I've been in a hat mood of late. . . guess it partly due to the changing weather. But, to be honest, it may be more due to my need for some fast, gift projects, and to try out a new set of short circular needles that I just treated myself to ;-) (Clover 16" circulars - they have been fabulous for working hats in the round!)
Also, it feels good to destash once in a while AND try out some new pattern stitches!
The first hat shown above is in a Trellis Cable stitch that was a fun challenge to work. Bobble clusters and intertwining cables made for a very interesting knit with wonderfully textured results!
The second hat is a one-ball pattern (yippee!) in Classic Elite Montera yarn. LOVE the vibrant orange color. Very fall, and yet very bright and cheery. This is a nice chunky hat with a wide cuff for warmth and a very cozy look. The stitch pattern is a simple, yet unique stitch that mimics a cable, but just consists of some strategic lifted increases. Cool technique to try out and a very quick knit that would be great for a man or woman!
I've also just completed the Zip-Front Cardigan you see here. It's a really eye-catching cardigan (IMHO!), featuring a wonderful cable and lace all-over stitch pattern, contrasted with Garter stitch neckband, front bands, and Ribbed sleeve cuffs. AND, truly whimsical Hello Kitty charms were built into the "Charmed - Hello Kitty" yarn that I got from Natalie of Namaste Farms, and used for the pocket openings and bottom edging.
The Namaste Farms yarn is the what inspired the project. . . and Natalie created the special colors in the accent yarn for me and called it "Babe!" The main yarn used in the cardigan is the ever-popular Malabrigo Worsted. This is a truly unique cardigan! It has a matching cowl as well.
All of these patterns are coming soon! Still have to write them up!
*** SPECIAL PATTERN GIVEAWAY ***
As a special giveaway, please comment on this blog post by 9pm PST, November 15th, 2011. Tell us what you think of these new upcoming patterns! One comment per person, please. And please also SHARE this post using the Twitter, Google+, and Facebook links below.
I will choose THREE winners to each receive PDF copies of all THREE of these patterns (when they are all published)! Good luck to all!
** 11/12/11 Update ** The #134 Slouchy Trellis Cabled Hat pattern is now available!
** Update ** The #136 One-Ball Chunky Cuffed Hat pattern is now available! The #135 Babe Hello Kitty Top-Down Cardigan pattern is now available too!
** Jan 2012 Update ** So, now that all 3 of these patterns are available, here's the announcement of the 3 winners:
Congrats to Muireann, Ashley Taylor, and Leslie! You have each won a PDF copy of each of these 3 patterns (they have been emailed to you already).
Great patterns! My favorite is the orange hat. Thanks for the chance to win these!
Posted by: Carmen | October 23, 2011 at 07:39 PM
I really like the zip front cardigan - very feminine, but the zipper makes it casual as well!
Posted by: kelly-ann (ravelry) | October 24, 2011 at 04:02 AM
The cardigan with a removable/addable cowl is a fantastic idea. A very nice way to make the piece more versatile.
Posted by: Anne | October 24, 2011 at 04:34 AM
I would love to knit the cable hat in Aran Wool for my daughter in America. I knit a lot of Aran work here in Ireland for her and she would LOVE this new hat for the Winter months. Fabulous site! Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Valerie Byrne | October 24, 2011 at 05:12 AM
Love these patterns. You are quite talented. Thanks for the opportunity to win. Very generous of you. Love thr knitting club!
Posted by: Cherie K Fischer | October 24, 2011 at 07:32 AM
These patterns are YUMMY! Can't wait till they are available. The hats are different enough to hold your interest, yet great for a small, quick gift. Hurry and write them up (please!).
Posted by: Cindy Sliker | October 24, 2011 at 07:33 AM
I love all of the patterns but the zip front cardigan is amazing - the perfect combination of elegant with the cables and lace and casual. It would work equally well with velvet pants or jeans. I have to make that sweater.
Posted by: Donna Anderson | October 24, 2011 at 07:36 AM
Love them all, but want to make the zip cardi! Love it! <3
Posted by: Martjehague | October 24, 2011 at 07:37 AM
Your patterns are always so beautiful - I inevitably start a new one before the current one is done, and therefore end up knitting 2 at a time! I particularly love the cardigan pattern.
