5 Easy Fall Knits to Cast On Now

As summer ends, it's time to think about knitting for cozy handmade fall accessories. Find 5 easy fall knits from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cozy End of Summer Projects from PurlsAndPixels 🍂

Summer is ending and fall is creeping in. Cool mornings, crunchy leaves, and that little voice telling you it is time to knit something cozy! I will admit it: I love fall so much that I like to fast-forward by knitting pumpkin-season projects before the leaves even turn. If you start a late-summer knitting project now, you’ll be bundled in handmade warmth by the time the first pumpkin spice latte hits your hands. Here are five easy, quick, and fun fall knitting patterns from PurlsAndPixels.com that are simple enough to start today and cozy enough to keep you smiling all season.

Liz Chandler's Basic Mittens Knitting Pattern is a great way to get started on your fall knits.

1. Easy Chunky Knit Boot Cuffs 👢

Want to look like you have your life together without actually trying? Knit boot cuffs. They are fast, beginner-friendly, and give you instant fall fashion cred. Slip them over your jeans, slide on boots, and you are Pinterest-ready. Bonus: they are easier than remembering which size pumpkin spice latte you ordered. Honestly, these are the little warm-ups I knit while daydreaming about crunchy leaves and cider stands. It is the perfect quick boot cuff knitting pattern to get started with.

👉 Get the Easy Boot Cuff Pattern at PurlsAndPixels.com

Make these Easy Chunky Knit Boot Cuffs in flash with this free & quick knitting pattern from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.

2. Single-Row Striped Scarf 🧣

Stripes are trending hard, and this scarf is proof you do not need complicated charts to look chic. One row does the trick: no colorwork panic here. Pick moody fall tones or go bold with pumpkin orange and plum purple. Think of it as knitting your own pumpkin patch: without the hay fever. I love starting scarves like this in September so that by October I can wrap myself up and feel smugly prepared for bonfire nights. This striped scarf knitting pattern is one of my go-to fall favorites.

👉 Find the Striped Scarf Pattern at Pattern at PurlsAndPixels.com

Make a ribbed striped scarf to add color to your cold weather outfit. Get the pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

3. Ribbed Chunky Hat 🎩

Cold ears? Not on my watch. This chunky ribbed hat knits up faster than you can say “I will just do one more row.” Big needles, fat yarn, and instant gratification: you will have it done before your cider cools down. Perfect for hiding bedhead on those chilly mornings when coffee is not enough. I knit these hats while daydreaming about the first frost, because nothing feels more “fall” than pulling a fresh knit over cold ears. Try this chunky hat knitting pattern for instant cozy vibes.

👉 Get the Ribbed Chunky Hat Pattern at PurlsAndPixels.com

Easy, quick ribbed chunky hat knitting pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

4. Simple Mitten Pattern 🧤

Leaf piles, pumpkin patches, apple cider walks: mittens make them better. My simple mitten pattern is easy enough for beginners and cozy enough that you will actually wear them. Knit a pair for yourself, then brace yourself: family members will want them too, and unlike pumpkin pie, you cannot just bake more overnight. I like casting these on in late summer so that when the leaves finally fall, I already have pockets full of warm, handmade comfort. This simple mitten knitting pattern is perfect for first-timers.

👉 Find the Simple Mitten Pattern at PurlsAndPixels.com

Learn to knit Simple Mittens with this knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

5. Rice Stitch Baby Blanket 🛋️

Want a project that screams cozy but does not scream complicated? Try the rice stitch blanket. It is squishy, textured, and perfect for curling up with tea and Netflix. Knit one square at a time or go all in: either way, it is more satisfying than finishing a fall candle before Halloween. I start blankets early because I know myself: the minute the wind shifts, I want to be wrapped up in something handmade. This rice stitch blanket knitting pattern will keep your needles and your home warm.

👉 Get the Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern at PurlsAndPixels.com

Liz Chandler's Rice Stitch Afghan Throw Blanket Knitting Pattern @PurlsAndPixels

Bonus: Pumpkin Hat and Gloves 🎃🧤

If you are the type who goes all in on pumpkin season (guilty 🙋‍♀️), you will love my pumpkin hat and matching gloves knitting pattern. The hat is cozy and cheeky with its pumpkin-inspired design, and the gloves add the perfect seasonal finish. Whether you wear them to the pumpkin patch or just to sip pumpkin spice at home, this set is pure autumn joy.

