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Stitch Spring Flowers on This Pretty Cowl

April 28, 2023 by Sarah White

The storytelling that often accompanies recipe blog posts has become a bit of a joke on the Internet, with people who just want the recipe already complaining about the fact that the author tells the whole back story of the dish, their family’s reaction, the history of the herb cilantro, before they share the ingredients.

Of course the reason many people write posts like that is because the algorithms tend to prefer longer posts, and you can get more keywords into a post that has more words in general.

As a blogger I don’t mind the storytelling much, and while this trend isn’t found in knitting patterns as much as it is in recipes, sometimes it’s nice to get the backstory on a meal, or, in this case, a knitting pattern.

I think it’s worth reading the story that comes before the pattern on this one. The Orwell’s Garden cowl by Julie Cameron Gray is lovely by itself — a sock yarn cowl worked in the round, covered with dainty flowers. 

But the story behind the cowl gives it a deeper meaning and give us something to think about while we’re knitting. It’s about creating things that last, through the lens of gardening, but knitting is similar in that we make things and we don’t know who might enjoy them in the future, what might happen to them when we’re gone.

And if you’re not into the deep introspection right now, you can just scroll through like you do on those recipe posts.

The cowl uses four colors and the colorwork is presented in a chart. It’s not difficult if you know how to read a chart, but it might be more efficient to do the yellow stitches at the center of each flower in duplicate stitch (or even as a French knot to add some texture) rather than knitting a single stitch of that color in each flower. Grab the free pattern from Taddle Creek.

[Photo: Guy Crawford.]

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Matariki Magic: Fun and Meaningful Activities for Kids to Celebrate the Maori New Year

Matariki is such a beautiful time of year here in New Zealand. As a mum of two (plus our chaotic dog Aloo), I’ve really come to love how this season invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect—both with nature and with each other. The M?ori New Year isn’t just about looking to the stars; it’s about grounding ourselves in gratitude, remembrance, and community.

Over the years, I’ve tried out a few simple Matariki-inspired activities with my kids, and they’ve quickly become part of our winter traditions. Whether you’re new to Matariki or looking for ways to make it more meaningful for little ones, here are some fun, hands-on ideas to help kids engage with the celebration in a way that sticks.

 What Is Matariki?

Matariki is the name of the M?ori star cluster that appears in the early winter sky. Its rising marks the start of the M?ori New Year—a time to remember those who’ve passed, celebrate the present, and set intentions for the year ahead.

There are nine stars in the Matariki cluster, and each has its own special meaning. Some are linked to food sources (like water and land), while others connect us to wellbeing, weather, and the spiritual world. It’s a time rich in culture, reflection, and family connection.

 Matariki Craft & Activity Ideas for Kids

1. DIY Star Garland

This is such a calming activity for a rainy afternoon. Cut out nine stars from cardboard (cereal boxes work great), then let the kids decorate them with paints, markers, glitter—whatever you’ve got on hand. Each star can represent one of the Matariki stars.

Once decorated, string them together and hang them across a wall or window. It’s a beautiful way to bring the meaning of each star into your home.

2. Make a Matariki Wishing Tree

This one’s always a favourite. Collect a bare branch from the garden and place it in a heavy jar or vase. Cut out paper stars or leaves and let the kids write down their wishes or hopes for the year ahead. Tie the messages onto the branch with twine or ribbon.

It’s simple, personal, and brings so much heart into the space.

3. Prepare a Shared Meal (Kai)

Food is central to Matariki. It’s the perfect time to make a meal together—something seasonal and comforting. Whether it’s rewena (M?ori sourdough), vegetable soup, or even a shared breakfast, the idea is to come together and be thankful for what we have.

Talk about the food’s journey—where it came from, how it grows—and how it nourishes us. These are such great little moments for connection and learning.

4. Star Gazing & Story Time

Bundle up, grab a thermos, and head outside to spot the Matariki stars in the early morning or evening sky. Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, reading M?ori legends and stories about the stars indoors is just as magical.

Some of our favourite picture books:

  • The Seven Kites of Matariki by Calico McClintock

  • Matariki by Melanie Drewery

They’re gentle, thoughtful, and perfect for all ages.

5. Painted Kindness Rocks

Have your kids ever painted kindness rocks? Matariki is a lovely time to do this. Use paint pens or acrylics to decorate rocks with stars, spirals, or symbols of light and growth. You can write uplifting words or messages on the back.

Then go on a walk and hide them in your neighbourhood—or gift them to friends or teachers.

6. Memory or Gratitude Cards

Cut out simple card shapes and invite kids to write or draw something they’re thankful for or a memory of someone they miss. These can be added to your wishing tree or kept in a memory box that you revisit each Matariki.

This is a gentle way to talk about loss, love, and the people who’ve shaped us.

Matariki is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to pause and reconnect. These little moments we create with our children through craft, food, stories, and stargazing build memories that will stay with them for life.

If you give any of these ideas a go, I’d love to see what you and your wh?nau create. Tag us or send through your creations—we might even share them on CraftGossip.com!

From our family to yours, wishing you a season of warmth, wonder, and a sky full of stars.

 

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