The Coiled Serpent Desk Guardian: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured Pen Holder

Transform your desk into a mystical workspace with this enchanting knitted coiled serpent pen holder. Featuring rich emerald and gold textures, this unique pattern creates a soft, sculptural organizer that keeps your pens upright while adding a touch of fantasy to your daily routine. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a curious beginner, this project is a delightful way to combine functionality with whimsical charm. The finished piece—a spiral coil with a peeking serpent head—will become a conversation starter and a beloved desk companion.

This pattern is designed to be accessible, with clear instructions and minimal shaping. The result is a sturdy yet soft holder that stands about 4 inches tall, perfect for holding pens, pencils, or even small tools. Let's dive into the magical world of knitted desk decor!

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials. All yarn is worsted weight, which is widely available and easy to work with.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in three colors:
  • MC (Main Color): Emerald green – approximately 150g
  • CC1 (Contrast Color 1): Gold – approximately 50g
  • CC2 (Contrast Color 2): Dark brown – approximately 30g
• Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles
• Notions: Tapestry needle for sewing and weaving in ends, scissors, stitch markers
• Optional: Polyester fiberfill (for shaping the coil, if needed)

Gauge

20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch (K on RS, P on WS). Gauge is important for achieving the correct size, so take a moment to knit a small swatch before starting.

Abbreviations

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
• P2tog: Purl two stitches together (decrease)
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• Rep: Repeat
• RS: Right side
• WS: Wrong side

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your very own Coiled Serpent Desk Guardian. Take your time, and enjoy the process!

Body of the Coil (Make 1)

1. Cast On: With MC (emerald green), CO 30 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
3. Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
4. Repeat Rows 1-2: Continue repeating these two rows until the piece measures 12 inches from the cast-on edge. End with a WS row (a purl row).
5. Decrease Row 1 (RS): K2tog across the row. You will have 15 stitches remaining.
6. Next Row (WS): Purl all stitches.
7. Decrease Row 2 (RS): K2tog across the row. You will have 8 stitches remaining (approximately).
8. Finish: Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail (about 10 inches). Thread the tail through a tapestry needle, then pass it through the remaining 8 stitches. Pull tight to gather the stitches together and secure the top opening of the coil. Weave in the end securely.

Coil Structure (Inner Wall)

1. Pick Up Stitches: With the right side of the body facing you, use MC to pick up and knit 30 stitches along the long edge of the rectangle (the side opposite the cast-on edge). This is the edge that will form the inner wall of the coil.
2. Work Stockinette: Work in stockinette stitch (K on RS, P on WS) for 2 inches.
3. Decrease Row 1 (RS): K2tog across the row. You will have 15 stitches remaining.
4. Next Row (WS): Purl all stitches.
5. Decrease Row 2 (RS): K2tog across the row. You will have 8 stitches remaining.
6. Finish: Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pull tight, and secure. This creates the inner coil wall, giving the holder its spiral structure.

Base

1. Cast On: With MC, CO 30 stitches.
2. Work Stockinette: Work in stockinette stitch (K on RS, P on WS) for 2 inches.
3. Bind Off: Bind off all stitches loosely. This will be the bottom of the holder.

Assembly

1. Sew the Base: Using the tapestry needle and MC yarn, sew the base to the bottom of the coil. Match the edges carefully, ensuring the coil stands upright. The base should fit snugly against the bottom edge of the coil structure.
2. Check the Opening: The top opening should be wide enough to hold pens. If it feels floppy, stuff lightly with polyester fiberfill to help maintain its shape. Insert the fiberfill through the top opening before finishing the assembly.

Serpent Head (Optional but Recommended)

1. Cast On: With MC, CO 10 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
3. Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
4. Repeat Rows 1-2: Continue until the piece measures 3 inches.
5. Decrease Row (RS): K2tog across the row. You will have 5 stitches remaining.
6. Finish: Cut the yarn, thread through the remaining stitches, pull tight, and secure. This forms the head.
7. Attach the Head: Sew the head to the top edge of the coil, positioning it as if the serpent is peeking over the edge. Place it slightly off-center for a playful look.

Eyes

1. Embroider Eyes: Using CC1 (gold), embroider two small French knots or satin stitches on the head to create eyes. Place them symmetrically on the front of the head, about 1 inch apart.

Scales Texture (Optional)

1. Add Scale Stitches: Using CC2 (dark brown), embroider small V-shaped stitches along the body of the coil to mimic scales. Space them evenly across the surface, about 1-2 inches apart. This adds wonderful texture and visual interest.

Finishing

1. Weave in Ends: Use the tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends securely, ensuring they are hidden within the knitting.
2. Block Gently: If needed, block the piece gently to shape it. Lay it flat and mist with water, then allow it to dry completely. This helps even out the stitches.
3. Place Pens: Insert your pens into the central opening. The holder will keep them upright and organized, adding a touch of fantasy to your desk.

Congratulations! You've created your very own Coiled Serpent Desk Guardian. This charming piece is not only functional but also a beautiful expression of your knitting skills. Enjoy your mystical workspace!