👉 Get the Pumpkin Hat and Gloves Pattern at PurlsAndPixels.com

Pumpkin hat and gloves knitting pattern set by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why Start Now? ⏳

Fall does not wait, and cozy does not knit itself. By starting these projects now, you will be wrapped in handmade warmth just as sweater weather arrives. Plus, chunky knits, stripes, and cozy neutrals are gorgeous knitting trends of 2025, and you can say you were ahead of the curve. I am already casting on because for me, knitting is like hitting the fast-forward button to my favorite season.

What do you knit in the summer? I’ve got a hat on the needles in my cozy pool of sunshine today. ☀️

Stich Summer into Fall

Ready to be the cozy one at the cider stand? Cast on today, during the last days of summer, finish before the frost, and strut into fall wearing knits you made yourself. Every pattern here is waiting for you on PurlsAndPixels.com: because why just buy cozy when you can knit it and sneak a little extra fall into your life early.

More Patterns You’ll Love

🍂 Cozy Up with Fall Knitting: More Fall-inspired Knitting Projects

🧣 Easy Chunky Knit Scarf Pattern: A Warm, Wearable Hug

🙏 Gratitude Blanket Pattern: When You Need Extra-Cozy Knitting Joy

🎉 Basic Slouch Hat Pattern: A Versatile Style Option

🔥 Basic Ear Warmer Pattern: Quick Gift-Ready Project

🧹 All Knitting Patterns by Liz: Learn to Knit All the Things

Read More

Don’t Miss a Stitch!

Love cozy knitting projects? Join me on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram! And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

What is Yarn Chicken?

What is yarn chicken? Hint: it has everything to do with yarn and nothing to do with chickens. Find out with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

The Bravery Test of the Crafting World 🧶

I just played a risky little game. I really wanted a new, quick hat. After rummaging through my yarn stash, I found just the skein I wanted. Instead of being a responsible knitter (weighing my yarn and checking my instructions) I decided to wing it and play yarn chicken. It looked like enough…

I started knitting my hat and it was looking great. I made it nearly to the top, the whole time feeling certain that this would be just enough yarn. But, sadly, I guessed wrong. I ran out just before the top of the hat. 😢

Ever guess you have enough yarn instead of making sure? Then you've played yarn chicken. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

There wasn’t time to go to town for more yarn, and I didn’t want to scrap the hat. So I started digging through my project stash.

I found a rogue boot cuff with no match. But it was the same yarn. So I unraveled it and tied it into the hat project with a magic knot.

That little, lonely boot cuff, made of matching yarn gave me just enough to finish my hat. That is the heart of yarn chicken: it’s the most reckless game a knitter can play. Sometimes, it is a quiet little win and a happy dance. 💃 Other times, you’ll lose the round and have to pivot.

I had to sacrifice a little boot cuff to finish my hat because I played a game of yarn chicken. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

What is Yarn Chicken?

Hint: it has everything to do with yarn and nothing to do with chickens.

What is yarn chicken? Hint: it has everything to do with yarn and nothing to do with chickens. Find out with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

If you have ever heard of the old game of chicken, where teenagers would drive their cars straight at each other to see who would swerve first, then you already get the idea. Yarn chicken is the slower, quieter, far more practical version of that reckless dare. No engines. No headlights. It’s not life and death. It’s just you, your project, and a rapidly shrinking skein of yarn.

Yarn chicken is when you size up your skein with nothing but your gut and a hopeful squint. You skip the scale, bypass the calculator, and knit like you’ve got enough. Because maybe you do. Maybe you don’t. But you’re not stopping to find out. It is part grit, part gamble, and all heart.

Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn’t. That is the game.

Why Play Yarn Chicken?

Because you just want to see if you can pull it off. You’re in a groove, you’re not interested in stopping to do math, and that half-used skein looks promising enough. Yarn chicken gives you a chance to lean into instinct instead of spreadsheets.

It is not laziness or forgetfulness. It’s choosing motion over caution, momentum over planning. And yes, once in a while, it’s just more fun this way.

You learn a lot when you play yarn chicken: about yarn, about rhythm, and about how far a single stitch can stretch when it really matters.

Sometimes you win, sometimes you don't when you play a game of yarn chicken. If you lose, make sure you have a backup plan. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

When You Lose

Losing at yarn chicken does not always mean starting over. It might mean improvising. You might unravel something else, work in a stripe, or change the ending of the pattern slightly to use what you have got.

