What do you think?
Rate this book
Handknit Holidays: Knitting Year-Round for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Winter Solstice
For many people, the best part of the winter holidays is the anticipation: planning the perfect gifts, decorating the house, looking forward to seeing family and friends. Holidays can be particularly special for knitters, whose preparations often start months in advance and involve their own creations. In Handknit Holidays best-selling knitting author Melanie Falick presents an eclectic collection of more than 50 original gifts, decorations, and clothing pieces for Christmas, Hanukkah, and the winter solstice, providing year-round inspiration for knitters of all levels.
Created by top knitwear designers, the projects include colorful ornaments; funky and classic Christmas stockings; a wire-and-bead menorah; sparkly ribbon scarves; a poncho and matching dog sweater; and a range of super-quick projects for that last-minute holiday rush, from a Santa hat, to elf caps, to flower pins. Rounding out the volume are a few grand projects-an Aran tree skirt, a patchwork afghan, a lace shawl-destined to become family heirlooms, plus features on such topics as the origin of the Christmas stocking, the meaning of the winter solstice, knitting for charities, strategies for finishing holiday knitting (on schedule!), and even a delicious recipe for festive crescent cookies.
Beautifully photographed by Susan Pittard, Handknit Holidays is a creative celebration of the holiday season and a treasure for all knitters who seek to bring more of their own handwork-and artistry-into their daily lives and their holiday festivities.
Created by top knitwear designers, the projects include colorful ornaments; funky and classic Christmas stockings; a wire-and-bead menorah; sparkly ribbon scarves; a poncho and matching dog sweater; and a range of super-quick projects for that last-minute holiday rush, from a Santa hat, to elf caps, to flower pins. Rounding out the volume are a few grand projects-an Aran tree skirt, a patchwork afghan, a lace shawl-destined to become family heirlooms, plus features on such topics as the origin of the Christmas stocking, the meaning of the winter solstice, knitting for charities, strategies for finishing holiday knitting (on schedule!), and even a delicious recipe for festive crescent cookies.
Beautifully photographed by Susan Pittard, Handknit Holidays is a creative celebration of the holiday season and a treasure for all knitters who seek to bring more of their own handwork-and artistry-into their daily lives and their holiday festivities.
184 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2005
About the author
Melanie Falick
25 books13 followersMelanie Falick is the editorial director of STC Craft. She is a prolific and popular author of knitting books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 10, 2007
this is knitting porn. The chances I'll make anything in this book are slim but dear lord is it pretty.
(it also has a tree skirt pattern that suggests nearly $500 in yarn)
(it also has a tree skirt pattern that suggests nearly $500 in yarn)
December 23, 2017
Beautiful patterns and some unusual ones too. There is a cute Santa hat pattern in four sizes from baby to adult. I need to make some of those.
August 11, 2013
3.5 stars
This book features projects by 30 different well-known designers, each bringing their unique style to the different holiday-themed projects (mostly centered around Christmas and Winter Solstice). Along with the 50+ patterns, there are also stories about the origin of some holiday traditions from around the world, recipes, tips to help organize your holiday knitting, and even a list of charitable knitting opportunities.
Although all of the patterns have clear instructions, there are mistakes in some of the patterns and I would have liked to have seen more pictures of the items in the book. No problem though, since this book was first released in 2005 and therefore most of the problems have been worked out and all the pictures I need of the projects are available on Ravelry: click here to see projects.
Most of the projects in this book are for the intermediate knitter, but advanced beginners should do fine since there are so many projects to look through on Ravelry to help you through. There are schematics and charts where appropriate and as I mentioned earlier, the instructions are clear, but be sure to check on Ravelry for any known pattern errors. Many of the projects are big and will require some time, so plan ahead. This will be a go-to book for me when I need some gift-giving inspiration.
*Review copy courtesy of Open Road Integrated Media, provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
This book features projects by 30 different well-known designers, each bringing their unique style to the different holiday-themed projects (mostly centered around Christmas and Winter Solstice). Along with the 50+ patterns, there are also stories about the origin of some holiday traditions from around the world, recipes, tips to help organize your holiday knitting, and even a list of charitable knitting opportunities.
