Knitting Patterns for Housewarming Gifts
Consider knitting housewarming gifts for that added personal touch.
Too often when we think of knitting for other people, we think of clothing -- hats, gloves, scarves -- or possibly, a blanket. But I was thinking recently how I'm never sure what to bring with me when I visit a friend's house for the first time. Then, the epiphany! Knitted housewarming gifts.
I've picked several wonderful patterns for different housewarming gift ideas. Pick from a bottle holder, place mats, towels, and even bowls. Or knit all of the projects and give them together in a pretty basket or gift bag. Your host or hostess will flush with enjoyment over this thoughtful gift, and most likely appreciate all of your time and skill that went into it.
Wine bottle holder
From my experience, bottles of wine are a favorite housewarming gift. If your host is a wine lover, bring a bottle or two of your favorite or his. Make it extra special and present the bottles wrapped in a felted wine bottle holder. I like this one for its heightened fun factor -- the pattern is colorful, and noticeable.
Guest towels
A set of guest towels is an old standby housewarming present, but knitting homemade ones give special meaning to the gift. I like this pattern for its absorbent waffle-weave texture, as well as its simplicity. If you know your friend's color scheme, make them in one or two of those colors. Package them folded in a pretty box in tissue paper or a basket along with your favorite hand soap.
Place mats
Try to find out your friend's kitchen colors or dish pattern before you make them a set of place mats, as they likely won't use them if they don't match something. I like two different patterns for place mats. This one is very durable and relatively easy to knit. This one is a little more delicate and would look lovely with meals outside on the patio. (Note: you need to download this latter pattern for free from Knit Picks). To gift place mats, knit a set of four or eight and roll them up. Tie them with a ribbon or slide a napkin ring on each, and give them in a bread basket.
Nesting bowls
Definitely a one-of-a-kind housewarming gift, this set of felted nesting bowls can be used on the kitchen table, or various other places around the house. Adventurous knitters can add some handmade knit food to the largest bowl and give that as a fun centerpiece. Smaller bowls will serve as handy catch alls in the office, bedroom, bathroom -- just about any room in the house.
You never know when somebody will invite you to their house for a casual lunch or a dinner party. Knitting these housewarming presents ahead of time will guarantee you always have some personalized gifts on hand.