Posted by: Ann Marie | October 24, 2011 at 07:37 AM
As a hat-aholic, I love the first two patterns, and the cardigan is lovely. Thanks for the chance to win!
Posted by: Muireann | October 24, 2011 at 07:37 AM
Oh my, I love the zipfront cardigan! It's so sweet, can see it on my daughter!
Posted by: Suzie Picciano | October 24, 2011 at 07:39 AM
Beautiful hat patterns, esp the 2nd hat, as I am a new knitter this one appeals to me as you stated it is simple, but looks sooo fancy. Looking forward to winning this pattern and making it :)
Ginny
Posted by: Ginny Floyd | October 24, 2011 at 07:40 AM
I <3 love the zip cardigan! The color is totally yummy and just sweet! I am going to check out the Hello Kitty charms! HOW cute!
Posted by: dianne shiozaki | October 24, 2011 at 07:40 AM
I love the cables and lace in the zip front cardigan. Hoping I'll get one of the free patterns!
Posted by: Alaine | October 24, 2011 at 07:41 AM
I love cables, too. The orange (rust) color hat is very cute. It can be for a man or a woman. I like patterns that can be used by either sex.
Posted by: Knittingdancer on Ravelry | October 24, 2011 at 07:42 AM
Wow! These are all great patterns. Love the bobble hat and I have been wanting to do a sweater with a zipper so the cardigan would be great.
Posted by: Vivian | October 24, 2011 at 07:42 AM
I love all these patterns. And I have to tell you that the best pattern I ever bought was one of yours that I used to make a Christmas present. The results were spectacular, and you made it so easy!
Posted by: Alice Burleson | October 24, 2011 at 07:42 AM
Love the new patterns; especially the orange hat. So much talent!
Posted by: Donna Benjamin | October 24, 2011 at 07:42 AM
The cardigan would be purr-fect for my DD as she goes off to college next year (give me time to make it, too!), the hats are great. I especially like the orange cabled one, though the Trellis Cable is a challenge I'd like to try as well. Looks like I'll have 3 new projects on my needles before long - lol.
Posted by: Kathleen Shuford | October 24, 2011 at 07:44 AM
I love the zip front cardigan and the orange hat! I cant wait until the patterns come out!
Posted by: Valerie | October 24, 2011 at 07:44 AM
Magnifiques patrons mais je préfère le cardigan et le premier bonnet. Bonne chance à toutes !
Posted by: Selena7092 | October 24, 2011 at 07:45 AM
I am happy to see the new cardigan as I love to knit sweaters. Your patterns are the greatest and they are beautiful. I have finished knitting a sweater using one of your patterns, I can hardly wait to give it for Christmas and take a picture. I love the cardigan and do want to make it. You shoul take pictures of you modeling these, it shows more detail. Thank you for your talent.
Posted by: Diana Follett | October 24, 2011 at 07:45 AM
Love the cabled hat -- and all your designs are so organic, I would love to knit any of them!
Posted by: Debbie | October 24, 2011 at 07:45 AM
Beautiful trellis cabled hat, so sweet and feminine and knitterly. I love this one!
Posted by: Georgie Kuna | October 24, 2011 at 07:48 AM
Love the new patterns, especially the orange hat....being a Tennessee fan, this would, of course, be my favorite!
Posted by: Jean Cline | October 24, 2011 at 07:49 AM
Love the zip front sweater - very elegant
Posted by: Gail | October 24, 2011 at 07:49 AM
All 3 are lovely. I think I'd try the orange hat first. All your patterns are wonderful. You are very gifted.
Posted by: Candice | October 24, 2011 at 07:50 AM
Three more new lovlies from you :-) I especially love the two hats as they would make divine gifts for friends for the holidays.
Posted by: Rose | October 24, 2011 at 07:53 AM
I love all three of these. Your patterns are always so cute.
