Don't forget the blokes

Blokes often get the short end of the stick in the handmade line. I know there isn't much I can make for my bloke that he appreciates. Not much, but there are two things he loves - hand knitted socks and hats. Can't get enough of the socks in particular. And that works for me because socks and hats don't use much yarn or take too long to make.

Perhaps if you are a knitter you could think about knitting some bloke size socks, or a nice blokey beanie to donate in preparation for the colder weather later in the year? If you aren't an experienced knitter - hats are very quick and easy (especially if knitted in a bulky yarn). Ask at a local yarn store and I am sure someone could help you get going.

There are a tonne of free patterns and tutorials on the internet to try - here's a couple to get you going, but don't hesitate to search further!

Hats:
http://www.styledbykristin.com/rugged-ribbed-knit-hat-pattern/
http://www.woollywormhead.com/free-patterns/
http://www.knitting-and.com/knitting/patterns/hats/london-beanie.htm
http://www.redlipstick.net/knit/martext.html

Socks:
http://www.knitlist.com/97gift/menssocks.htm
http://knitsix.wordpress.com/2007/09/14/manly-socks-free-pattern/
http://www.purlbee.com/socks-for-giving/
http://www.violinjodie.com/blog/globe-trotter-socks/

Or email me if you know of another really good, free pattern we could recommend (soozs[dot]com[at]gmail[dot]com)