We are delighted to present our knitting patterns for your enjoyment and appreciation.Through these knitting patterns, we aim to share Afghanistan's artistic legacy. Moreover, we hope that working the patterns brings us a little closer together in spirit with the Afghan people.

Your purchase of our patterns supports the work of afghans for Afghans and the Afghan Widows Education Center's literacy classes for widows and other women in Kabul.

Our Fulled Afghan Carpet Bag pattern was inspired by pile carpet bags, typically used in the region to carry grain, produce, and other goods on the backs of animals, most often donkeys and horses. The central motif on this design appears as a medallion or flower, but patterns vary greatly among tribal weavers. The deep colors are reminiscent of Baluch bags. Using 5 colors of Black Water Abbey wool yarn, our Fulled Afghan Carpet Bag is knit in the round on circular needles. The bag features a long strap with decorative buttons. The process of fulling is similar to felting, but the resulting fabric is not as dense. Black Water Abbey yarn and buttons (plus pattern) may be purchased as a kit here. Black Water Abbey will generously donate a percentage of the sale to afghans for Afghans. When fulled, the bag measures about 15" high and 11" wide. Results will vary somewhat because of variables in the fulling process.

Our Afghan Tulip Socks pattern was inspired by an authentic knitted Afghan vest emblazoned with tulips around the mid-section and at the shoulders. Tulips originated in Central Asia and were commercialized by Dutch traders. Using 4 colors of yarn, our Afghan Tulip Socks feature a cuff with a picot edge and stylized flower motifs. Knit from the cuff down, the pattern initially uses US size 3 needles to accommodate the calf, and then switches to US size 2 to yield a firmer fabric and better fit over the ankle. This pattern is for the seasoned knitter. Let Hand Jive Knits know you'd like to purchase the corresponding yarn, and Darlene will donate a percentage of sales to afghans for Afghans.

Our Afghan Mittens pattern derives from authentic gloves knitted in the Hazara tradition. For intermediate knitters, the pattern features four small charts, raised bands knit with two strands, and a short lace pattern. The pattern was documented by Judy Sours of Ferncrest Farms, which seasonally produces mohair-and-wool sportweight yarn -- visit here to inquire about their yarn. Or, substitute the sportweight yarn of your choice. The mittens use about 1-1/2 ounces of each of three colors (about 300 yards total) that may be carried on bobbins or knit in. Written for a women's medium size, gauge is 7 stitches, 9 rows = 1", using U.S. size 2 double-point needles. The palm measures about 8" around. Go up one needle size to make larger mittens for a woman or man.

Our pattern for Afghan socks is based on a traditional Ghazni pair. These thick, warm socks -- little booties -- with an all-over diamond pattern are usually knitted without relying on written directions or charts with whatever materials are available. We recommend worsted or heavy worsted-weight yarn in wool or a wool blend in two contrasting colors. One hundred yards of each color. Set of 5 double-point needles in U.S. size 6 or the size needed to achieve the gauge of 6 stitches = 1".

Starting with a two-color cast on in the figure-8 method, the socks are knit from the toe up. A wide band adorns the perimeter of the foot and continues up the sides of the legs. The sock's foot-length is 6.5 inches from toe to heel. Using larger needles, the pattern with chart may be easily modified for the adult foot.

Our sweater-jacket was inspired by a photo of the Masjid-i-Jami -- or Friday Mosque -- at Herat, Afghanistan, taken by Luke Powell. The motifs and colors evoke the mosaic art that adorns this 800-year-old structure and place of worship. Our knitting pattern is a tribute to the region's rich cultural heritage and the Afghan people.

As in the time-consuming handwork employed in the traditional hand-knotted Afghan wool rug, this sweater design uses fine wool yarn, detailed patternwork, and color changes that require time and care. Experienced knitters will enjoy the challenge.

Suitable for girl or boy. Pattern includes 3 sizes: 12-18 months, 2 -3 years, 4 years, with finished chests of 24", 26", and 28". Our sweater was made with 5 colors of Shetland yarn. Substitute any fingering-weight yarn that knits to a gauge of 7 stitches, 7.5 rows = 1". Straight and double-point needles U.S. size 3, or size to obtain gauge. The sweater closes with a zipper.

Our knitting pattern for an Afghan Vest for Men derives from a popular garment in Afghanistan. Bold and graphic motifs and garter-stitch armholes distinguish the classic v-neck pullover style. Our pattern is adapted for circular needles. The needle size determines the garment's finished chest size of 41", 45-1/2", or 51" with gauges of 5.25, 4.75, and 4.25 stitches per inch. Our vest was designed for Black Water Abbey's Irish 2-ply 100% wool yarn, which may be purchased as a kit at here. Black Water Abbey generously donates a percentage of kit sales to afghans for Afghans. Other yarns that yield the same gauge may be substituted.

Each pattern features a color photo and easy-to-read text instructions and charts in a Mylar sheet protector with a three-hole punch.

Buy 3 or 6 patterns in one purchase and save:

Choose 3 Patterns for $27

All 6 Knitting Patterns for $50

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