It is not failure. It is flexibility.

I was sure I had enough yarn. I did not. So, I had to frog (unravel) to finish my hat. 🐸 #knitting

If You Want to Avoid It

You can avoid yarn chicken if you:

  • Weigh your yarn before you begin a section.
  • Compare the yardage used in earlier parts of the pattern.
  • Use patterns with detailed estimates (I include them in all my patterns).
  • Swatch and plan precisely.

All of that works. I even recommend it most of the time.

But every now and then, if it feels right, I still play.

To Play or Not to Play

Yarn chicken is not about being careless. It is about reading the yarn, trusting your gut, and being willing to shift gears when the skein runs short. It is about choosing progress over perfection and being bold enough to see how far one strand will take you.

I have lost my fair share. I have torn out rows, patched in stripes, and unraveled forgotten cuffs. But I have also finished with half an inch to spare and felt like a champion.

That’s why I still play.

If you dare to play, you can win yarn chicken. Learn more with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Looking for patterns you can finish without a gamble?

🥳 Ribbed Chunky Hat Free Knitting Pattern: Knit the Hat in this Post (substitute Wool Ease Thick & Quick by Lion Brand Yarn “Carousel” affiliate link)

🥾 Easy Chunky Knit Boot Cuffs Free Knitting Pattern: Make a set of adorable mini leg warmers.

🧶 Explore all the Knitting Patterns written by Liz Chandler: Find something you will love to make.

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Join me on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram! And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

What Is Continental Knitting?

What is Continental Knitting? Learn how to knit with the yarn in your left hand using free lessons by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Continental Knitting Explained 🧵

If you’ve ever seen someone knit so quickly it looks like magic (or maybe old-school homestead sorcery), they might be using Continental knitting. This technique, often called “picking,” involves holding the yarn in your left hand and grabbing it with the needle rather than wrapping it around manually. It’s efficient, elegant, and a favorite among speed knitters and cozy crafters alike.

What Makes Continental Knitting Different?

Unlike English-style knitting (where the yarn is held in the right hand and “thrown” around the needle), Continental knitting keeps the yarn tensioned in the left hand. The right needle grabs or “picks” the yarn to form each stitch: less flailing, more flow.

Continental knitting tends to be faster for many folks once they get the hang of it. Because there’s less hand movement between stitches, your projects can fly off the needles. It’s perfect for finishing up a sweater before the snow hits or gifting beanies to everyone at the bonfire.

Continental Knitting vs. English Knitting

Benefits of Continental Knitting for Beginners

  • Speed: With practice, it can dramatically increase your knitting speed.
  • Efficiency: Fewer movements mean less hand strain, which can help reduce repetitive stress injuries.
  • Great for left-handed knitters: Since the yarn is in your left hand, some lefties find this method more intuitive.
  • Smooth colorwork: Stranded knitting (like Fair Isle) is easier because you can hold one color in each hand and feel like a yarn-wielding wizard next to the woodstove.

Personal Note from Liz 🖋️

I actually never learned to knit any other way. Because I started with crochet, knitting Continental felt more natural from the start. Holding the yarn in my left hand just made sense. There was no awkward learning curve or dramatic battle with tension. I didn’t even know it had a fancy name; it was just what my hands wanted to do.

Now, I teach Continental knitting in my lessons at PurlsAndPixels.com/learn-to-knit because it helps beginners build even tension and knit more fluidly from the start. That page walks you through step-by-step video tutorials for each foundational skill: from casting on, to knitting and purling Continental style, to finishing your first project with rustic flair.

Continental Knitting Tips for Beginners

Want to try this right away? Grab your yarn and follow along with my free video tutorials at my Learn to Knit Index. You’ll be grabbing stitches like a pro in no time.

How to hold your yarn when knitting, a lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Common Mistakes When Learning Continental

Should You Switch to Continental Knitting?

If you already knit comfortably using English style, there’s no need to switch unless you’re curious or want to knit fast enough to make your coffee jealous. But if you’re just starting out, Continental knitting can be a smoother road to even stitches and faster progress.

Get Started with Continental Knitting Lessons

🧵 Want a head start? Sign up here to get my free Knitting Starter Kit. It includes printable cheat sheets, beginner tips, a free pattern, and everything you need to start stitching with confidence.

