I’m no good at planning ahead to knit gifts for my loved ones at Christmas. It’s usually a last minute panic, sometime mid-November. This list of ten free knit patterns is perfect for those of you who, like me, need a great pattern that’s quick and easy, yet super cute and gift-able! I suggest getting your list of gift recipients out and writing down who’s getting what from this collection of quick knits. Plan a weekend at most for each of these projects, and some make up even as quick as an hour or two.
Bulky Hand Warmers
These bulky weight Quick Franca Mitts from Manos Del Uruguay, a women’s cooperative in Uruguay, are a great beginner project. They knit up so quick in Manos’ chunky Franca yarn, or any yarn that gives you a gauge of 10 sts per 4"/10cm with US 13-15 needles. You’re basically just knitting a rectangle and seaming the side, leaving room for your thumb to poke out. A great gift for my teenage nieces!
Slippers Like Grandma Used to Make
These Grandma’s Knit Slippers bring back all the feels of when my Grandma would make them for us! Nothing says love like hand made slippers. These start out with an easy garter stitch, and then change to a ribbed stitch up at the toe. All the shaping is made with seaming, so things stay pretty quick and easy. Great for beginners! My daughter made a pair of these in 2 days, and plans to make more for gifts for cousins and aunts and uncles!
Cable Knit Headband
I love a project that’s quick, yet not boring, and this Cable Knit Headband meets all the requirements! It’s a free pattern on Ravelry, and if you don’t already have a free account on Ravelry, it’s time to sign up! You’ll have access to thousands of patterns, many of them free, and a priceless community of knitters and crocheters. This headband has a garter stitch on the edges to keep the edges lying flat and then a basic and fun cable running down the middle. After I make a few more for myself, all the ladies on my list will get one of these!
Chunky Knit Throw Pillow
When it’s hygge season and you need more cozy, this Chunky Knit Throw Pillow saves the day! You can use any color or combo of colors to match any decor. It’s basically a hand knit hug that keeps on giving! Grab your giant needles and get started! A great gift for my bachelor uncle.
Hand Knit Reindeer Stocking
Ever been intimidated by knitting socks? This Festive Christmas Stocking is your chance to practice sock making without all the hard parts, like turning heals. The reindeer is adorable, but you could also make this in a solid color, stripes, or embroider any motif you like. Plus, knitting stockings really puts you in that holiday spirit. Make a matching set for your whole family, or for any new members.
Bulky Tassel Blanket
Look no further, you’ve just found the Perfect Throw Blanket! Thick and quick, but hand made and full of style points. Truly works up in a weekend. Plan on more yarn than you think you’ll need for those tassels, but it’s oh so worth it. My brother needs this for his new house.
Hand Knit Basket
I always wanted to learn how to weave a basket. But I never knew I could KNIT a basket! There’s 101 uses for a basket, just think of all the possibilities with sizes and colors. My husband may get a few of these for Christmas, places to put all the things he’s always loosing.
Tassel Golden Hour Scarf
Scarves are winters alternative to necklaces, am I right? So you basically can’t have too many. The Golden Hour Scarf is not only a winter wardrobe staple, but it’s fun to make. This pretty texture is really a simple ribbing with a few yarn overs, repeat. But I’m really in it for the tassels! I have a few aunties who could use another scarf.
Basic Chunky Beanie
Your classic ribbed knit beanie, the Nina Hat from Manos del Uruguay. Makes up so fast in chunky yarn (gauge 13 sts = 4” with US size 11). Perfect for guys and gals. Pom pom is optional. Just grab their favorite color and get knitting! Don’t know what to get your brother in law? You just found it.
Knit Hair Scrunchie
Yes, they’re back in style. Scrunchies forever! The only thing that makes this Knit Scrunchie pattern better is the fantastic yarn from Knit Collage! Go drool over all that yarn hand spun in India, then grab this pattern and get started. The perfect stocking stuffers for all the girls!