Knitting in the Sticks

How Country Living Wove Its Way into My Practical Knitting Adventures

Life in the countryside isn’t just about picturesque landscapes; it’s also about how my knitting needles have adapted to thrive in the great outdoors. Let’s unravel the influence that knitting in the sticks (yes, pun intended 😉) has had on my own crafting adventures.

Spinning a Yarn: Just Me, the Mountains, and the Trees

Let me tell you the tale of how my knitting has evolved since I moved back to my small, Colorado hometown. With less than 2000 people in town and lots of State and National Forest to wander around, I meet more deer and turkeys than I do people. And, thank goodness for the space! Nature and country-living have, without a doubt, inspired my knits.

Wild turkey in the pinon forest photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Yarn Adventures: Nature’s Color Palette

Living in the boonies means my yarn choices are a bit like picking berries – I go for the richest hues, found right outside my door. Whether it’s the muddy browns after a rainy day, the vibrant greens dancing in the trees, or the blue hues of the Rocky Mountain sky, my yarn basket mimics the countryside’s color spectrum.

Knitting in the sticks photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Weather-Proof Knits: Seasons Got Style

Surviving the rural Colorado climate means knitting for all seasons. When winter hits, I’m like a knitting bear in hibernation, creating thick, cozy accessories that could keep a snowman toasty. Come spring, my knitting switches to “practical mode” with functional home goods, like hand towels and washcloths.

Knitting in the Sticks by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Rural living also means limited choices. When the nearest mall is two hours away, fashion trends tend to fall behind. (We were still wearing those low-rise hip-hugging jeans well into the 2010s 🤫). That’s why I stick with classic, minimalist knitting designs that can survive changes in trends.

Farmyard Fiber Finds: Local Yarn Heroes

Let’s talk sheepish secrets! Living near farms means I’ve got access to some real woolly wonders. I snag local sheep’s fleece and alpaca wool fibers whenever I can. Craft fairs, art shows, and small-town festivals are filled with hidden fuzzy-gems. And trust me, these local fibers know how to keep you warm!

Fluffy Alpaca photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Practical Patterns: Hardworking Hobbies

I’ve mastered rural traditions in knitting that are as practical as a good ol’ farmer’s handshake. Classic stitches and Fair Isle designs – they aren’t just pretty; they’re like the Swiss Army knives of knitting, ready for anything mountain life throws my way.

See the Wide-Brim Hat Pattern

Tranquility: Peace Amidst the Pines and Purls

Here in my forest, a countryside symphony of chirping birds calm and entertain. As I weave together a new knitting project, songbirds whistle and hawks screech. Woodpeckers drum, while ravens provide a throaty chortle. Little Steller’s Jays mimic the other’s songs. The opus echoes down my little canyon when they awake. It’s the best sound therapy I can think of: simply soaking in the tranquility of the piñon forest.

Red Tailed Hawk Colorado Skies photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Songbirds in the oak brush photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Steller's Jay in front of a Full Moon photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Knitting in the Sticks

Living in the sticks has added a practical twist to my knitting endeavors. From yarn hues inspired by nature’s whimsy to patterns that could handle a rural rodeo, my knitting journey is a playful dance with the practical, backwoods charm. So, here’s to needles clicking, sheep frolicking, and country living inspiring every purl and knit in my stash!

Knitting in the Sticks: Colorado Knitting inspiration, photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

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December 21, 2023December 21, 2023

Knitting: A Timeless Resolution for the New Year

The perfect new year's resolution: learn to knit. Find free knitting lessons at PurlsAndPixels.com or learn with Liz Chandler's Knitting Guide, a complete beginners textbook.

As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us scribble down resolutions like “go to the gym” or “eat healthier.” But what if this year, you resolve to do something that doesn’t require spandex or saying goodbye to your favorite snacks? Enter knitting – the New Year’s resolution that’s both productive and forgiving of your occasional snack attack.

Cozy and Good For You

In a world spinning faster than a knitter’s yarn, picking up those needles offers a relaxing break from life’s chaos. Picture this: you, cocooned in a comfy chair, needles clacking away like a tiny percussion section, while everyone else is stuck in traffic. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a magical retreat that says, “Sorry, I’m on ‘knit’ time.”

Apart from fashioning fabulous scarves and blankets, knitting is like a personal Zen garden. Studies rave about its stress-busting powers and ability to lower blood pressure. While others are in downward-facing dog at the yoga studio, you’ll be in your happy place, creating something utterly ‘knit-credible.’

And let’s not forget the knitting community – it’s basically a secret society disguised as a craft circle. Join one, and you’ll soon be swapping stories faster than a dropped stitch. It’s where rivalries over the best yarn blend turn into lifelong friendships.

Plus, knitting isn’t just a way to avoid buying mass-produced stuff; it’s the ultimate flex of creativity. From a simple scarf to the Picasso of sweaters, every project you finish is a high-five to your inner artist.

