Why start thinking about Christmas in July?

Christmas in July has become a tradition, and it serves as a good reminder to not leave things to the last minute... again... So, for this year, here is a beautiful variety of crochet and knitting craft projects. After all you are probably still working on your summer crochet or knitting projects. Have you even begun planning your Christmas presents yet? According to a recent story I read, people are looking for Christmas ideas and gifts online earlier than ever before. Here are a few gift ideas you can start considering now so you will be prepared for December. Knitting and crocheting can be slow-paced hobbies, so getting started on big projects as soon as possible is essential! Now is the time to start knitting or crocheting blankets or garments. Let's get started!

Colors and Yarn Selection 

Red, green, and white are the yarn colors that occur the most in the patterns below. If you are looking for a soft, light worsted yarn for these products check out this yarn! KnitPal Tweed Twinkles Soft Acrylic Baby Yarn with Flecks. The best colors to use for Christmas are Hunter Green and Apple Red. If you are feeling a more solid color yarn try KnitPal Cotton to The Core, Soft Heathered Cotton Blend with Halo for Knitting or Crocheting. The Best colors for Christmas patterns are Cherry Red, Shamrock Green, and Pearl White.

Ordainments

Easy Crochet Wreath Ordainment is a quick and easy beginner friendly pattern perfect for any tree. Pattern by Skip to my Lou. Uses a crochet hook size E and does require a small wooden ring. Easy Crochet Wreath Ordainment 

Knit Christmas Trees use the  beginner friendly garter stitch. The two pieces are stitched together and stuffed to give a lush 3D look. Pattern by Gina Michele. Uses size US 8 single point needles and required a yarn needle and fiber fill. Knit Christmas Trees  

Decorations

Crochet Nativity Set is a great way to bring the picture of a Christmas story into your home or to be given as a gift! Pattern by 5 Little Monsters. Uses crochet hook size G. Also requires a small dowel for the star, fabric scraps, weighted stuffing beads, fiberfill, sewing thread, and sewing needle. Crochet Nativity Set 

Santa’s Laundry Line is an adorable knitting pattern for the perfect Christmas garland. This unique piece will draw everyone’s eye and may even make Santa think he is back at home. Pattern available for free download on Ravely designed by Eleonore von Castelmur. Yarn weight and needle size can be easily adjusted to determine the size that you want. Santa’s Laundry Line

Stockings

Jolly Christmas Crochet Stocking Pattern is a timeless item that can be made for each family member and is something that may be passed down through generations! Any color can be used for this pattern and can be adorned with puffs, tassels, and more. Pattern by A Crafty Concept. Uses crochet hook size H. Finished size is approximately 18 inches tall and 6.5 inches wide. Jolly Christmas Crochet Stocking Pattern 

Vintage Christmas Stocking Knitting Pattern is worked from the toe up and brings a classic charm to any fireplace. Pattern available for free download on Ravely designed by Paula Levy Designs. Uses a bulky weight yarn and three needle sizes (US 9, US 8, US 7).  Vintage Christmas Stocking Knitting Pattern  

Hats

Christmas Vacation Crochet Beanie is a pattern that uses puff stitches to create a whimsical look. Pattern by With Alex. Uses crochet hook size G. Size of the finished hat is for adult size small (20 to 22 inches). Christmas Vacation Crochet Beanie 

Christmas Tree Farm Truck Hat Free Knitting Pattern is available in baby, toddler, kid, woman, and man sizes. You will be crafting hats for all of your friends! Pattern by Fox and Pine Stitches. Uses US size 6 circular needles, US size 7 circular needles, and US size 7 double pointed needles.  Christmas Tree Farm Truck Hat Free Knitting Pattern  

Scarfs

C2C Snowman Scarf Free Crochet Pattern uses the corner to corner crochet technique. This free crochet design is adorable and ideal for the colder months. Pattern by Winding Road Crochet. Uses crochet hook size G. Buttons are needed for this pattern and can be purchased separately or can be crocheted out of black yarn. C2C Snowman Scarf Free Crochet Pattern

Christmas Holly Knit Scarf is an intermediate level scarf design that is adorned with knit leaves and pom poms that are sewn into place. Pattern by Wiam’s Crafts. Uses US size 7 needles and a tapestry needle. Christmas Holly Knit Scarf

Blankets

Best to start this one now to finish in time for Christmas! Most blankets take well over 20 hours and often take makers a few months to execute.

Red Heart Christmas Wreath Throw is a crochet pattern that would be a delightful addition to anyone’s holiday décor. Pattern by Yarnspirations. Uses crochet hook size I.  The finished throw measures 67 inches x 61inches including the border. Red Heart Christmas Wreath Throw

Christmas Throw Knitting Pattern is a very chunky pattern that is soft and ideal for Christmas cuddling. Pattern by Handy Little Me. Uses size US 50 circular needles. Finished blanket size 70 inches x 66 inches. Christmas Throw Knitting Pattern

Time to get your creative juices flowing! 

Are you sick of the hot summer days and long for some relaxing crafting time? Now is  a fantastic opportunity to get your crocheting and knitting queue ready for the holidays!

Knitting and crocheting should, in my opinion, be peaceful, uplifting, pleasurable, and cheery, as well as a creative outlet and an emotional refuge. It should not appear rushed, stressed, or like a job, especially as the Christmas season approaches. So turn on some Christmas music, get into the holiday spirit, and begin making!