off the needles: cable hat and mitts

Now we're stuck into January I can share some of my Christmas knitting triumphs with you. Yes, triumphs. For once I actually challenged myself and attempted some new things, namely cables. I'd practiced cabling before but never made anything substantial with them. A couple of ladies at work had made these mitts and, after being reassured they were quick and simple, I gave them a go. 

Ta da! Pumpkin mitts for sweet friend. I'm gaga for this yarn by the way - it's Grace silk and wool by Louisa Harding. I made two pairs of these and might just have to treat myself to some, too. 

And the piece de resistance? The mock cable hat I made for my sister. I used two shades of Louisa Harding's butter-soft Thistle yarn. I knitted an odd mash up of the medium and large sizes, due to a lack of yarn. Really, I could have done with a third ball. The hat ended up wide enough but a little short. It did grow a little when I blocked it though. 

I have to say, cables look impressive but can be far easier than you imagine. If you haven't taken the plunge yet, go for it!