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16 free on-trend Ravelry knitting patterns you can download now

These are best of the best.
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Ravelry is an excellent place to find knitting patterns, but trawling through the hundreds of free ones can be a chore. So, we’ve done the hard work by picking our favourite free knitting patterns from Ravelry, ready for you to download.

From hot water bottle covers to cardigans and beanies, here are 16 free knitting patterns you should bookmark or download right now.

And if it’s free crochet patterns you want, check out our edit of the best crochet patterns on Ravelry

Free knitting patterns on Ravelry

1. World’s simplest mittens

Free Ravelry knitting pattern: World's simplest mittens.
(Credit: Tin Can Knits)

If you’re new to knitting, these mittens by Tin Can Knits are a great place to start. The pattern is easy to follow. They even have a tutorial with step-by-step images and instructions.

2. Classic ribbed hat

Classic ribbed hat.
(Credit: Purl Soho) (Credit: Purl Soho)

A simple yet stylish pattern from Purl Soho, this beanie is knitted in rib stitch and will warm your head all winter. 

3. French macaron sweater pattern

French macaron sweater pattern.
(Credit: The Noble Thread)

Inspired by colourful macarons, this easy baby jumper by The Noble Thread is knitted using a garter stitch. Each side is knitted in one piece and then seamed together.

4. Free family hat

Free family hat.
(Credit: Lavanya Patricella)

A family who wears knitted beanies together stays together.  And this free Ravelry pattern is cute enough to keep everyone cosy.

5. Hot water bottle cover

Free ravelry pattern hot water bottle.
(Credit: Emily Bolduan)

A quick and easy knit no matter what your skill level is, and it also makes a great gift.

6. Effortless cardigan

Ravelry Effortless cardigan pattern.
(Credit: Zabeth) (Credit: Zabeth)

The name says it all. If you’re ready to move on from hats and scarves, this cardigan knitting pattern by Zabeth is for you. 

7. Side line scarf

Free Ravelry scarf knitting pattern.
(Credit: Fifty Four Ten Studio)

For beginner knitters, this free scarf knitting pattern by Fifty Four Ten Studio will keep you warm and cosy. 

9. Bubble stitch cardigan

Bubble stitch cardigan pattern.
(Credit: Paintbox Yarns)

This oversize cardigan by Paintbox Yarns is made using a fun bubble stitch. Thanks to the recommended Paintbox chunky yarn, it knits quickly and is available in many shades.

10. Wonderful big stitch throw

Wonderful big stitch throw.
(Credit: Heather Lodinsky)

This Big Stitch Throw by Heather Lodinsky uses 25 mm needles and super chunky yarn, so you can expect this to be a quick knit. 

11. Colourblock hand towel in sunshower cotton

Ravelry Colourblock hand towel in sunshower cotton.
(Credit: Purl Soho)

Add a pop of colour to your kitchen or bathroom with this absorbent cotton hand towel from Purl Soho.

12. Basic chunky socks

Free Ravlery knitting pattern chunky socks.
(Credit: Caroline Montague) (Credit: Caroline Montague)

The basic chunky socks knitting pattern by Caroline Montague is a simple and cosy design that’s perfect for keeping your feet warm and toasty during the colder months.

13. Easy-going knit pullover

Easy-Going Knit Pullover free knitting pattern.
(Credit: Yarnspirations Design Studio)

A comfortable and versatile sweater by Yarnspirations Design Studio that’s perfect for everyday wear.

14. Bear-y cosy blanket

Bear-y cosy blanket.
(Credit: Yarnspirations Design Studio)

The cute bear motif on this blanket by Yarnspirations Design Studio will surely delight both young and old on a cold night. 

15. Easy chunky lace scarf

Lacy chunky scarf free knitting pattern.
(Credit: Sheep and Stitch)

This lacy scarf by Sheep and Stitch is perfect for dressing up any outfit while keeping you nice and warm.

16. Tiny house washcloths

Free ravelry knitting pattern cotton hand towel.
(Credit: Purl Soho)

This washcloth pattern shaped like a tiny house by Purl Soho would make a charming addition to any home. Perfect as a housewarming gift.

How do you get knitting patterns for free on Ravelry?

You can create filters to find the right pattern when searching for knitting patterns in Ravelry. Select the free filter so the search results reflect that. Once you’ve chosen a pattern, click the link in the pattern article, and your pattern will automatically download. 

What is the best site for free knitting patterns?

There are several great websites where you can find free knitting patterns. Here are five options to help you get started:

  1. Yarnspiration: Yarnspiration is a website that offers a wide range of knitting patterns for free. They have a diverse collection of patterns suited for different skill levels and project types.
  2. Lion Brand: Lion Brand is a well-known yarn company that also provides free knitting patterns on their website. They offer a variety of patterns for various projects, from hats and scarves to blankets and sweaters.
  3. Ravelry: Ravelry is a popular online community for knitters and crocheters. In addition to being a platform to connect with other crafters, Ravelry hosts a vast collection of free knitting patterns contributed by its members.
  4. Wool and the Gang: Wool and the Gang is a brand that specializes in sustainable and eco-friendly yarn. They offer a selection of stylish knitting patterns on their website, which you can download for free.
  5. Vogue Knitting: Vogue Knitting is a renowned knitting magazine that features both paid and free patterns on their website. They showcase high-quality designs from talented designers, and you can find some of their patterns available for free.

While these websites often design their patterns with specific yarns in mind, don’t worry if you want to use different yarns. It’s important to make a gauge swatch using the new yarn to ensure it matches the pattern’s requirements. If needed, adjust your needle size to achieve the correct gauge.

When substituting yarn or if you can’t find the recommended yarn, consider the fibre content, yardage, and yarn weight of both the original yarn and the substitution yarn to ensure a suitable match.

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