Posted by: Jill | October 24, 2011 at 07:55 AM
Oh my. You have been busy. Love the hats and the cardigan is just awesome!! I have a daughter whose favorite color is pink. Boy would she LOVE this sweater in pink. Hope to win any of the three patterns. Thanks again SweaterBabe for sharing your talent and fun giveaways.
Posted by: Tammy Larink | October 24, 2011 at 07:56 AM
These are really nice patterns, just perfect for this time of year and holiday knitting. Rozstitches
Posted by: RozStitches | October 24, 2011 at 07:57 AM
My granddaughter is a HUGE Hello Kitty fan and she would love it if I made this for her. I love the color! She could wear this with jeans or a skirt!
Posted by: Cathy Troutman | October 24, 2011 at 07:58 AM
WOW! Awesome patterns! My favorite is the pink zip-front cardi. I'm sure to buy it as soon as it becomes avaliable! Greetings to all from Spain!
Posted by: Fatima Dios | October 24, 2011 at 07:59 AM
LOVE LOVE LOVE all the cables. Totally up my alley. Rav amchart
Posted by: Anne Marie | October 24, 2011 at 07:59 AM
Really like the hat pattern. Looks interesting. Keep up with your talented skills.
Posted by: Darlene Sinclair (George St Yarn Shoppe) | October 24, 2011 at 08:00 AM
Wow! Thank you for sharing your talent. Your sweater with the zipper is very unique.
Gwen
Posted by: Gwen | October 24, 2011 at 08:01 AM
Wow! Pretty in pink. I've never knitted a cardi that requires zippers. I should give it a try.
Posted by: Vicki Suan | October 24, 2011 at 08:01 AM
I think the Hello Kitty would be a huge hit at my elementary school. But I am really "feeling" the bobbled hat and I would make it in blue or burgandy.
Posted by: Yolanda Spears | October 24, 2011 at 08:02 AM
I love the zipper cardigan with cowl. Beautiful design! Thanks for the opportunity!
Posted by: Patricia Mortrud | October 24, 2011 at 08:06 AM
These are really super... Although i haven't seen anything on your website that I didn't like...
Posted by: Louise Shaw | October 24, 2011 at 08:09 AM
Wow what can I say another great pattern. LOVE LOVE LOVE the cardigan pattern it is going to be on my to buy list although may be a bit as there are several others of yours already on that list. Once I get christmas sewing and knitting done will be Nana's time. Can't wait each month to see what you are working on. Its like christmas every time I open one of the links.
Posted by: Forest Perea | October 24, 2011 at 08:09 AM
The cardigan is stunning!
Posted by: Mary Dolata | October 24, 2011 at 08:10 AM
What a fab cardi! I have a Hello Kitty tattoo on my upper arm and as the weather gets colder she's out less. What a great way to show off Hello Kitty in a garment. Can't wait to start.
Posted by: Sharon Dow | October 24, 2011 at 08:13 AM
All three look good, but that sweater is just great. I love it. The hat with bobbles is also great. I'd make both in two seconds. The second hat is interesting, but the orange color probably would be changed for me! Great job and something to look forward to!
Posted by: Sally Chrisman | October 24, 2011 at 08:13 AM
Cables, Cables, Cables! Love the sweater and it's so nice to have something that can transition from Winter to Spring!
Posted by: Eire Stewart | October 24, 2011 at 08:14 AM
The pink cardigan really caught my eye. I am a 40 year survivor of breast cancer and this is the month to think pink! I would love to make this pattern for my two daughters and teenage granddaughter. This is one pattern that I am anxious to purchase! Thanks for sharing of all of these wonderful patterns with us. You truly are a fiber artist.
Posted by: Pattie Rhudy | October 24, 2011 at 08:15 AM
I love the feminine lacyness of the bobble hat *and* the pink sweater - also like the pockets, and how the sweater is fitted - not too big - can't wait to knit it
Posted by: Elaine Yuen | October 24, 2011 at 08:21 AM
I just love the Ecru hat with the cables and bobbles - it's really a fashion statement and i am looking forward to getting the pattern. wonderful and trendy.
Posted by: Rosie | October 24, 2011 at 08:21 AM
I love the cardigan and orange hat. They all will make very special gifts for the holiday season.