🧶 Ready to follow along? Visit the Learn to Knit Index to get free knitting lessons, watch full video demonstrations, get a printable guide, and explore beginner-friendly knitting patterns to get you going.

📚 Prefer books? Grab a copy of Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns, an all-in-one, eye-catching textbook with step-by-step instructions, patterns, and guidance to take you from your first stitch to your first finished project.

Frequently Asked Questions about Continental Knitting

Q: Is Continental knitting better than English?
A: It depends on your style. Continental is faster and more ergonomic for some knitters. English style might feel more natural if you’re used to it.

Q: Is Continental knitting good for beginners?
A: Absolutely! Especially if you’ve crocheted before, holding yarn in your left hand will feel familiar.

Q: Can Continental knitting improve my speed?
A: Yes. Many knitters report faster knitting with less hand fatigue once they get used to the movements.

Q: What’s the best yarn for learning Continental knitting?
A: A medium-weight yarn (like worsted) in a light color makes it easier to see your stitches. Pair it with wood or bamboo needles to keep things steady.

Tried this method? Tag me @purlsandpixels so I can cheer you on! Or leave a comment on the blog—I love hearing about your projects.

📍 Putting the First Stitches on Knitting Needles: Learn to Cast On

🧶 How to Knit: The Knit Stitch (Continental Style)

🧵 How to Purl: Continental Purl Stitch for Beginners

✂️ How to Bind Off in Knitting (Step-by-Step Guide)

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Sign up for my newsletter to get free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

Free Knitting Starter Kit

Liz Chandler's Free Knitting Starter Kit is filled with simple lessons that teach you to knit your first project at PurlsAndPixels.

Learn to Knit, Skip the Overwhelm (and the Urge to Throw Your Yarn) 🧶

Does knitting feel confusing or intimidating? You are not alone. If you are curious about knitting but do not know where to begin, or feel nervous about making mistakes, this free starter kit is made just for you. Whether you are brand new or need a reset after a frustrating experience (like that scarf you accidentally turned into a tangled spaghetti monster), this free knitting starter kit helps you feel confident from your very first stitches.

You will receive a printable pattern, a quick-start cheat sheet, and calm, clear video tutorials that walk you through every step. It is like having a knitting coach in your inbox (without the pressure).

Learn to make the knit stitch, a free knitting tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

What You Will Get in the Free Knitting Starter Kit:

  • 🧶 Beginner-Friendly Pattern
    A cozy, practical project designed to teach you as you go. Printable, accessible, and frustration-free.
  • 📋 Quick-Reference Cheat Sheet
    Learn the essential stitches and techniques with a one-page guide you can keep at your side.
  • 📺 Video Tutorials
    Calm, clear instructions filmed in natural light. A relaxed pace and peaceful setting help you follow along with ease.

Why this Free Knitting Lesson Starter Kit Works:

  • I’ve spent more than 10 years helping real people learn practical knitting skills, both online and in person.
  • Thousands of knitters have trusted my tutorials for their gentle pace, no-fluff instruction, and beginner-friendly guidance.
  • I focus on building your confidence so you can relax and actually enjoy knitting.
Learn to bind off, a knitting lesson in the free knitting starter kit from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Ready to Start Knitting?

Sign up now, and I’ll send everything straight to your inbox. Your knitting journey starts with clarity, comfort, and maybe even a happy squeal when it clicks into place. Grab your yarn and let’s cast on together!

Join the Free Knitting Starter Kit List 🎁

Get the Free Knitting Starter Kit

Sign up below to have the free pattern, cheat sheet, and video tutorials delivered straight to your inbox! 🧶
No pressure. Just peaceful progress and cozy stitches, one row at a time.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

About the Creator

Hi! I’m Liz Chandler, the founder of PurlsAndPixels and the author of Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns. I create clear, approachable tutorials that help everyday people build real skills. My teaching style blends calm encouragement with lighthearted empathy (all we can do is laugh at our mistakes right?).

Read more about me here.

Learn to knit slouch hats with this knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Explore More:

Grow your skills, one peaceful stitch at a time.

Free Beginner Face Scrubby knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Sign up for my newsletter to get free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

Y2K & ’90s Knitwear is Back

2025 knitting and crochet trends are all about the throw back to 2000s and 1990s fashion. Learn about the style and how to harness it in your knitwear with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Trendy Styles to Knit & Crochet Now 🕺

The early 2000s are calling, and they want their knitwear back! But too bad, we are keeping it! Nostalgic fashion is in full swing, and for those of us who lived through the rise of fuzzy cardigans, slouchy sweaters, and holey-knit tops the first time around, it is both a blast from the past and a prime opportunity to knit or crochet our own throwback wardrobe.