This year, instead of sweating it out on the treadmill, why not create your own style while watching a marathon of your favorite shows? Pick up those needles, select some yarn that speaks to your soul, and knit your way to a year filled with cozy accomplishments and endless laughter.

Who knew that something as simple as two sticks and a ball of yarn could be the key to unlocking a year of creative fun? So, grab your needles, choose your colors, and let’s make this year ‘knit-tastic’! Cheers to a new year of loops, laughter, and knitted dreams coming true!

Learning to Knit

Try my free online knitting lessons, which teach you to knit from the absolute beginning. My YouTube Videos can also show you the basics of knitting. Or, order my book, “Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns.” There you will find both lessons and timeless knitting patterns. You can make your knitting New Year’s resolution come true!

December 11, 2023September 2, 2024

A Knitter’s Must-Haves

Exploring My Favorite Knitting Supplies

Where do I get my knitting supplies? Why do I choose the things I knit with? Find out here!

Knitting Books with Lessons & Patterns

Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns is, of course, my favorite knitting textbook. It includes both knitting lessons and knitting patterns. You’ll find everything you need to know about knitting, all in one place!

(Please note that all links to Amazon.com are affiliate links. If you place an order there, I earn a small commission from Amazon for referring you to products on their site.)

eBook

Paperback

Hardcover

eBook

Paperback

Hardcover

Yarn

Acrylic

Acrylic yarn, like Caron Simply Soft, is a favorite among knitters for several reasons. Its remarkable softness provides a cozy touch, akin to luxury fibers. Moreover, its vivid colors endure multiple washes, ideal for long-lasting projects like blankets or wearables. This yarn’s durability and resistance to stretching make it perfect for frequent use, while its hypoallergenic nature caters to sensitive individuals. Affordable, easy to maintain, and available in a variety of colors, acrylic yarn remains a versatile and dependable choice for knitters of all levels.

Caron Simply Soft

Caron Simply Soft Multipack

Caron Simply Soft Paints

Cotton

Cotton Yarn, like Lily Sugar ‘n Cream, is a knitting essential, offering a multitude of advantages. Its breathability provides comfort in warm weather. Plus, its absorbency makes it perfect for items requiring frequent washing like dishtowels. With fantastic stitch definition, intricate patterns stand out beautifully, and its durability ensures projects maintain shape and integrity. From cozy blankets to practical kitchen accessories, the versatility and resilience of cotton yarn make it a reliable choice for knitters.

Lily Sugar n'Cream

Wool

Merino wool is my top pick for knitters seeking both luxury and practicality. Malabrigo Yarn is renowned for its unmatched softness and natural elasticity, making it perfect for projects worn close to the body. Known for its superb insulation without excess bulk this yarn also has a stunning range of vibrant colors. Merino wool from Malabrigo Yarn adds both beauty and functionality to your knitting projects. The Malabrigo “Rios” line of yarns are a gorgeous worsted weight that works wonderfully with the patterns in Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide.

Malabrigo Yarn

Needles

Bamboo Knitting Needles

Bamboo knitting needles, exemplified by the esteemed Clover Bamboo Knitting Needles, offer an array of advantages that make them a beloved choice among knitting enthusiasts. Renowned for their lightweight and smooth surface, bamboo needles provide a comfortable and effortless knitting experience, reducing hand fatigue during extended knitting sessions. The natural texture of bamboo creates a slight grip on the yarn, preventing stitches from slipping off while allowing for a smooth and even knitting rhythm. Additionally, bamboo’s inherent flexibility and durability make these needles resilient yet gentle, ideal for working with delicate yarns or intricate stitch patterns. Moreover, their eco-friendly and sustainable nature adds an appealing factor for environmentally conscious crafters. Overall, bamboo knitting needles combine comfort, functionality, and sustainability, making them an excellent choice for knitters of all skill levels.

Clover Circular Needles

Clover Straight Needles

Clover DPNs

Metal Knitting Needles

Metal knitting needles, exemplified by the renowned Addi Turbo needles, offer a unique set of advantages highly valued by knitters. Their sleek and polished surface allows yarn to glide effortlessly, enabling swift and smooth knitting, ideal for those who prefer a faster pace or heavier yarns. The inherent rigidity of metal needles ensures consistent and even stitches, particularly beneficial for intricate patterns or projects requiring precise tension. Additionally, their durability and strength make them suitable for various yarn types, including those with more texture or tension.

addiTURBO Needles

addiNovel Straight Needles

addi DPNs

Darning Needles & Tapestry Needles

You will also need some darning or tapestry needles to finish your knitting projects. These needles let you weave in (sew in) your loose ends. Choose a blunt-tipped needle with an eye large enough for your yarn.

Darning Needles

Knitting Notebooks

A good knitting journal not only allows you to keep track of your knitting projects and patterns, but also inspires you to keep knitting beautiful things.

