Stitching The Unknown: What is a Mystery Knit Along (MKAL)?

 

What is a Mystery KAL?

An MKAL is a knit-along where a knitting pattern is broken down into “clues.” Each clue tells you exactly what to knit BUT (here’s where the mystery part comes in…) you have no idea about the specifics of the project. There are no photos and no hints to clue you into what you're making. Whether you’re knitting a sleeve, a toe, or the crotch of your new favorite thong - it’s a MYSTERY, see what I mean?!

Most MKAL clues are released one at a time and on a predetermined schedule, so you always know when they’re coming.

An MKAL with Meeee (and Lola)

When I host MKALS, the design is always a brand-new, never-before-seen pattern, and you can count on it being innovative and amusing! Since I keep my lips sealed about the details of the design, a big part of the fun is trying to guess what your knitting will turn into. (Hint: if you look at my past MKALs, you can see they are always one-size accessories, like cowls, scarves, or shawls). I keep the construction unique as part of the guessing game!

After signing up, you can join my Ravelry group AND/OR Facebook group. We've got a great community of knitters around the world, and everyone LOVES to knit together! Each time a clue is released, you will receive an email with a link to the updated PDF - just a piece, though, not the full pattern! With each release, new threads will be set up in my Ravelry and Facebook groups to support and encourage you all. We will all be knitting on the same schedule, and everyone will end up with a fabulous project.

I always provide loads of video support and written instructions so you can follow along with the rest of the group and learn new techniques. You can purchase a kit to use the same materials as the rest of the group or choose to go stash diving.

My Next MKAL!

Into The Hoods MKAL 2025

Pack your needles, grab your yarn, and let’s head Into the Hoods. This mystery knit-a-long isn’t just for fairy godmothers or talking wolves—it’s about YOU, your stitches, and the adventure waiting just past the cast-on.

The pattern has three hood shapes to explore, each with a one or two-color option—that means six options in one mystery knit-a-long!

• In the mood for a balaclava for winter? I’ve got you!
• What about a “dickey style” hood that hugs your shoulders?
• Maybe you love a good wrap and have been craving a hooded scarf!

By the end, you’ll have a winter accessory worthy of campfire admiration, and perfect for holiday gifting.

• Clue #1: October 22nd — “The First Breadcrumb”
• Clue #2: October 29th — “Into the Woods”
• Clue #3: November 5th — “Trails Diverge”
• Clue #4: November 19th — “Happily Ever After”

Get the pattern now and be ready to step Into the Hoods with us on Oct 22nd!

What I Love About Mystery KALs 

Oftentimes, as knitters, we see a photo of a project and get overwhelmed by its intricacy. We decide that our knitting skills are not up to the task. Even if we are perfectly capable, we tell ourselves we aren't.

With Mystery knit-a-longs, we banish that fear! There’s no intimidating photo, no big scary pattern, only bite-sized instructions that you follow word for word.

The result?

Many knitters are surprised by their own abilities! They gain an incredible amount of confidence through this process - in such a fun way! Once they start knitting, they find out what they (and their needles) are really capable of. The mystery allows us to really let go, drop some inhibitions and expectations, and just knit.

The project may be a mystery, but the fun is truly obvious!

My Past MKALs

I've orchestrated a ton of Mystery Knit Alongs, and each one is like a treasure hunt for your needles. Each of my past MKALs has been a rollercoaster of fun designs. Whether you're a seasoned MKAL adventurer or a newbie ready to dive into this yarny unknown, take a look at my past designs for inspiration: view my past MKALs here!

See below for a few of my favorites:

Cowltopus MKAL 2024

Let’s dive into an ocean of fun with COWLTOPUS Mystery KAL! I’m a sucker for a Mystery Knit-a-long, and maybe you are too! Knit with under 400 yards of DK-weight yarn, this mystery cowl is perfect for those who want to dip their needles into an ink-credible knit. Check out all of the Cowltopi that have been knit!

cOWL MKAL 2023

The original cOWL MKAL announcement:

This MKAL is going to be a HOOT. This mystery knit will FLY off your needles. Four bite-sized clues build off of each other, with new techniques and video support to guide you in your flight. The cowl you’ll be knitting is the latest in HOOT Couture!

Flowla MKAL 2022

The original Flowla MKAL announcement:

Sooo my alter-ego Lola has been asking to design a Mystery Knit-a-Long (MKAL) forEVER… and I finally gave in. That means Lola’s Choice members got a pretty special kit for July. As with all my MKALs, Lola will have you thinking you are knitting a thong… but go with the Flowla, I promise you aren’t knitting underwear! Hint: it is a summer shawl!

Check out the preview clue here - it launched in mid-July 2022:

Open Minds MKAL 2021

The original Open Minds MKAL announcement:

Ready to have an OPEN MIND with me?

As with all of my MKALs, the construction of Open Minds is unique and will probably blow your mind a little. I’ve kept the stitches simple and allowed for options if you want to challenge your needles a bit more.

Check out the preview clue here - it launched in mid-May 2021:

View my past MKALs here!