As a true child of this era, this trend is giving me flashbacks. Yes, I am aging myself (shhh don’t tell)! The fashion, the music, the questionable style choices; it is all coming back, and I am here for it.

Back in the 2000s vertical stripes, lacy cardigans, and layering knitwear was all the rage.

Chunky, Oversized Sweaters! 🧶

Remember those ultra-slouchy, oversized sweaters that draped over your jeans or, let us be honest, your low-rise cargo pants? They are back, and the bigger, the better. Knitters and crocheters alike are loving loose silhouettes with exaggerated sleeves and plush, cozy textures. Whether you are crafting a ribbed turtleneck or a roomy pullover, this trend is perfect for layering and lounging in peak Y2K style.

2025 knitwear trends include big oversized lacy sweaters layered over dresses like this or with low rise flare bottom jeans.

Mesh and Open-Knit Tops! ✨

If you were not layering a sheer, holey-knit top over a spaghetti strap tank in the late 1990s, were you even there? Mesh-inspired knitting and crochet are seeing a huge resurgence, giving us the perfect excuse to recreate those lightweight, grunge-meets-boho pieces. Look for airy, breathable patterns that let you channel your inner early 2000s icon.

Liz of PurlsAndPixels in a boho sparkle sweater.

Fuzzy and Fluffy Everything! 🐑

Eyelash yarn and mohair are having a serious moment again. Once the go-to texture for cropped cardigans and furry accessories, these soft and fuzzy fibers are making their way into modern knits. Think pastel-colored boleros, plush shrug-style sweaters, and even fuzzy leg warmers to complete the look.

Learn to knit leg warmers with this knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Sleeves That Make a Statement! 🎭

From bell sleeves to extra-long, scrunchy arm warmers, statement sleeves are taking over. Inspired by early 2000s emo, goth, and indie fashion, long knit sleeves that cover half your hands are making a comeback. This trend is perfect for both warmth and aesthetic appeal.

Vertical Stripes & Tall Socks are Back! 🧦

On a recent trip to JCPenney, I could not help but notice the wave of Y2K and ’90s knitwear styles taking over the racks. Chunky striped sweaters, cropped fuzzy cardigans, and knee-high socks in every color lined the displays, bringing back serious 90s nostalgia. It was like stepping into a time machine, only this time, we can appreciate these styles with fresh eyes. Whether shopping for ready-to-wear pieces or knitting your own, the revival of these trends is everywhere, proving that what was once old is new again! You can check out some of these throwback-inspired knits yourself at JCPenney’s sweater collection.

Pair a sleeveless knit tank with vertical striped shorts for a true 1990's fashion flashback. And if you want to be


Flipping through old family photos from the ’90s, I could not help but notice one thing: vertical stripes and tall white socks were everywhere! And guess what? They are back in full force. Striped knit sweaters, especially in bold primary colors or pastel shades, are making a huge comeback. Pair them with high-waisted jeans, tennis skirts, or even classic cargo pants for that effortlessly cool retro vibe. And let’s not forget the knee-high white socks, once a staple of preppy and sporty fashion, now being styled with everything from chunky sneakers to platform sandals.

90s styles are back for 2025. Knit some tall socks or vertical stripes to jump on these fashion trends with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Granny Squares but Modernized! 🎨

Crochet’s revival means the classic granny square is back in a fresh, contemporary way. Think bright, clashing colors or minimalist monochrome sets. Granny square tops, cardigans, and even patchwork-style dresses are flooding fashion runways and indie boutiques alike. Peak Y2K and ’90s knitwear style in 2025 fashion!

Bright colors, stripes, and unique textures were all over '90s and Y2K fashion... and they're back!

The Rise of DIY and Upcycling! ♻️

One of the best things about this nostalgic knitwear revival is that it is perfect for DIYers. Instead of hunting through thrift shops for authentic pieces from the past (which is also great fun!), makers are creating their own retro knits, upcycling old sweaters, and embracing slow fashion. Patterns inspired by Y2K and ’90s knitwear are emerging everywhere, from oversized vests to chunky scarves and knit handbags.

