This pattern is easier than it looks. The star is made in two halves on single-pointed needles, then the halves are sewn together around the edges, with some filling in between. Instructions for knitting in the round are not included here, but the pattern is simple enough to be converted easily to this method.

Most placemats and coasters, at least in the UK, are sold in sets of four or six. But this set has seven of each, because there are traditionally seven colours in a rainbow. That means there’s a spare mat and coaster in case you have an unexpected guest at your dinner table.

A knitted amigurumi bat, made with scraps of double knitting yarn. Just right for Halloween!

This winter hat for a little girl is really warm and soft. It is also very quick and simple to make.

This cosy is designed to fit a family-size teapot that measures about 15cm/6in high and 17.5cm/7in in diameter. It has a useful hanging loop at the top and an unusual bobbly texture. The larger bobbles around the hanging loop are knitted separately from the main parts of the cosy.

These gloves were inspired by (and designed to match) the “Lazy Knitter’s Cowl”, created by Maria Zilakou. Maria’s pattern is available at: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-lazy-knitters... . She has kindly given her permission for this glove pattern to be published.

One of the cheapest and healthiest ways to reduce stress is to squeeze a stress ball. This simple pattern uses eyelash yarn (fun fur), which has an additional calming effect because it’s very strokeable.

These headbands can be customised with a wide range of motifs and stitch patterns. Instructions for four different variations are given here, but there are lots of other ideas you could try.

This octopus makes a lovely cuddly toy for a baby or small child, but you could also knit it for an adult, as it can be used as a mascot, a pincushion, a paperweight or even a stress ball.

This small, lightweight blanket has multiple uses. It was originally designed as a baby shawl or crib blanket, but it could also be used by an adult as a lap warmer, a table centrepiece, a bedside rug, a decorative mini-throw for an armchair, or even a flamboyant scarf. Do not use it as a cat or dog blanket, however, because these animals are ...

A detailed representation of H P Lovecraft’s mythical creature Cthulhu, knitted mostly in reverse stocking (stockinette) stitch. The toy measures approximately 10in/26cm tall.