Although all of the patterns have clear instructions, there are mistakes in some of the patterns and I would have liked to have seen more pictures of the items in the book. No problem though, since this book was first released in 2005 and therefore most of the problems have been worked out and all the pictures I need of the projects are available on Ravelry: click here to see projects.
Most of the projects in this book are for the intermediate knitter, but advanced beginners should do fine since there are so many projects to look through on Ravelry to help you through. There are schematics and charts where appropriate and as I mentioned earlier, the instructions are clear, but be sure to check on Ravelry for any known pattern errors. Many of the projects are big and will require some time, so plan ahead. This will be a go-to book for me when I need some gift-giving inspiration.
*Review copy courtesy of Open Road Integrated Media, provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
January 17, 2010
This strikes me as something of a hit-and-miss pattern book. There are some genuinely lovely designs interspersed with things that just make me shake my head. Personally I just can't imagine spending hours knitting pink and lime-green I-cord for a garland when there are much prettier and less tedious ways of making one. And why are so many knitted dolls downright disturbing? However, it does have some great patterns in it. (just not enough for me to buy it.)
December 24, 2009
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful book. However, many of the patterns would be expensive to make and some of the instructions are difficult to follow.
October 3, 2019
I didn't like any pattern in this book. Not worth the money. Falick has designed heavy, overly ornamental items. They appear to be for the North Pole.
February 7, 2021
Mixed feelings on this one, so I'll split the difference at 3 stars. In other words, I'm glad I found it at my thrift shop/used book store, but I'm not sure I'd've paid full price for it.
The theme is a collection of winter holiday patterns - some decorations, some gift-giving. Most of the wearables are accessories and include some unisex and childrens options. I liked that it wasn't ALL obviously Christmas patterns. The menorah cable pattern, for example, was very pretty, and something unique that you don't see all the time. On the other hand, some of the patterns were very ordinary and uninspiring, like the basic knitted ornaments and garlands, or the table runner that's 4 1/2 feet of plain stockinette on size 3 needles. Or super expensive - like the tree skirt that uses 22 skeins of Manos handspun - that's easily a $400 tree skirt!! Like I said, mixed feelings.
I did like some of the patterns quite a lot, thought. The napkin tablecloth is fun and something unique. And I liked the knitted votive holders too. Wire knitting can be such a neat touch. The lace photo mats too - hadn't ever seen that one before. I liked the Snowy Triangle scarf and hat set. I liked the Sparkly Kiss cap (too cute!) but I'm curious how well the wire-edged ribbon works in a child's cap. I liked the lace and beading of Snegurochka's Party Hat, thought the fringe was a bit much. So, yeah, some of the patterns I'd be willing to make myself.
Compared to Falick's Weekend Knitting: 50 Unique Projects and Ideas, I'm not sure I liked the extras as much. There are still the little 'side notes' in amongst the patterns. Chatter on related topics, really. Weekend Knitting has lists of books and movies, recipes, etc. There are fewer here, it seems (without actually counting), and less interesting. Just my impression.
Overall, this is one that I'd recommend to check out at the library or (like me) take advantage if you luck into at a second hand option. The pattern assortment is just a bit eclectic and inconsistent to search out specifically for a personal collection
The theme is a collection of winter holiday patterns - some decorations, some gift-giving. Most of the wearables are accessories and include some unisex and childrens options. I liked that it wasn't ALL obviously Christmas patterns. The menorah cable pattern, for example, was very pretty, and something unique that you don't see all the time. On the other hand, some of the patterns were very ordinary and uninspiring, like the basic knitted ornaments and garlands, or the table runner that's 4 1/2 feet of plain stockinette on size 3 needles. Or super expensive - like the tree skirt that uses 22 skeins of Manos handspun - that's easily a $400 tree skirt!! Like I said, mixed feelings.