How to Make the Y2K and ’90s Knitwear Trend Your Own! 🌟

Whether you are picking up your needles for the first time or diving into your yarn stash for a full-on 2000s reboot, this trend is all about personal expression. Play with bold colors, mix textures, and do not be afraid to go over the top. That was the true essence of early 2000s fashion and it’s back for 2025.

Pair a chunky sweater with a flowy sundress... then you'll  be rocking the '90s and Y2K knitwear trend for 2025. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Dust off your knitting needles, dig out that fuzzy yarn, and get ready to relive the fashion era that gave us butterfly clips, cargo pants, and, most importantly, unforgettable knitwear. The best part is that this time, you get to make it exactly the way you want.

Chunky knits with unique details are all the rage right now for 2025 fashion. If you knit, its so much fun to DIY sweaters like this. Learn to knit with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Simple Cup Cozy: A Free Pattern with Worsted Weight Yarn

🌴 Spring Break Knitting: Relaxing with Yarn

🧣Chunky Knit Scarf Pattern: Simple, Quick, and Beautiful

🙏 Gratitude Blanket Pattern: Cozy Comfort for Every Home

🛁 How to Knit a Washcloth: A Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

Spring Break Knitting

Spring is here and while the kids party I'm over here spring break knitting. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

From Woolly Winters to Cotton and Palm Trees 🌴

Spring break: the season of college kids flocking to beaches, families heading to amusement parks, and, if you’re like me, knitters swapping out thick wool for breezy cotton. Right now, I am knitting a cotton washcloth in front of a palm tree in Arizona. Yes, you read that correctly. While others are sipping umbrella drinks 🍹 and making questionable life choices, I am clicking away with my needles, making the smooth transition from winter knits to spring essentials.

From Cozy to Cool: The Spring Knitting Shift 🧶

Winter knitting is all about survival: bulky scarves, hats you could store snacks in, and blankets that double as emergency shelters. But once the temperatures rise, no one wants to wrestle with a wool blanket in their lap unless they enjoy marinating in their own sweat. Spring knitting is the perfect excuse to lighten things up.

Spring break knitting a cotton dishcloth in front of a palm tree. Get the knitting pattern and lessons from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Enter cotton yarn, the MVP of warm-weather knitting. It is breathable, soft, and perfect for quick projects like washcloths, market bags, and lightweight shawls. I, myself, am working on a ribbed double stripped dishcloth (pattern here).

Knitting with cotton also forces a mindset shift. The dense, structured feel of wool yarn gives way to a looser, more relaxed stitch. It is like going from wearing a parka in the Rockies 🏔️ to lounging in flip-flops under an Arizona palm tree 🌴. You have to adjust your tension, embrace the drape, and accept that cotton knitting does not have the same forgiving stretch as wool. It is a little stubborn… kind of like me when someone tells me knitting is for grandmas. 🙄 (See Knitting Myths Unraveled for my unfiltered opinion on that!)

Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels knitting a hat under a palm tree.

🌞 Spring Break, But Make It Knitting

Spring break is traditionally about relaxation, which means your spring knitting projects should follow suit. A cotton washcloth is the perfect project: small enough to toss in a beach bag 🏖️, easy enough to knit while half-watching a sunset 🌅, and practical enough to use later. Plus, let’s be honest, it is a good excuse to knit in warm weather without sweating through a half-finished sweater.

Speaking of unexpected things in the desert, did you know that Lake Havasu City is home to the original London Bridge? 🌉 Yes, the one from the nursery rhyme. A businessman in the 1960s decided to ship the whole thing from England to Arizona, because why not? It is now a tourist attraction, spanning a canal where spring breakers cruise by on jet skis. Meanwhile, I am over here knitting a washcloth and admiring a piece of British history in the Southwest. Not exactly a wild spring break story, but if you ask me, a stress-free afternoon with my knitting needles beats a sunburn and regret any day.

The Takeaway: Seasonal Knitting Wins 🌷

Transitioning from winter knitting to spring knitting is not just about yarn choice. It is about embracing the season, shifting to smaller, lighter projects, and letting your knitting patterns match your environment. Whether you are knitting in Arizona, on a road trip 🚗, or in your backyard with a fresh breeze 🍃, the key is to keep it simple and enjoyable.

