Free (Practical) Knitting Patterns for Beginners

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I love knitting! I have since I was about 11 years old. It's such a practical & fun craft and I'm so excited to share what I've learned through my years of practicing & perfecting.

I have gathered a collection of knitting patterns that have four things in common;

1. they are free

2. they are suitable for beginners

3. they create practical items you (or your family/friends) will use and love 

4. use both worsted weight yarn and straight size 8 needles. 

This means you don't need to pay for the patterns, or different size needles or yarn! I'm sure you'll want to eventually, but for now, let's stick with the basics. I hope this list launches you into a newfound love and lots of wonderful creations. Remember- mistakes help us grow! I promise you'll make quite a few on the way. Don't give up!

Supplies:

Yarn

I'm a big believer in natural yarn fibers. I talk about that here. For these patterns, you will need worsted weight yarn. I put recommendations next to each pattern and will list them here as well.

Knit Picks Wool of the Andes

Knit Picks Swish Superwash Merino Wool

Lily Sugar 'N Cream 100% Cotton

If you go with the Wool of the Andes, do not machine wash or dry your project. You will be very sad, as your project will shrink and turn into felt.

Before you get started on your project, make sure that you have enough yardage. The amount of yardage in each ball of yarn is written on the label, and the amount of yardage required for your project will be written at the beginning of the pattern.

Needles

You will also need US size 8 knitting needles (5.0mm). These bamboo ones are great for starting out. Note: If your pattern needles to be a specific size, or if you find yourself knitting very tight or very loose, you will need to check your gauge. A quick YouTube search will bring up lots of great videos on how to check the gauge of your fabric!

Patterns:

Level 1: Dishcloth (Cotton)

Garter Stitch Dishcloth Knitting Pattern

by A Cute Little Shop

This is a super simple pattern using only knit stitches; this creates a squishy stitch pattern called garter stitch.

Level 2: Scarf (Swish)

Caron Garter Stitch Scarf

by Yarnspirations

This is another simple garter stitch pattern. You'll get a lot of practice with the knit stitch. 

Level 3: Ear Warmer (Swish)

Urban-Inspired Ear Warmer

by wiseknits

This pattern introduces the purl stitch. Alternating knit rows and purl rows creates this smooth fabric that curls at the edges. In this pattern, the author uses a provisional cast on and Kitchener stitch to make a smooth join. If this feels too advanced, you can simply cast on normally and stitch the two ends together. It won't be as smooth, but it can be hidden in the back or under the braids.

Level 4: Slippers (Wool of the Andes)

Recluse

by Lisa Mutch

This pattern will make you a super cute pair of slippers, while teaching you how to make increases for the toes! This pattern includes doing a three-needle bind off, but you do not need to learn this if it feels too advanced. You can simply bind off each side and seam them together.

Level 5: Hat (Swish)

Sophie's Hat

by Sophie Scott

It's time to make your first hat! How exciting! This hat introduces you to the 2x2 rib stitch and decreases to make the crown smaller.

Level 6: Mittens (Wool of the Andes)

Bev's THE mitts

by Beverly A. Qualheim

Look at you go! You made it to the last pattern. This pattern will be the biggest challenge yet, with rib stitch and stockinette stitch, decreases and a thumb. I believe in you!

Great job! I'm so proud of all you have accomplished! I'd love to see pictures of what you've made. Send them to me at rebekah.artfulmama@gmail.com or post in the comments.

If you're ready for your next challenge, grab a pair of circular needles and find the next set of more difficult patterns here! (Coming soon!)