Five tips on taking up knitting to create gifts or ornaments for Christmas

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STAY busy on autumn nights by knitting your own ornaments or getting a headstart on future gifts. Start these simple projects now and you will be ready to hand out fabulous homemade treasures by December. THINK BIG: A cosy scarf makes a wonderful present and is an ideal starter project for new knitters.

To make it easier — and cheaper — try using chunky yarn or wool which knits up quickly. You can currently get 30 per cent off Debbie Bliss Chunky cashmere and merino wool spools at lovecrafts.com.



LITTLE IDEAS: A handmade tree ornament or woollen hanging decoration is simple and cost-effective to make because it requires minimal yarn. READ MORE SUN SAVERS To get a free knitting pattern for a heart-shaped ornament, just sign yourself up at knittingbypost.com.

You can also use leftover yarn to knit around a hair band and create a cute scrunchie. COSY COVER-UP: If you are new to knitting, try making blanket squares. Use up any leftover yarn and have fun experimenting with different colours and patterns.

Knit a few squares and stitch them together to make a baby blanket for a future arrival, or turn it into a family project — have each member knit a square, then sew it all together to create a sentimental keepsake blanket for someone special. STOCKING SAVER: For the more experienced knitters among you, why buy stockings when you can make your own? Most read in Money Save on materials with the Monogram Stocking Christmas Knitting Kit (£19.99) from woolcouturecompany.

com. It includes a personalised stocking pattern, alphabet chart for the monogram, tapestry needle and three 100g balls of Beautifully Basic Yarn — and you can pick your own yarn colours. GO WILD: Looking for more of a challenge? Head to hobbycraft.

co.uk for a fantastic range of free patterns and step-by-step guides. You can try your hand at crocheting a pumpkin, knitting a toadstool handbag, or even making macramé baubles.

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