Christmas Bauble no. 16

Christmas Bauble no. 16 by Knao Knits

What is Being Made

Christmas Bauble no. 16 is a knitted decorative bauble designed as part of a festive collection. This ornament is crafted to be a finished sphere measuring approximately 8.5cm to 9cm (3.35" to 3.55") in diameter, making it an ideal size for hanging on a Christmas tree or displaying as seasonal decoration.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create the finished bauble. The design utilizes increasing techniques to shape the ornament into its spherical form, requiring careful attention to tension to ensure proper sizing. Cable work is incorporated into the design, adding textural interest and visual complexity to the bauble. The project is worked on five double-pointed knitting needles, which are essential for creating seamless, circular knitted pieces in the round.

Stitches Used

The bauble pattern features multiple stitch options to achieve different aesthetic effects:

• Stocking stitch – a fundamental knit stitch pattern that creates a smooth, classic appearance
• Moss stitch – a textured stitch pattern that adds visual depth and interest to the finished ornament
• Cable stitches – decorative twisted stitches that create dimensional, rope-like patterns

Materials and Yarn Weight

Christmas Bauble no. 16 is designed to be worked in chunky weight yarn, which allows for relatively quick completion and creates a substantial, durable ornament. The pattern is structured so that all baubles in the collection use the same yarn weight and a single set of five double-pointed knitting needles, ensuring consistency across the designs. The specific needle size may be adjusted based on individual knitter tension and the stitch pattern selected.

Tension Requirements

Achieving the correct finished size requires attention to tension specifications. For stocking stitch, knitters should aim for 17 stitches and 22 rows per 10cm (4") square. For moss stitch, the target tension is 16 stitches and 28 rows per 10cm (4") square. Knitters may need to adjust needle size up or down depending on whether they knit tightly or loosely. Special care should be taken not to pull stitches too firmly, particularly during increasing rounds and cable work, as excessive tension will result in a bauble that is smaller than intended.