Magical Knits from the North

Hand-crafted clothing and hand-knitted gifts have a magic of their own. This collection of poems, spells and 19 knitting patterns for clothes and accessories is designed to connect the reader with their deeper selves so they can impart some of that magic into the finished makes.

The 19 knitting patterns in this book are accompanied by poems – in the form of charms or spells – intended to call forth the power that resides in the reader and knitter and pass it on to the wearer of the finished garment. These poems are inspired Finnish folk music – in the past the seers and healers were often referred to as singers - these traditional rhymes and spells can be used to focus the mind and enhance a state of mindfulness.

The authors are Meri Mort, a yoga teacher and writer, and Katinka Sarjanoja, a knitwear designer, and together they have created a unique collection of knitting patterns based on the themes and imagery of mysticism and folklore.

As knitters know, knitting can be a meditative experience when the knitter’s mind is firmly focused on the tips of the needles and the stitches they are making. When you are knitting a gift for a friend or family member, your thoughts often dwell on the recipient and some of those thoughts also work their way into the knitting itself. Memories of the paths you have travelled together are knitted into a pair of much-loved socks, while a pair of gloves made as a gift absorb your appreciation of the loving hands they are going to keep warm. A scarf knitted for a parent conveys gratitude for the safe, nurturing childhood they gave you as you, in turn, protect them from the cold.

Magic can also be knitted into clothes you will make for yourself. The stitches of the snake socks might be infused with courage in the face of change, knitting the grief socks might be a way to engaging with the grieving process, or knitting the fun women’s yoga socks might help you explore your relationship with joy.

There are many ways to use this book so that it resonates with you and your knitting. Embrace the magic.