Frigid temperatures are upon us, and that means one thing: keeping warm.  How about foregoing  the costly department store prices and creating your own awesome scarves, fuzzy socks and warm mittens.  All you need are two hands, a couple balls of yarn, needle(s), a comfortable chair and a bit of free time.

Below is a selection of titles for your knitting and crocheting pleasure. Have a seat, relax, grab the needle and yarn, take a deep breath, hook and loop, chain or stitch and let the projects begin.

Arm Knitting: How to Make A 30-Minute Infinity Scarfs and Other Great Projects by Mary Beth Temple
Features detailed instructions for making scarves, cowls, wraps and capes in 30 minutes, using your arms instead of needles.

Baby Knits from Around the World: 20 Heirloom Projects in a Variety of Styles and Techniques
Showcases 20 classic knitting designs, from world renowned artisans. Provides instruction for making hats, blankets, booties and more.

Blooming Crochet Hats: 10 Crochet Designs With Ten Mix-and-Match Accents by Shauna-Lee Graham
Instructions for crocheting 10 types of  hats and how to add flowers and motifs for a more stylish look.

The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet by Margaret Hubert
An instructional guide to crocheting basics. Includes tools and techniques plus a variety of stitch and crocheting patterns.

Crochet Cool: Fun Designs for Kids Ages 1 to 6 by Tanya Bernard
Art noveau, retro-chic and bohemian style patterns for making scarves, mitten, hats and socks for both boys and girls.  Includes a glossary of abbreviations, size range and a difficulty key.

Crochet by June Gilbank
An introduction to crocheting including advice on tools, yarns, how to read patterns and charts and correcting mistakes.

First Time Knitting: The Absolute Beginner's Guide by Carri Hammett
This book guides beginners on a journey to confident knitting.

Quick & Easy Crochet: Cowls
Six quick and easy designs for making beautiful cowls using different types of yarn.