I did like some of the patterns quite a lot, thought. The napkin tablecloth is fun and something unique. And I liked the knitted votive holders too. Wire knitting can be such a neat touch. The lace photo mats too - hadn't ever seen that one before. I liked the Snowy Triangle scarf and hat set. I liked the Sparkly Kiss cap (too cute!) but I'm curious how well the wire-edged ribbon works in a child's cap. I liked the lace and beading of Snegurochka's Party Hat, thought the fringe was a bit much. So, yeah, some of the patterns I'd be willing to make myself.
Compared to Falick's Weekend Knitting: 50 Unique Projects and Ideas, I'm not sure I liked the extras as much. There are still the little 'side notes' in amongst the patterns. Chatter on related topics, really. Weekend Knitting has lists of books and movies, recipes, etc. There are fewer here, it seems (without actually counting), and less interesting. Just my impression.
Overall, this is one that I'd recommend to check out at the library or (like me) take advantage if you luck into at a second hand option. The pattern assortment is just a bit eclectic and inconsistent to search out specifically for a personal collection
July 5, 2026
I'm reading this lovely book 20+ years after publications, and despite not flagging a single piece that I'd like to knit, I think it's a great book! There's a broad range of items from gloves to a table runner, an afghan to socks, with an equally diverse range of yarn gauge and techniques. So, something for everyone one would hope? Good photography but I can't speak to the accuracy of the pattern writing.
August 28, 2023
There were a couple fun and unique pieces in here. But it felt like there were a lot more I didn’t care for than I did.
June 25, 2025
Hand knit holidays
Impressive knitting pattern book to encourage us to create more gifts to give. So many I want to do for family this year.
Impressive knitting pattern book to encourage us to create more gifts to give. So many I want to do for family this year.
August 16, 2013
Open Road Integrated Media generously donated this book for review.
First Impressions: This book is so pretty! I want to live in each of the pictures in this book. Seriously, everything is so shiny, romantic, and holiday-like. I want to knit everything in this book.
The Details: This book has over 50 patterns! Patterns include ornaments, pillows, hats, scarves, mittens and gloves, socks, sweaters, shawls, and bags. It is important to note that although the book has several patterns for the home, children, and women, the patterns for men are lacking. There are no men-only patterns. Some of the clothing patterns are large enough for men, but this book is definitely more skewed towards women's patterns.
Although I love this book so much (I bought the hardcover edition years ago), I have reservations about the e-book. First, my galley copy was a bit "funny." Specifically, knitting charts were cut off. This may be a problem with the galley copy; however, if you purchase the book, check to make sure that you can see all the charts. Second, all of the yarns listed are those that were listed in the original printing. Some of these yarns may not be available anymore. This isn't a huge issue to me; however, because it is hard to keep the yarns in book up-to-date. Finally, the galley copy of the e-book that I received had errors in it that were corrected by the 3rd printing of the book. This is unacceptable. If you purchase this e-book, please look for errata online before knitting any of the patterns. In fact, I would rate the e-book version of this book as 2/5 stars.
Final Impressions: This is a beautiful book. The patterns are clever, fun, and amazing. This book also does a decent job of showcasing patterns for Christmas, Hanukkah, and the Winter Solstice. At the same, the e-book has some serious problems.
First Impressions: This book is so pretty! I want to live in each of the pictures in this book. Seriously, everything is so shiny, romantic, and holiday-like. I want to knit everything in this book.
The Details: This book has over 50 patterns! Patterns include ornaments, pillows, hats, scarves, mittens and gloves, socks, sweaters, shawls, and bags. It is important to note that although the book has several patterns for the home, children, and women, the patterns for men are lacking. There are no men-only patterns. Some of the clothing patterns are large enough for men, but this book is definitely more skewed towards women's patterns.
