull skein so that I can knit two items at once from the same yarn. I also wind partially used skeins into new balls for tidier storage.

Step 1: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 1:

Drape the yarn end between your left pointer finger and thumb, laying it across your palm.

Step 2: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 2:

Clasp the end of the yarn with your left ring and pinkie fingers, then, with your right hand, pick up the other end of the yarn just above your left pointer finger. With the strand in your right hand, begin to wrap the yarn over the top of your left pointer finger.

Step 3: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 3:

Bring the yarn down between your pointer and middle fingers, then between your thumb and pointer finger, forming a loop around your left pointer finger.  

Step 4: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 4:

Wrap the yarn around your left thumb in a counterclockwise motion.  

Step 5: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 5:

Wind the yarn up between your left thumb and pointer finger to form a figure-eight (8) shape.

Step 6: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 6:

Continue wrapping the yarn around your pointer finger and thumb in figure eight shapes (as in steps two thru five).

Step 7: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 7:

When you have wrapped the yarn around your fingers in figure eights at least 20 times, you can stop and move to the next step. To make a larger ball of yarn, wrap more figure eights; when the yarn wraps reach your left thumb knuckle, move to step eight.  

Step 8: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 8:

With your right thumb and pointer finger, pinch all the strands at the center of the figure-eight shape (just between your left thumb and pointer finger).

Step 9: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 9:

While continuing to pinch the center of the yarn figure-eight with your right hand, gently remove your left hand from the yarn loops.

Step 10: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 10:

Continue to pinch the center of the figure-eight with your right hand.

Step 11: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 11:

With your left hand, fold the two loops of the figure eight up, toward each other, pinching them together over your right thumb.

Step 12: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 12:

While continuing to pinch the loops with your left hand, gently remove your right thumb. Pick up the yarn strand you have been winding with your right hand.  

Step 13: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 13:

Gently wind the strand in your right hand around the yarn you have pinched in your left hand. Be sure you do not wrap the tail end of the yarn into the ball, or you will lose your center-pull. Also, try not to wind too tightly; this can make yarn lose its stretch.

Step 14: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 14:

Continue winding your yarn around until you have formed a ball in your desired size. Always ensure you do not wrap the center-pull end into the ball. When you are finished wrapping, clip the yarn with scissors (if necessary). Carefully tuck the end that you held with your right hand into the ball to secure it in place.

Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you’ve been following my lessons, you now have enough information to knit all of the washcloths and face scrubbies in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection. Happy knitting!

How to wind yarn into center-pull balls by hand - a lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Next up, a lesson about gauge. Learn what gauge means in knitting and you to check your gauge to make sure your knits end up the right size.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Shipping Cookie Gifts

Homemade cookies baked fresh from the oven are my favorite holiday gift to give. When loved ones are far away, you can ship cookies to their homes. Find Liz Chandler's tips @PurlsAndPixels
How to ship cookies for gifts and care packages, tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

How to ship cookies for gifts and care packages

This year the holiday budget was a little tight, so I decided to make everyone cookie baskets for Christmas.

Christmas cookie gifts. How to wrap cookies for gifts, tutorial from PurlsAndPixels.

For our nearby friends and family I picked up some round, decorative plastic boxes. I used cupcake papers and aluminum foil to separate the different types of cookies and arrange them nicely.

Packing up bundles of pretty cookies to give as a gift is not too difficult to do when your friends and family are local, but much of my family lives over 2000 miles away. It took a bit of creative packaging, but I was successful at shipping cookie gifts cross-country. Let me show you how I did it so you can ship your on cookie gifts for holidays and care packages.

Choosing the right cookies

Choose your favorite cookies for this project, because almost* any cookie will do. Give a big batch of your favorite kind of cookie, or make an assortment and let them try a variety of your homemade baked goods. I especially like to share Soft Gingerbread Cookies shaped like Hippos for Christmas (recipe here).

*If you plan to ship your cookies in the mail, choose cookies that are on the denser and thicker side. Treats that are especially thin or fragile can be tasty, but probably wont make it thru the mail. The cookies pictured held up well in shipping.

For my gift baskets this year, I made gingerbread cookies, snowball cookies, chocolate chip cookies, fudge, and peanut brittle. I’ve pinned all of the recipes for my favorite treats here, so check out and follow my cookie, candy, and crafty eats boards for ideas on home-cooked gifts.

