We know that a lot of knitters want to give hand-knit gifts at this time of year. But for some of us, it can be a race to the finish to get everything done in time. So now's a good time for us to share a couple of fast, easy, fun (and colorful, of course!) projects you can finish in plenty of time. We've made a hat and scarf that can coordinate or work separately. They're worked in Koigu Bulky in one semi-solid and one variegated in garter stitch for ease and simplicity. The scarf is knitted width-wise and then one stitch at either end is dropped down to the cast-on edge. Finally, you use a crochet hook and the other color to chain up the dropped bars. The hat is made up of a sideways band knitted in garter stitch to stretch around the head. You work the same dropped stitch technique afterwards to make chains around  the band. Then stitches are picked up to work the top of the hat. The hat is seamed up the back with slip stitches. Sometimes it's the smart and fun thing to do to make simple presents that can be used or worn in the same season you start them!......read more