My favorite tech edits from 2025
I’m lucky to be part of the behind-the-scenes process of bringing knitting patterns to life. My job is to check all the math and instructions to make sure the pattern actually works, so that by the time someone is knitting, they have an error-free pattern to work from.
When writing up a pattern, it’s easy for a designer to miss a “yo” or write “k2” instead of “k1.” Simple typos in a knitting pattern can ruin everything. Without that “yo", suddenly your shawl becomes a scarf. Or that extra knit stitch in one row might throw off the entire cable repeat!
Knitting is a great hobby for stress relief, but not if the knitting is causing more stress as you work through errors. I look at a lot of patterns throughout the year, so I wanted to share some of my favorites to give you some options for patterns you know will be correct, clear, and fun to knit.
Fool of a Toque by Ethan Pyle
Fool of a Toque is inspired by the world of Tolkien (like many of Ethan’s patterns), and named for Pippin (aka Peregrin Took), who Gandalf famously scolds with the line “Fool of a Took!”
I feel like if you are a LotR fan, you should make this pattern based on the name alone. Fortunately, it’s more than just a great name — this pattern features stunning interlocking cables, presented both as written instructions and charts, and a folded brim that starts with a tubular cast-on.
It is designed in Ethan’s own yarn, Refracted Light Fiber Arts, and he also includes several different suggestions for yarn substitutions at a range of price points.
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fool-of-a-toque
LaBaaBaa by Juliette Pécaut
Why get a Labubu when you can have LaBaaBaa? This is a cute and quick pattern, with instructions for making LaBaaBaa a little sweater out of scraps of fingering yarn so you can match.
There are kits available for this pattern as well that come with all the yarn you need, the keychain, and safety eyes.
Bamboo Shoots Scarf by Nancy Victorino
This very unique scarf was so fun to edit! It combines a memorable repeat with some interesting finishing techniques, including surface crochet and a twisted fringe. She includes very detailed instructions for both, so even if you’ve never picked up a crochet hook before, you’ll be able to follow along.
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bamboo-shoots-scarf
Twigs and Roots Wrap by Marci Marra
This wrap is a favorite from this year because it features reversible cables. Yep, you heard that right. I love cables, but it is a real bummer that they typically create a fabric that only looks good on one side. Marci’s clever design incorporates cables that look great on both sides, so you don’t have to worry about what side is facing out when you’re wearing it.
One side is the “Twigs,” which is meant to emulate tree branches, and the other side is the “Roots,” which is meant to emulate a tree’s root system.
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/twigs-and-roots-wrap
Headliner Hat by Joy Friedman
The Headliner Hat is a simple colorwork hat with a very satisfying geometric motif.
It would work well in a variety of colors, making it great for using up stash yarn, and the brim is knit in a different color, allowing you to add an extra pop to whatever color palette you choose (though I am partial to Joy’s original color selections and love the way it looks in black and white).
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/headliner-hat