Packaging materials

How to wrap cookies for gifts and care packages, tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you are mailing your cookies, you are going to need a few supplies. You’ll need:

Carefully wrap between 6 and 12 of each type of cookie in cellophane. Next, wrap that bundle of cookies again, this time loosely with in aluminum foil. Gently mold the foil around the cookies to make a block and keep the cookies from sliding around inside the bundle. Place this double-wrapped cookie bundle in a Ziploc bag. Repeat this process with the rest of the cookies that you want to ship. Place them in the shipping box, filling any empty spaces in the box with cellophane or other packing filler to make sure the cookie bundles don’t slide around in the box. I added a gift wrapped pair of handmade mittens to the box, as well. Tape up the box and you’re ready to get a shipping label and mail your cookies.

I used USPS three day priority shipping to save a few dollars, but it would probably be even better to use one day shipping.

After packing up all the cookies and treats in the box, I taped it shut and wrote FRAGILE in large capital letters with a big red marker on two sides of the box.

I shipped one package in a USPS flat rate box, and another in a standard brown shipping box. Both were successful, so use what you have available.

How they arrived

After shipping these cookies over 2000 miles from Virginia to Colorado, I expected to loose a few cookies to breakage along the way. Trucks and airplanes are bouncy, so I thought at least a few would be lost. Lucky for me, all of the cookies this year arrived in good shape. I know using the aluminum foil as a protective cushion for shipping the cookies really helped. But, I think a major part of the success of this gift project was because I was lucky with my postal carrier for USPS. The boxes had been treated very carefully. I hope your postal worker is as kind and careful as ours.

Cookies before being given as gifts by PurlsAndPixels

Did you try it? Let me know how your luck was with shipping cookie gifts. What kind of cookies did you send in your gift or care package? Did they get there in good shape? Let me know in the comments below.

More Holiday Craft Ideas

Love DIY Christmas and holiday projects? Find more handmade holiday craft ideas at my Holiday Pattern Roundup Post.

And, find my 10 Thoughtful DIY Gift Ideas here.

You can also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Printable “From Santa” Gift Tags for Christmas, a Free DIY project

Printable "From Santa" Gift Tags for Christmas, a Free DIY project from Liz Chandler

Printable “From Santa” Gift Tags for Christmas

A Free DIY project from Liz @PurlsAndPixels
Free printable "from Santa" gift tags from PurlsAndPixels

 It turns out that Santa doesn’t always remember to put tags on the presents he brings. I needed some gift tags for my presents this year, so I made up this sheet of printable “from Santa” gift tags for Christmas. If you need some gift tags for your little one’s presents, you are welcome to use mine. Below is a link to my Word document file of printable “from Santa” gift tags. Download it, add your child’s name, print, and cut out for a quick and free DIY project.

Download little “from Santa” gift tags, free from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Download little "from Santa" gift tags, free from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

How to add your child’s name

With the little “from Santa” gift tags file open in Microsoft Word, open the find and replace tool.

Type “Name” in the “Find what” field. Type your child’s name in the “Replace with” field.

Click “Replace all.”

How to use the replace tool in Microsoft Word to change names on gift tags

Print your From Santa Gift Tags

Free customizable printable gift tags from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Print on the best quality setting your printer allows. Try printing on different kinds of paper to mix up the look. If you use basic white printer paper, try cutting out a slightly larger square of colored paper or gift wrap and place it behind the label. These labels look so festive and bright.

Or, print on a natural brown colored craft paper made for printers, like I did, to get a more rustic on to your Santa Gift tags.

Cut Out your Christmas Gift Labels

These labels are smaller and will print so that you can cut them into 1.25 inch squares. Try using a paper cutter or a square paper punch to help make sure the labels come out perfectly square. Attach the labels to your gifts with a small bit of tape, and you are all done!

More Holiday Craft Ideas

Love DIY Christmas and holiday projects? Find more handmade holiday craft ideas at my Holiday Pattern Roundup Post.

Free printable "from Santa" gift tags for Christmas from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you like these printable “From Santa” Gift Tags for Christmas, I’d love hear about it. Comment below or share your photos with Liz @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.