As Christmas is quickly approaching the not so organised of us are frantically looking for for some quick and easy Christmas gifts. We knitters and crocheters rely on our crafting skills this time of year to whip up quick and thoughtful gifts for our friends and loved ones. So with this idea in mind I have put together a series of blog posts for some quick gifting inspiration.

In this post I take a look at cowls or snoods. These quick little gifts are an easy beginner project and make a perfect little hug around your neck. Often only taking one skein they are great go to projects when time is not on your side.

Honey Cowl by Antonia Shankland. This has to be the most popular cowl out there and for good reason. A simple slip stitch pattern that is written in two different lengths and can make the most out of an entire skein of yarn, whats better! Try this in the extra special speckles of Hedgehog Fibres Merino DK for a fun and funky accessory.

Drop Stitch Cowl by Abi Gregorio. If time is really against you then reach for the chunky yarn and needles. This Drop Stitch Cowl is simple but with a pleasing amount of detail. For chunky softness choose Stitch & Story the Chunky Wool.

Garter Snake Cowl by Lavanya Patricella. If you have more time on your hands then this stunner of a design is for you. A playful combination of brioche and garter stitch creates a strong graphic and geometric look. Choose two contrasting colours in either Black Elephant Merino Singles or Hedgehog Fibres Skinny Singles.

The Snuggle is Real by Maxim Cyr. This one sure looks snuggly. A cosy two tone pattern around the outside and then a clever knit lining. The lining is knit holding two strands of a mohair lace to create a warm cosy and soft fabric next to your skin. This would be a gift treasured by anyone you made it for. Try Fyberspates Merino DK or John Arbon Knit by Numbers DK for the MC and CC and then Fyberspates Cumulus for the soft contrast interior.

Dotty by Elena Fedotova. This reversible cowl is crocheted in the round in a double-layer stitch pattern giving you a flexible two colour accessory for matching with a favourite outfit. The pattern is fun and engaging and is great for pairing speckles and solid. Try a fun combination of jazzy Garnsurr Søkke Merino.