So, if you find yourself swapping wool for cotton yarn and trading in cable knitting needles for a mindless garter stitch, welcome to the club. Spring break knitting might not be mainstream, but neither are we, and honestly, that is what makes it fun. 🎉🧶

Learn to Knit Index: All My Free Online Knitting Lessons Gathered In One Place

Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns (a hardcover book)

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

7 Knitting Myths That Might Be Holding You Back

7 Knitting Myths you should not believe. You can learn to knit with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Knitting is supposed to be fun, right? But thanks to a few lingering knitting myths, some people never even pick up the needles or, worse, give up too soon. Let’s unravel these myths and get you stitching with confidence.

Don't let these 7 knitting myths hold you back. You won't get all tangled up, you can learn to knit with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

1. 🚫 “Knitting is Just for Grandmas”

Reality: Have you seen social media lately? Knitting is everywhere, and it’s for everyone. Cozy-loving homesteaders, edgy fashion designers, and creative minds of all kinds are picking up needles. Plus, have you ever met a grandma? They’re hardcore. If knitting is just for them, we should all aspire to be as cool as they are. 👵💞

2. 🚫 “You Have to Be Good at Math to Knit”

Reality: If you can count to ten and do a little basic stitch tracking, you’re all set. Most of the “math” in knitting is just making sure you have the same number of stitches you started with. And if things go a little off? That’s just creative flair. 🧶💃

3. 🚫 “Expensive Yarn is Always Better”

Reality: Just because it costs as much as your rent doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. Acrylic won’t betray you with a surprise felting incident in the wash, and budget-friendly wool blends can be just as soft as the fancy stuff. You don’t have to buy into this knitting myth. The best yarn? The one you’ll actually use. 🧵💰

4. 🚫 “I Don’t Have the Attention Span for Knitting”

Reality: If you’ve ever scrolled social media for an hour instead of doing literally anything productive, you absolutely have the attention span for knitting. The trick is to knit while watching TV, listening to a podcast, or pretending to pay attention in Zoom meetings (Shhhh 🤫 I didn’t suggest that last one!). 📺🎧

5. 🚫 “You Have to Follow the Pattern Exactly”

Reality: Patterns are like recipes. Some people follow them to the letter; others throw in a pinch of this and a dash of that. Want longer sleeves? Go for it. Hate the neckline? Change it. You’re the boss of your yarn. 📜✂️

6. 🚫 “Knitting Takes Too Long”

Reality: You don’t need to spend months knitting a sweater to be a “real knitter.” Some projects take an evening; some take a year. Your stitches don’t expire if you set them down for a while. Start small, take your time, and if all else fails, a chunky yarn and big needles will have you cranking out projects at lightning speed. ⏳⚡

7. 🚫 “I’ll Just Finish This Row Before Bed”

Reality: We both know you’re about to finish the whole sleeve and fall into a knitting-induced time warp where suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and your alarm is in four hours. Accept your fate. 🌙😴

Don’t Let the Knitting Myths Stop You!

Now that these knitting myths are officially frogged (for knitting newbies, that’s the fancy word for unraveled), what’s stopping you? Grab your yarn and needles. It’s time to knit without fear! 🧶✨

Some myths just need to be… unraveled. 🧶✨

Get Started Knitting Today

  1. Picking Out Your First Knitting Materials
  2. Learn to Make a Slip Knot
  3. Learn to Put Your Stitches on the Knitting Needles (“Cast-on”)
  4. How to Make the Knit Stitch

Learn to Knit Index: All My Free Online Knitting Lessons Gathered In One Place

Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns (a hardcover book)

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

Upgrade Your Knitting: Best Worsted Weight Yarn Substitutes (2025)

Upgrade Your Knitting: Best Worsted Weight Yarn Substitutes (2025) Liz Chandler's Guide @PurlsAndPixels.

Why Upgrade Your Yarn? 🧶

If you’re anything like me, you probably started out with budget-friendly acrylic yarns like Caron Simply Soft. They’re easy to find, affordable, and great for learning. But as I delved deeper into knitting, I discovered a world of yarns that can elevate projects from “nice” to truly special. And there is a vast world of worsted weight yarn substitutes to explore.

Malabrigo Rios is my favorite substitute for Caron Simply Soft Yarn. The soft merino wool is an amazing upgrade. Learn more with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

I’ve experimented with various fibers, textures, and brands, and let me tell you, switching up your yarn can completely transform the feel of your finished piece. If you’re ready to upgrade your stash and explore options with better texture, durability, and stitch definition, here are my top worsted-weight recommendations!

