With most of the winter behind us, it’s tempting to spring forward with the clock and begin work on summer sweaters. Before doing this, however, take a moment to think about the possibilities for spring holiday adornment. Why not use your knitting abilities to add some cheer as we move through mud season in the Northern Hemisphere, or early fall south of the Tropic of Capricorn?

We begin the season with St. Patrick’s Day, a minor holiday that gives everyone the chance to enjoy being Irish for a little while. We’re told to wear green, and what better place than at the throat, in a cowl that protects from wind and damp? Using bulky yarn means that it’s possible to have something finished for the holiday itself, but if you prefer finer yarn you can soften the green into something more appropriate for early spring.

Easter is traditionally a Christian holiday, but every tradition celebrates the equinox in some way. Pastels match the flower and leaf colors that now appear. Perhaps a shrug to wear with a fifties style dress? Or a light wrap to drape over one’s legs or shoulders during those early picnics? Whether you prefer navy, a paler shade of blue, or some other spring color, these quick knits will add just enough warmth while the temperatures slowly rise.

The later months of May and June present a variety of dress-up opportunities: Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, and weddings. It’s possible to knit a pretty shawl, vest, or short sleeve sweater in the next few weeks – why not look for a pattern on Ravelry? Or search for a particular pattern or emblem? If you’re a stranded knitter, you’ll find charts for everything: shamrocks, Easter eggs, flowers, rabbits, wedding rings, or…..? The same goes for mosaic and lace stitch patterns, although the motifs tend to be more abstract. Perhaps a Greek key pattern or lace insert could dress up the leg of an otherwise simple pair of socks, or baby animals chase each other around the brim of a hat. Accessories can be worn with a variety of outfits and are small enough to be completed in a few weeks. Wouldn’t it be fun to sport a new pair of socks with those ankle-length jeans you’ve been waiting to wear?

Knitting is often seen as a cold-weather activity, but the advent of blended fibers and the judicious use of open stitches allow us to wear our creations all year round. Especially if you’ve been focused on full-length sweaters for the last few months, this is a great time to take a break and celebrate the changing seasons with a smaller project themed to the weather. Aren’t you ready to knit something small for yourself?