This article is part of our monthly Moon Chronicles series, connecting celestial events with your favorite fiber arts. The Moon has been a timeless partner in creativity — a quiet observer of every first cast-on, every dropped stitch, and every completed project that warmed both hands and hearts. We can’t ignore the calming effect and inspiration it offers; its gentle glow seems to mirror the rhythm of our craft — steady, patient, and ever-evolving. Whether you’re spinning, knitting, or crocheting under its light, the Moon reminds us that creativity, like its phases, is always in motion.
The Beaver Moon and the Season of Makers
Native Americans are credited with naming November’s full moon “the Beaver Moon” in honor of the industrious creatures who use this time of year to build their winter quarters. In more than one way, those furry creatures have a lot in common with crafters as they approach the winter season and get “busy as a beaver” making handmade gifts.
© Sara Elizabeth Kellner
A Knit for the Season: The Little Beaver Toy
To celebrate the moon, while browsing the internet, we came across this adorable pattern - a little beaver toy by Sara Elizabeth Kellner. Her free pattern might just be the perfect holiday gift for the girl or boy in your life who is interested in the natural world.
It is knit in the round and uses the linen stitch for the tail; it will be as instructive for the maker as it will be fun for the receiver. An effective two-row stitch that is used for the beaver’s tail. It results in a piece of work that lies flat and looks like hand-woven thick fabric (It’s also ideal for placemats).
Celestial Spotlight: The Super Beaver Moon of 2025
The Beaver Moon is especially impressive in 2025 since it is a Super Moon, one that appears larger and brighter than usual because it is closer to Earth in its orbit. The Beaver Moon also signals that fall is coming to an end and winter is fast approaching. Depending upon where you live, trees and shrubs have lost leaves, and frost can be seen on the ground outside.
Free Pattern: Bearly Bonnet for Cozy Winter Days
A little research on the behavior of winter animals led us to this free pattern from Pure Stitches Ravelry Store for the well-named Bearly Bonnet, which we just had to share. Using a DK weight yarn and circular needles in your favorite finish, this works up quickly and will turn any baby into a cuddly little bundle of warmth—just in time for December’s upcoming full moon: The Cold Moon
© Pure Stitches
Looking Ahead: The Cold Moon and the Solstice
The “Cold Moon” will be high in the sky around December 15. Its name is credited to North America’s Mohawk people, who viewed this time of year as the start of deep winter. The Cold Moon appears just before the Winter Solstice, which arrives on December 21st. The Solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. On this day, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted at its furthest point away from the sun. After this date, the days begin to get a little longer, in daily small increments of time.
For thousands of years, cultures have marked the winter solstice with celebrations, rituals and storytelling. Many mythic tales focus on themes of rebirth and expression of gratitude for the return of the sun.
Free Pattern: The Crocheted Gratitude Shawl
In acknowledgement of the season’s spirit, here is a free pattern for a crocheted Gratitude Wrap designed and written by Natasha Thorley of Button nose Crochet.
© Buttonnose Crochet
Made using dk weight yarn, this lacy beauty is actually a very simple combination of single and double crochet stitches. Imagine how pretty it will look in an assortment of springtime colors. You can put your yarn stash to use or get a few skeins of variegated colorways, perfect for a gift to a loved one or to embrace in the cold weather.
Celestial events are a source of interest and fascination to those who appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Here are some upcoming nighttime sightings to keep in mind:
November 17–18
The Leonid Meteor Showers are well known for the fast and bright streaks of light that shoot across the sky, sometimes producing dramatic fireballs. This year’s shower coincides with a waning moon, so they should be highly visible provided there is not too much cloud coverage.
December 13–14
The Geminid Meteor Showers are considered one of the most dramatic “shows” of the year. A waning moon, again, provides excellent viewing.
So, when the calendar aligns and the weather permits, consider grabbing a warm blanket (hopefully a hand-knit one) and settling outdoors. Lie back and let our precious planet put on a beautiful show – just for you.
Let the moon chronicles guide you with inspiration while you choose handcrafted ebony wood knitting needles or crochet hooks to express your creativity. Spark your joy with handmade whimsical accessories, explore the Lantern Moon Collection as timeless as the moon and crafting itself.