Since I mention Japanese Zakka quite a bit, I should explain what that is. "Zakka" is the Japanese term for "household goods".  It's much more of a movement that has been taking over the craft genre for some time now.  The Japanese Mooks (mag/books) are a great source of inspiration for handmade zakka.  Last night I finished a potholder that is hand knit intarsia (color block knitting) with organic cotton yarn.  The cross theme is common in Scandinavian design so it looks great with my vintage Dansk Kobenstyle pot collection.  I think this potholder is a great project for an intermediate or even an experienced beginner knitter.  Intarsia knitting is so much fun and less complicated than fairisle knitting.  That really scares me.