Posted by: Patty Hill | October 24, 2011 at 08:22 AM
That cardigan is to die for! Love it and the hats. You just keep coming up with new patterns...wow.
Posted by: Denise | October 24, 2011 at 08:22 AM
I love them all but would especially like to make the cowl. I find these really easy but stylish!
Posted by: Tania Britten | October 24, 2011 at 08:22 AM
Hats are a great way to try new yarns and stitches and needles. :)
Posted by: nanamamah | October 24, 2011 at 08:26 AM
Love cables!!! I think these would be a pleasure to knit :-)
Posted by: Norma Horan | October 24, 2011 at 08:26 AM
The zip front cardigan caught my eye. Perfect to wear to 2012 Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival!
Posted by: Carol W | October 24, 2011 at 08:30 AM
Love the color of that sweater. I have a big Hello Kitty fan in my family and she would look fab in this sweater too.
Posted by: Kacey Reynolds | October 24, 2011 at 08:30 AM
Hi!
I liked the cardigan it´s really nice, looks nice to knit to! Pink is not my colour though. :-)
Mari G
Posted by: Mari Gustafsson | October 24, 2011 at 08:34 AM
Beautiful cardigan. Feminine love the colors chosen for each. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Posted by: Linda Gottschalk | October 24, 2011 at 08:35 AM
Love the Hello Kitty yarn. It's perfect for the cardigan!
Posted by: Sherry D. | October 24, 2011 at 08:40 AM
Beautiful patterns. Love the colors of the yarn.
Posted by: Catherine Lemanski | October 24, 2011 at 08:40 AM
Luv the sweater
Posted by: Debra Burke | October 24, 2011 at 08:44 AM
Although it look somewhat difficult I love the short sleeved sweater.
Posted by: Rosalyn | October 24, 2011 at 08:51 AM
oooohhh...I love the hat with the pseudo-cable look. Wondering how it was done...will have to buy the pattern when it comes out!
Posted by: Christine | October 24, 2011 at 08:54 AM
I love the cable and bobble hat!!! And is that a matching cowl for the sweater?? ADORABLE!!
Posted by: Monique G | October 24, 2011 at 08:56 AM
I love the Zip Cardigan. This is a great pattern!
Posted by: RaAnn | October 24, 2011 at 08:56 AM
Wow that sweater is so perfectly girlie adorable. Makes you feel happy, feminine and chic. Love!
Posted by: Jennie Might | October 24, 2011 at 09:01 AM
The yarn and the cable zip cardigan are divine. I would love to knit it.
Posted by: Pam | October 24, 2011 at 09:01 AM
Such pretty feminine patterns....they really stand out!
Posted by: Shirley | October 24, 2011 at 09:06 AM
Love the cables in these patterns -- airy not heavy
Posted by: Eileen Yager | October 24, 2011 at 09:12 AM
The sweater is beautiful and in my favorite color!
Posted by: Margot | October 24, 2011 at 09:17 AM
Love the zip front sweater. I've always had trouble sewing in zippers in knitted garments. Hope you give some good tips on that in the pattern.
Posted by: Pam C. | October 24, 2011 at 09:19 AM
Looks beautiful! I would love to win it!!!
Posted by: Laura B. | October 24, 2011 at 09:21 AM
LOVE the cable-bobble hat! Just the project I'm looking for right now.
Posted by: Naomi Fieger | October 24, 2011 at 09:27 AM
Love all of the pretty textures. They're interesting without being fussy. Really nice job!
Posted by: Linda (lindaran on Ravelry) | October 24, 2011 at 09:27 AM
I LOVE the zipped cardigan! Very feminine and practical as a layering piece for me to wear to work where the temperature always fluctuates and you never know when you need to peel a layer off.
Posted by: Terry F | October 24, 2011 at 09:39 AM
Great patterns to add to my collection!
Posted by: Susan | October 24, 2011 at 09:39 AM
I love all the patterns. Hats are my thing right now but I would also knit the sweater with longer sleeves.
Posted by: Cheryl Moreo | October 24, 2011 at 09:42 AM
Beautiful designs! I love your patterns.