Although I love this book so much (I bought the hardcover edition years ago), I have reservations about the e-book. First, my galley copy was a bit "funny." Specifically, knitting charts were cut off. This may be a problem with the galley copy; however, if you purchase the book, check to make sure that you can see all the charts. Second, all of the yarns listed are those that were listed in the original printing. Some of these yarns may not be available anymore. This isn't a huge issue to me; however, because it is hard to keep the yarns in book up-to-date. Finally, the galley copy of the e-book that I received had errors in it that were corrected by the 3rd printing of the book. This is unacceptable. If you purchase this e-book, please look for errata online before knitting any of the patterns. In fact, I would rate the e-book version of this book as 2/5 stars.
Final Impressions: This is a beautiful book. The patterns are clever, fun, and amazing. This book also does a decent job of showcasing patterns for Christmas, Hanukkah, and the Winter Solstice. At the same, the e-book has some serious problems.
August 25, 2013
Handknit Holidays Knitting Year-Round for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Winter Solstice by Melanie Falick
30 different artists have contributed to this book. The book sounds like one I am hoping will lead me to this upcoming season of cold weather. Starts out with tree ornaments, then stockings which some are charted and written out in rows as they have designs built in.
Household items are most exquisite! My favorite is the Aran designs, Love doing cable work. There is also the history of stockings included.
Table runners offer a lot of different designs that could also be used in a full size afghan.
Second best would be the stained glass scarf-I have done this method before and the right colors give this a striking effect.
There are so many treasures in this book to make and give away as gifts or keep for yourself. As an added bonus there is a recipe for Norwegian rich nut cookies.
Patterns for everybody in the family, the house and even the dog. Also charity work is mentioned with information. Packaging ideas that help you adorn a gift.
Love this book because there is such a large selection of things to make and in plenty of time before the holidays. Index, explanation of abbreviations and terms used in the book and methods are included.
I received this book from Net Galley via Open Road in exchange for my honest review.
30 different artists have contributed to this book. The book sounds like one I am hoping will lead me to this upcoming season of cold weather. Starts out with tree ornaments, then stockings which some are charted and written out in rows as they have designs built in.
Household items are most exquisite! My favorite is the Aran designs, Love doing cable work. There is also the history of stockings included.
Table runners offer a lot of different designs that could also be used in a full size afghan.
Second best would be the stained glass scarf-I have done this method before and the right colors give this a striking effect.
There are so many treasures in this book to make and give away as gifts or keep for yourself. As an added bonus there is a recipe for Norwegian rich nut cookies.
Patterns for everybody in the family, the house and even the dog. Also charity work is mentioned with information. Packaging ideas that help you adorn a gift.
Love this book because there is such a large selection of things to make and in plenty of time before the holidays. Index, explanation of abbreviations and terms used in the book and methods are included.
I received this book from Net Galley via Open Road in exchange for my honest review.
June 1, 2009
I didn't expect to like this book because I really don't like the patterns on the front or the back much. But I was pleasantly surprised. There are a number of interesting patterns for holiday decorations for not just Christmas but Hannukah and Solstice as well. I particularly like a lace mat for inside a picture frame, a Hershey's kiss hatt, a pattern that uses lace to connect linen napkins into a large holiday table covering, and a fir-tree covered gift bag.
The book assumes basic knitting skills and the ability to read a pattern and chart. It doesn't waste time explaining how to do techniques other than those a little unusual. So it would be best for an advanced beginner or above knitter.
The book assumes basic knitting skills and the ability to read a pattern and chart. It doesn't waste time explaining how to do techniques other than those a little unusual. So it would be best for an advanced beginner or above knitter.
July 10, 2007
One reviewer called this knitting porn and it really kind of is. Krissy gave this to me for my birthday and all I can really make from it so far are the sachets, but maybe someday it will prove more useful. (The likelihood that it will be the $500 Aran wool tree skirt is exceedingly unlikely, but hey, there's a really cute shirt in there.) Meanwhile, the pictures are fantastic and a girl can dream. And take classes to make the dreams a reality. *g*
Back to the practical knit dishcloths.
Back to the practical knit dishcloths.
October 8, 2007
Sinful pleasure. I add my name to all before who have called it "knitting porn." Beautiful people in beautiful knitted projects living in what appear to be beautiful houses. It'd be sick if I weren't, sadly, in the middle of the bourgeouis target audience and can't step far enough way to be disdainful. The majority of these projects are way beyond my capability as a knitter, but I want to try the legwarmers someday.
