Everyone is wearing handmade sweaters these days -- even dogs. And don't think we left out the felines, because cats can have their own knitted or crocheted treasures and toy projects.
Yes, that's right; now your pet can be sporting the finest in hand-knit woolens, sleeping on cozy, felted fiber beds and chasing furry yarn mice.
With estimates showing more than 67 percent of U.S. households owning a pet, chances are you do too. Bonnie Beaver, professor of small animal medicine at Texas A&M University, says, "Dogs and cats don't live in the backyard anymore. They live in the house. Their role in our lives has changed. Some say they're family members."
That might explain why pet projects have become the focus of several pattern books for knitters and crochet fanatics over the last few years. This trend defies our economy, because we really love our pets.
Dogs rule in "Simple Gifts for Dog Lovers," written by Catherine Tough (Martingale & Company, $18.95). Sweaters in all sizes, dog neck scarves, doggie beds and couch throws, grooming kits and playthings are among the ideas for your dog.
For dog-loving friends, or yourself, there is a cute dog bone for your key chain, sofa pillows and a picture frame. Felted dog paw slippers will make someone's toes warmer this winter.
There is also a wonderful old-fashioned draft stopper for your door, knitted and pieced with fabric in the shape of a whimsical dachshund, that might just keep your heating bills a bit lower when it's cold. Cute dog tote bags would make a wonderful gift. They can be filled with doggie treats, gourmet dog food and used for shopping trips or walking the dog later.
Cat lovers will adore "Kitty Knits," written by Donna Druchunas, (Martingale & Company, $19.95). You will find really adorable and easy-to-make feline toys, blankets, feeding bowl mats and beds of all types.
Druchunas, a cat lover herself, also has included sweaters, hats, slippers, socks, scarves, tote bags and home decor accessories for you to proudly announce to the world that you love cats. As always, Druchunas has put together creative patterns with design flair that will keep you going back for more.
Vogue Knitting "On the Go" series features "Knits For Pets" (Sixth & Spring Books, $12.95).
This small book is full of large ideas for pet lovers that include a felted "hot dog" doggie toy, cat toys, a "Kate Spayed" dog tote, people hats with dog ears, feeding bowl mats, doggie sweaters and capes in all sizes, cat collars and home decor items for you and your pet.
For cold Alaska winter days, Noelle and Joe McCullough's family dog, Porter, is sporting a hand-knit sweater that Noelle made from a purchased kit. Lion Brand Yarn company has several kits for dog sweaters at affordable prices. The kits make terrific presents too.
I have loved cats all my life, so I understand some of this appeal. I know that when my family sees something with a cat on it, they often think of me, and I have piles of cat mementos to prove it.
Keeping the family pet in toys while you satisfy your need to stitch is smart, and giving a dog- or cat-inspired gift is an easy way to tell someone dear that you understand their love for a special pet.
This holiday season remember your pets, and your pet-loving friends, with unique needlework just for the family pet.
Interior designer, artist and knitwear designer Catherine Hollingsworth is past president of the Alaska Sate Yarn Council and Knitters of the North. E-mail twosticks@adnmail.com.
KNITTERS OF THE NORTH GUILD EVENTS: Regular Guild open meeting Nov. 8, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Pioneer School House Third Avenue and Eagle Street in Anchorage. For more information call Janice Chulick, 561-3933 or visit the Yahoo Group page at groups.yahoo.com/group/Knitters_North/
By CATHERINE HOLLINGSWORTH
Daily News corresponent