Knitting with needles is usually one of the first handwork crafts
taken on around age 7. These are an example of some handmade wooden knitting needles that the kids
made when they first started out. Dowels were cut to the desired length of the needle. Using a piece of sandpaper (not
too rough), the ends were sanded until a point appeared. Then the entire needle was sanded very lightly, and
a cap was added (glued) on. Here we have some plain wooden caps, and one pair of needles with caps that were made using Sculpty
(clay modeling compound) and baked. Lastly, the needles were polished with some kind of oil, then buffed. We
have used both plain beeswax, and also olive oil (our favorite) for the finish. All of the materials we used were
easily found in a local craft store.
This is a knitted case for a soprano recorder. Typically, it is the first
knitting project that a child might take on, usually around age 7. Both of our children knitted a case for their own
recorder at home, each at that same age. In our case, we found it helpful to do practice squares of knitting first
before embarking on the main project.
This is an example of some simple knitting done around age 8.
This piece was done around Easter time, and was placed on our family nature table. While basic knitting is learned
early on, knitting projects may continue on throughout all of the years, with the level of challenge increasing as one goes.
Our children have also created simple knitting projects like this one to give to their friends as gifts.
Between ages 8-10 is the perfect time to learn how to knit a winter
hat. Just as one comes to understand how different people shelter and clothe themselves, the hat serves as "a shelter
for the soul" on a certain level. The process of making the hat includes picking the right color of yarn for the
job, and paying attention to detail.
Knitting continues with a variety of projects, such as this lovely scarf. Socks, mittens, and other items
are made.
This is an example of a felted wall hanging made as part of a workshop offered on a nearby farm. First,
the wool was washed and carded. The felting happens when warm soapy water makes the fibers open up and get
tangled and locked in together. This wall hanging is called "The Four Seasons". It was done when the kids were much
younger, and still hangs in our house today.
A first solid stab at embroidery, as well as a fine Mother's Day gift!