August 27, 2013
Many of these patterns are lovely! I wish I had the time/energy/room/money to make quite a few of the items in here. I think if I had more room to decorate for Winter holidays and if I weren't so busy with 20,000 other projects, I would definitely add these to my list of things to do in the near future. *grin* Luckily, it is already in our library catalog if I decide I really do need that beautiful Aran tree skirt or stocking :-)
January 23, 2026
Someone involved with this book adores the color pea green. Several patterns are made with yarns in this shade, no matter how it looks (pea green and chocolate brown for a striped scarf is a choice) and even the end papers are this color. This really takes away from the patterns. And the patterns are uneven--for every interesting cable or lace pattern, there's one with flouncy potato chip ruffles or fun fur.
November 16, 2007
This is definatly knitters porn, The book is gorgeous, the patterns amazing. The problem... They are either way too ambitious in terms of both, time and money, or are just Way to hard. Still it's lovely to look at. The over the knee socks in white with cables up the back are my favorite page to look at and dream!
January 23, 2008
After checking this book out from the library far too many times I finally added it to my bookshelf. I love that this book covers many holidays so I have a place to go for a gift for any of my friends. The pictures are inspiring and the patterns are all must knits! Great gift ideas for the whole year.
June 13, 2009
This is gorgeous to look at. I don't know that I'd ever knit anything from it, but it's very pretty. There are some really pretty beaded gloves that are very tempting, but I might just steal the idea and bead some store-bought ones. I know, that's not what a true knitter should say, but there was nothing particularly special about the gloves themselves without the beading.
July 21, 2009
There are some really wonderful patterns in this book. The Swedish Heart-Warmer shawl is stunning and I adore Hannah's Tablecloth. What an awesome use for my collection of linen hankerchiefs. I can't wait to make it. There were some other really wonderful patterns as well from some great designers. Excellent book. I really relate to the theme of knitting for Christmas all year long. =)
November 13, 2010
There were some cute patterns in this book. I'm glad I looked at it, but it's not one that I would buy.
I found that, for myself, the ideas were inspirational, but I could do the same thing without the patterns just by seeing the photos. And I already knit for Christmas year-round, so that's not a new idea for me.
I found that, for myself, the ideas were inspirational, but I could do the same thing without the patterns just by seeing the photos. And I already knit for Christmas year-round, so that's not a new idea for me.
August 15, 2013
I am in love with the patterns in this book. I just need to make sure my stash of yarn is up to all the lovely projects listed. The pictures are lovely and the charts are so easy to read. If you are looking for a winter holiday project book for knitting check this one out.
Received copy to review from NetGalley
http://felelith.blogspot.com/2013/08/...
Received copy to review from NetGalley
http://felelith.blogspot.com/2013/08/...
February 12, 2008
This has a lot of very beautiful patterns for all types of winter holiday things. I haven't tried anything from this book yet. A lot of the projects seem rather advanced for me (and rather expensive too) but one day.....
December 23, 2008
Beautiful patterns compiled by the awesome Melanie Falick. A real treat to look at. Fave patterns to make for next Christmakkah: the intensely color-saturated Kitty & Pup, and a beautiful cream colored Menorah pillow. Good stuff, but start knitting now for next winter!
November 28, 2014
Orniments, garland, stockings, candle votive, tablecloth and runners, pillows, dolls, tree skirts; clothes - hats, mittens, scarved, leg warmers. socks, slippers, blankets, sweaters, shrugs, shawls, bags and more.
Nothing I want to make, thus only 2 stars.
Nothing I want to make, thus only 2 stars.
March 21, 2007
Lovely patterns
December 20, 2007
beautiful pictures and a decent handful of fun patterns, including knit ballerina slippers (!?)
June 12, 2008
A few excellent pieces mixed in with a number of duds.
June 20, 2008
This is a nice book but I am not likely to make any of the patterns.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews