Hand warmers are one of my favorite things to knit. They don't involve the fuss of fingers; they're one size fits all; they don't take eons to make; and they're a great opportunity to express your style. In the past we've featured several hand warmer patterns on the Purlbee, each with its own character. The Daisy Stitch Hand Warmers were homespun and funky; the Pretty Lace Hand Warmers were feminine and sassy; and the Cashmere Hand Warmers were simple and luxurious. This season we bring you the Long Striped Hand Warmers, complete with a personality of their own. Relaxed, yet refined, they strike a delicate balance that fits every mood, from no-I-haven't-had-a-cup-of-coffee-yet to yes-I-am-fabulous.

The beautiful tonal shifts in the green are the result of Swan's Island's extraordinary natural dyes. This particular green is a mystical concoction made from the shavings of the Osage Orange tree and the fermented leaves of the Indigo herb. When applied to 100% organic merino wool chosen by Swan's Island, not only the yarn, but the story behind the yarn, starts to take on a very special feeling.

There's still time to whip up a pair or two for the holidays. Or, better yet, just relax and treat yourself to a new set of hand warmers this holiday season! For pattern instructions please visit our Long Striped Hand Warmers Project Journal. Thanks! - Whitney