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If you prefer the traditional Christmas tree look but want to make your own decorations you might like these patterns for knitted Christmas baubles which have a distinctive classical and spherical shape to them. People always seem to notice when ornaments are handmade as they are distinctive and not a carbon copy of what many of us purchase from the big stores. For this reason, I think they are worth making the effort to make up - as well as the fun you get doing it. If you love to knit then there is nothing better than having a small project like this to do while watching tv or listening to music.
I have made the selections that I have because they provide a way to practice a few slightly more advanced knitting skills such as Fair Isle and stranded colourwork, knitting in the round, German short rows, grafting and provisional casting on techniques.
I liked the first festive ball because it has some Fair Isle colourwork in it. If you have not done colourwork before this is an ideal project to learn how to do it as it's a small project to tackle. It is also done in the round on double pointed needles -again another opportunity to broaden your skills if you have not done knitting in the round yet.
The Fair Isle work is repeated four times in the design. You get both written instructions and a chart with a key to follow it. The designer Sarah Berry has used an local yarn from the Isle of Skye called Coara 4 ply fingering. However other yarns you already have could be used the only thing to remember is that the size will change.
I have included the book by well-known knitters Arne and Carlos as they have many beautiful Nordic designs in them which are just begging to be made up.
The third design I have chosen has a simple appealing look that has been created by using the stranded knitting technique. Again this is a chance to learn another form of colourwork if you have not yet done it. This one is done in double knitting yarn. Its a good way to use up leftover bits of yarn.
The shiny effect in the fourth design is achieved by using a metallic yarn like the Anchor Artiste Metallic range They are worked sideways. This design is free to use.
The fifth design gives a mix of 7 different versions that you can make.
Still need more inspiration and ideas on festive knitting projects? Read these posts in the Christmas category
Knitted Christmas Bauble Pattern with Fair Isle Design
Knitting Pattern for Christmas Baubles Pattern with Sheep Design
Quick Christmas Bauble Pattern using Stranded Knitting Skills
Free Knitting Pattern Christmas Baubles with Metallic Look
7 Mixed Design Knitted Christmas Ball Patterns