Switching out the yarn brand can create a unique look on even the most simple patterns. Find yarn suggestions from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Note: As the creator of PurlsAndPixels and author of “Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide,” I’m committed to sharing honest recommendations and celebrating the evolving craft of knitting. These are yarns I personally love and use in my own knitting, but I have no direct affiliations with the companies. However, this post does contain Amazon affiliate links to help keep my content going – full transparency!

Quick Yarn Comparison Guide (Organized by Price and Quality)

Yarn NameFiber ContentBest ForPrice Range
Caron Simply SoftBasic AcrylicBeginner Projects$
Lily Sugar’n Cream100% CottonKitchen Items$
Lion Brand Wool-EaseWool/Acrylic BlendEveryday Items$
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton100% CottonSummer Wear$
Patons Classic Wool100% WoolEveryday Wear$$
Lion Brand HeartlandPremium AcrylicCozy Sweaters$$
Knit Picks Wool of the Andes100% Highland WoolTraditional Woolens$$
Malabrigo Rios100% Superwash MerinoSpecial Projects, Gifts$$$
Madelinetosh Vintage100% Superwash MerinoLuxury Garments$$$
Brooklyn Tweed Shelter100% American WoolHeirloom Knits$$$
Ancient Arts YarnVarious Artisanal FibersUnique Keepsakes$$$

Best Budget-Friendly Yarn Alternatives ($)

Lion Brand Wool-Ease (Wool/Acrylic Blend)

✔ Soft and easy to work with
✔ Beginner-friendly wool option
Great for: Basic Slouch Hat Knitting Pattern

Lily Sugar’n Cream (100% Cotton)

✔ Durable and machine washable
✔ Great for dishcloths and summer projects
Great for: Double-Stripe Ribbed Washcloth Knitting Pattern

Mid-Range Yarn Upgrades ($$)

Patons Classic Wool (100% Wool)

✔ Excellent stitch definition
✔ Perfect for cozy accessories
Great for: Twisty Cable Ear Warmer Headband Knitting Pattern

Lion Brand Heartland (Premium Acrylic)

✔ Ultra-soft with a heathered finish
✔ Machine washable and low-maintenance
Great for: Chunky Beanie Hat Knitting Pattern

Premium Yarns on Amazon ($$$)

Malabrigo Rios (100% Superwash Merino) – My Top Pick!

✔ Buttery soft and hand-dyed
✔ Excellent stitch definition, perfect for gifts
Great for: Simple Mitten Knitting Pattern

Luxury Yarns Worth Seeking Beyond Amazon ($$$)

Madelinetosh Vintage (100% Superwash Merino)

✔ Rich, hand-dyed colors with incredible depth
✔ Perfect for luxury garments and statement pieces

Brooklyn Tweed Shelter (100% American Wool)

✔ Woolen-spun for lightweight warmth
✔ Stunning texture, ideal for heirloom knits

Ancient Arts Yarn (Artisanal, Hand-Dyed Fibers)

✔ Unique colorways, supports independent dyers
✔ Great for meaningful gifts and custom projects

Substituting yarn in knitting patterns, reading knitting patterns with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

FAQs

Q: What is your favorite luxury worsted weight yarn substitute?
A: My absolute favorite luxury yarn is Malabrigo Rios! It is incredibly soft, hand-dyed, and has stunning stitch definition.

Q: Will these yarns work with your patterns?
A: Absolutely! Most of my patterns are designed for worsted weight yarn. These worsted weight yarn substitutes can elevate simple knits into heirloom pieces!

Q: How do I care for premium wool yarns?

  • Hand wash in cool water with wool-safe soap
  • Lay flat to dry
  • Store in a cool, dry place
  • Add a cedar sachet to keep moths away

Let’s Talk Yarn!

I’m always on the lookout for amazing yarns to try! Do you have a favorite worsted-weight yarn that you swear by? Whether it’s an old favorite or a new discovery, I’d love to hear your recommendations. Drop a comment below and let me know what makes it special! 🧶✨

Ready to knit? Grab a copy of Knitting the Simple Things (a glossy hardcover with 15 classic worsted-weight knitting patterns in sizes for everyone). Or, dive into your own pattern writing with my beautiful knitting journals to track your making journey!

Happy crafting,
Liz 🧶

💌 Don’t miss a stitch. Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive patterns, homesteading tips, and special offers.