Knitting Inspiration: January’s Best Projects and Yarn Finds
Discover what’s been on (and off!) my needles in this January Knitting Update! From a cozy finished object to five exciting WIPs—including my wedding dress—plus some irresistible yarn acquisitions and my most-worn knits, this update has something for every knitter. Whether you’re here for inspiration, tips, or just to enjoy the journey, grab a cup of tea and let’s dive into the warmth of winter knitting.
This post is all about my January knitting update!
January Knitting Update: Finished Objects, WIPs, and My Most Worn Knits
January has been a month of chilly weather and cozy projects, and I can’t wait to share everything that’s been on (and off) my needles. In this post, I’ll talk about a finished object that’s been a lifesaver in Bergen’s rainy weather, five works in progress (including a brand-new cast-on), some exciting yarn acquisitions, and the pieces I’ve been reaching for the most this month. Grab your favorite warm beverage, and let’s dive in!
Finished Objects (Fo)
My José Hood
This month, I finished my José Hood, a project that’s both practical and stylish. Designed by Kristen Nørgaar of NORgardknitters, this hood-scarf hybrid is perfect for keeping warm on cold, wet days.
I used two yarns for this project: Isager Alpaca 1 (shade E7) and Isager Eco Baby (shade E8s). The Alpaca 1 is a fine, two-ply yarn made from 100% alpaca, while Eco Baby is a blend of 68% baby alpaca and 32% organic Pima cotton. Together, they create a soft, luxurious fabric that’s lightweight yet warm. I knit the hood on 4.5 mm needles (down from the pattern’s recommended 5 mm, as I tend to knit loosely).
The construction was fascinating—starting with the top, picking up stitches along the edges, and transitioning from a hood to a scarf through clever shaping and I-cord edging. As someone who rarely wears hats, the José Hood is a great alternative. It covers my ears and keeps my neck warm, and it looks beautiful even when the hood is down.
Works in Progress (WIPs)
Klippesjerf (Cut-It Scarf)
The Klippesjerf by Marthe of LageLab has been one of my most exciting WIPs this month. This scarf is constructed in a playful and unconventional way. After knitting an I-cord, I picked up stitches along its edge and knit outward on one side. Once both sides are complete, the final step is to unravel part of the scarf and cut it open, transforming a tube into a flat scarf.
For this project, I’m using Rauma Finull in four colors: 4886, 434, 4206, and 4135. I’m knitting on 4.5 mm needles and plan to lightly felt the finished piece to enhance its warmth and texture.
Imro Dress
My Imro Dress is a project that’s both mathematical and creative. I started with a vest pattern as a base and have been improvising from there, altering the structure and gauge to suit my vision. The plan is to knit the top as a vest, then pick up stitches at the bottom edge and calculate the increases needed to fit my hips. I’ll knit downward until I run out of yarn.
I’m using yarns from my stash: Isager Highland, Isager Tweed (both in the shade Wine), and Garnsurr Mohair. Each of these yarns brings a unique texture and meaning to the project, especially the Garnsurr Mohair, which was hand-dyed by a Norwegian indie dyer collective.
September Jacket
The September Jacket by PetitKnit is another favorite on my needles. While the original pattern calls for one strand of Sunday and two strands of Tynn Silk Mohair, I’ve chosen to use double Mondim in the colorway San Tokki by La Bien Aimée. This hand-dyed yarn has a beautiful gray base with brown speckles, and its tightly spun texture creates stunning stitch definition.
I’m knitting the jacket top-down in brioche stitch, and the fabric feels sturdy yet soft. Although I had to supplement with additional skeins, I’m confident the blending will work beautifully.
Wedding Dress
Perhaps the most ambitious project on my needles is my wedding dress! Inspired by Veronika Lindberg’s stunning knit gown, I’ve decided to create my own design. The skirt features lace motifs from Camilla Vad’s Magnolia pattern and Lene Holme Samsøe’s Dahlia leaves, while the bodice will have contiguous shoulders and a lace panel.
For this project, I’m using Sandnes Sunday in pure white. The wool’s lightweight and airy quality makes it ideal for a lace dress. It’s a labor of love, but I’m excited to bring my vision to life.
Dori Vest
Finally, I cast on the Dori Vest by Rauma, a short, close-fitting vest in half-brioche stitch with side ties. I’m knitting it in Rauma’s Fivel, a soft and airy 2-ply yarn made from Norwegian lambswool. The deep navy color (shade 09) adds a classic touch, and I can’t wait to style it over a crisp shirt and trousers.
Acquisitions
This month, I made a few exciting yarn purchases:
Yarn for Dori Vest: I picked up Rauma Fivel at a local yarn shop in Bergen, Strikk i Steinkjelleren. It’s a lovely store featuring yarns from Rauma and Isager, and the shop’s charming location makes it a must-visit.
Yarn for September Jacket: I supplemented my Mondim yarn from La Bien Aimée for the September Jacket. While there is a slight variation in dye lots, I plan to blend them strategically.
Some Happy Mohair: I couldn’t resist adding a skein of Aimée’s Peaches & Dreams, a custom-dyed mohair silk blend by The Wandering Flock. Its peachy rainbow hues are simply magical!
January Knits in Use
Finally, let’s talk about the pieces I’ve been wearing the most this month:
My José Hood: A lifesaver during Bergen’s cold, wet January, keeping my neck warm and my hair dry.
Ingrid Sweater: Knit in Hillesvåg’s Vidde, this textured sweater is my go-to for both warmth and versatility.
Nordic Mix Sweater: A cozy colorwork sweater that’s perfect for frosty days, made with Sandnes Double Sunday and Rauma Fivel.
Conclusion
January has been a month full of knitting adventures, from finishing the José Hood to making progress on five exciting WIPs. I hope you enjoyed this update and found some inspiration for your own projects. What have you been working on this month? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!