Posted by: Elsa | October 24, 2011 at 09:42 AM
You make Christmas every day with your lovely knitted patterns. The anniversary scarf is gorgeous.....and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to you!
My best,
Carol
Posted by: Carol Holmes | October 24, 2011 at 09:45 AM
OM GOODNESS!!! Wonderful WONDERFUL and ONLY ONE SKEIN!!! Can't wait to make these and destash. I wish you a Happy Anniversary, the scarf is wonderful. Your work is great!
Posted by: Colleen Fitzgerald | October 24, 2011 at 10:06 AM
Another awesome pattern from Sweaterbabe! I love your zip-front cardigan - design artistry at its best.
Posted by: Della Martin | October 24, 2011 at 10:08 AM
Great patterns. They would make perfect gifts for Christmas!
Posted by: rskmom | October 24, 2011 at 10:53 AM
Beautiful pattern......and I love all your pattern ....Sorry I speak french....but " J'aime tout les patrons " Very Good Design
Posted by: Sylvie Poudrette | October 24, 2011 at 10:56 AM
I like to knit hats for charity and I'm always looking for new and exciting patterns. Your new patterns fit the bill. I,ll probably make some to keep too.
Posted by: Mary Saunders | October 24, 2011 at 11:02 AM
I love the hats it's so hard to find cute hat patterns!
Posted by: Sam Meland | October 24, 2011 at 11:05 AM
I love your patterns!! really like the trellis and bobble hat
Posted by: Carol Martin | October 24, 2011 at 11:14 AM
The zip cardigan is a great trans seasons piece, and would look great with either of the hats!
Posted by: Karen | October 24, 2011 at 11:14 AM
Love the trellis/cable/bobble hat! I can just picture it on my daughter. Please hurry up and write the pattern out! Thanks for your creativity!
Posted by: Maryanne | October 24, 2011 at 11:24 AM
I just love the zip-up sweater,but I wish it had sleeves. That would make such a lovely gift for any one. This is something that I could make for myself.
Posted by: Mai Chang | October 24, 2011 at 11:35 AM
FANTASTIC CARDIGAN - Can't wait to get pattern and get started. Love your patterns. They make wonderful gifts.
Posted by: Judy Anderson | October 24, 2011 at 11:37 AM
These are all great! I would love to win any of these! Thanks for the chance.
Posted by: Jennifer Lucas | October 24, 2011 at 11:45 AM
Beautiful! I love the cardigan the most!
Posted by: Celebrate the Odd | October 24, 2011 at 11:51 AM
Oh my!! With 14 grandchildren I would love any of these lovely kits to knit for gifts with Christmas and Birthdays year round. The patterns are outstanding and the colors are luscious.
Posted by: Judy Dalton | October 24, 2011 at 12:03 PM
Hi
Your patterns are amazing. i love what you do with cables and lace. It always inspires me greatly. Thanks for all your hard work.
Posted by: Bernadette | October 24, 2011 at 12:17 PM
Your patterns are outstanding....the best ones I have found online up to now! Each new set becomes my absolute favorite one to try next....can't keep up! But what fun trying....if wishes were horses.....or fast knitting needles?
I look forward to lots more excitement here....thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Ann Morgan | October 24, 2011 at 12:39 PM
Oh-so-beautiful cardigan full of delicate cables and color! Very, very lovely. Your designs are so nice and desireable!
Posted by: Renate (Chile) | October 24, 2011 at 12:45 PM
Love the look of the sweater. Would love to knit it. But can't buy pattern.
Posted by: ginny | October 24, 2011 at 12:56 PM
Love the grey hat! I can see it looking very nice in green, too. I'd try the orange hat in something with long colour changes.
Posted by: Margo Lynn | October 24, 2011 at 12:57 PM
I love the orange hat, interested in trying this new technique.
Posted by: Carol | October 24, 2011 at 01:10 PM
My fav is the hat with the bobbles.
Posted by: Ginger Klein | October 24, 2011 at 01:11 PM
Hats are my favorite type of knit and I adore the Trellis hat, though I have never made bobbles. I would love to try with this pattern!
Posted by: jennifer | October 24, 2011 at 01:11 PM