Giftwork

Thanks to the inventive folks at Ravelry, many knitwear and crochet designers have contributed thousands of free or low-cost patterns for practically anything that can be knitted or crocheted, all stored in a searchable database. As my Traveldiva page shows, the queue for stuff I want to make is getting longer than my life expectancy.
Some recent finished items featuring Ravelry-gleaned patterns:

Two little-girl shrugs using the "Shrug This" pattern by Toni Kayser Weiner from the wonderful book - "One Skein Wonders". Each one took only an evening, and a little more time for the flowery pins of my own creation. This book and its companions, such as Luxury Yarn One-skein Wonders, are works of genius, edited by Judith Durant; they belong on every fiber lover's bookshelf!

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A "Warm Wardrobe" of handknits for my nephew, John Patrick, a seagoing salt embarking on a career as a marine biologist on the chilly seas off New Bedford, MA. Wool items are practical, as the wool will still provide warmth even when wet, but several will be needed since they'll take forever to dry.

First up, JP gets the Cousteau Look with the Marsan Watchcap, a great pattern by Stacyjoy Elkin, made with Lamb's Pride Worsted. The twisted rib and ingenious cuff make this a warm and winning design.

This head-hugging style is a modified version of another pattern from
"One Skein Wonders"...two strands of worsted-weight wool/mohair blend from my stash:

A quick and easy knit, Sara Amoroso's Swampfield Cowl is a simple yet interesting design that provides warmth with enough stretch so the wearer doesn't feel like he's choking.

And a self-designed crocheted topper made with super-bulky Lion Brand wool - not too tight on the head, but warm. I'm still partial to crochet for its speed and versatility.

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And another no-pattern item - a wrap crocheted in a grid pattern using Vanna's Choice Glamour in black with silver glitz thread; I'll probably make another, wider version as it packs well for travel, and the grid structure lets it double as a scarf:

Travel Security Pouch

Several travelers have asked how I hide valuables while on travel, particularly in crowded places. To begin with, I try not to carry too many items of value that need to be kept track of. If I'm staying in a hotel or on a cruise ship, I leave all cards and currency in the safe except one credit/debit card and some cash. These I stash in my handy little crocheted Travel Security Pouch, which is then stuffed securely into my bra. To avoid arrest, I discreetly retrieve the contents as needed, in a ladies room or shop fitting room.

The pouch is simple to make and 'install'. When time permits, I'll post actual patterns for knit and crocheted versions, but even for a beginning needlewoman, it's a simple bag made of soft sport or baby yarn; dimensions are 3 inches wide by 3.25 inches long, not including the flap with its little loop on the end. Attached is a lanyard about 6.5 inches long, also with a loop at the end. You need a small button with a good-sized shank that can accommodate both loops.

Installation:

1. Wrap the lanyard around a bra strap and button it on:

2. Fill the pouch with your millions:

3. Button the flap to close:

4. Slide pouch into the bra cup:
Voila! Your wealth will be safe and warm, and easily accessible.

I'm curious to know how others handle this important travel detail...what are your most effective security measures?