Knitting Journal

Storage

Clear Cereal Boxes

Plastic cereal storage boxes? Surprisingly perfect for knitting projects! These clear, versatile containers aren’t just for breakfast. They’re fantastic for organizing yarn, needles, and works in progress. With their see-through design, it’s easy to spot what’s inside, keeping your projects tidy and accessible. Plus, they’re stackable, compact, and easy to toss in your travel bag.

Yarn Storage Ideas from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Storage Boxes

In Search of Chunky And Bulky Yarn Suggestions

Are you a fan of chunky and bulky yarn for your knitting projects? I’m on the lookout for yarn available in the US. If you have any favorites or recommendations for chunky or bulky yarn that you absolutely love working with, please share them in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear your top picks!

July 13, 2023July 13, 2023

Beginner Knitting Patterns

Knitting patterns with only knits and purls by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Knitting Patterns with only Knit and Purl Stitches

Once you master knits and purls, you’ll be able to start making simple beginner knitting patterns. Beginning knitters can easily try making Garter Stitch, Stockinette Stitch, Seed Stitch, and Rib Stitch, because they are all made with only knit and purl stitches.

Garter Stitch

Garter stitch is a knitting pattern that is composed of all knit stitches. When knitting a regular flat piece, you will knit all the stitches in one row, turn, then knit all the stitches in the next row, turn, and repeat. This creates a ribbed fabric that looks the same on both sides.

Garter stitch has a very simple abbreviation: “k” every row.

Practice the garter stitch with my free Beginner Knit Scarf Pattern.

Stockinette Stitch

Stockinette Stitch is one of the most widely used knitting patterns, which has smooth “knit side” and a bumpy “purl side.”

When knitting a flat piece in Stockinette Stitch, you cast on an even number of stitches, knit one row, turn your work, then purl one row and continue alternating knit and purl rows.

Stockinette is usually abbreviated in this way: c/o even number of stitches. *k 1 row, p 1 row.*

Stockinette Stitch is used in the “Basic Washcloth and Face Scrubby” patterns, found in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection.

Knitting patterns with only knits and purls, stockinette stitch basic washcloths, by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Purl Rib Stitch

Knitting patterns with only knits and purls, rib stitch, by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, purl rib is a frequently used stitch for ribbed borders on clothing like hats, mittens, and sweaters. To knit this type of ribbing, cast on an even number of stitches. *Knit, purl* repeat for one row. Turn, and repeat the same row. You will be knitting into the knit stitches and purling into the purl stitches of the row below.

Abbreviated, a rib pattern will often read: c/o even number of stitches. *k, p* every row.

Try my free Ribbed Scarf pattern for practice on this stitch.

Learn to knit an easy Ribbed Scarf with this free knitting pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsandPixels.

Seed Stitch

You can knit a more elaborate texture using the Seed Stitch. Although it looks more difficult, simply alternate knit and purl stitches, much like a Knit, Purl Rib. Instead of stacking the knits and the purls in columns, however, in Seed Stitch you purl into the knit stitches and knit into the purl stitches. Both sides of the work will look the same.

To make the Seed Stitch, cast on an even number of stitches. Knit one stitch, purl one stitch, then repeat for one row or round. At the next row or round, purl one stitch, knit one stitch, then repeat until the end of the row or round. Repeat these two rows until you are finished.

The abbreviated version of this would read: c/o even number of stitches. *k, p* one row, turn, *p, k* one row. Repeat.

Try my free Seed Stitch Washcloth pattern for practice on this stitch.

After you understand these basic patterns, you can make lot of different fabrics with the same ball of yarn.

It is a great time to start exploring fun beginner patterns and learning new skills. My beginner knitting patterns use the stitches above to make your own cozy accessories.

Knitting Patterns using only Knits and Purls

More Knitting Patterns

See my entire pattern collection here.

I’ve also started a Pinterest collection of my favorite knitting patterns from my site and from other great knitting designers around the web. Look there for more great knitting ideas.

Up Next

The many sections and abbreviations in a knitting pattern can be intimidating. Learn how to read a knitting pattern in the next lesson.

Learn to read knitting patterns with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

December 7, 2022September 5, 2023

Customize Knits

Learn to customize your knitwear by adding pom-poms, buttons, and other decorations in this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Minimalist knitting patterns are simple to knit and you can make them over and over again. But your plain knitwear does not have to stay plain. Try to customize knits to fit your personal style. You can take any simple pattern and spice it up by adding decorations or changing the yarn design.

Customize Your Knitting

Once you have learned to knit the basic patterns, you may want to find a way to make simple designs a little more unique. Choosing a colorful, variegated yarn is a great way to spice things up. Try a new material, like wool, alpaca, or silk.

Add pom-poms, tassels, bows, or faux flowers. If you are familiar with embroidery, stitch embroidered embellishments onto your knitwear using your darning needle and yarn.

Substitute Yarn

You can alter the look of a knitted item dramatically just by changing the recommended yarn. Experiment with both color and yarn material to create your own, one-of-a-kind knit. The most important thing to keep in mind when substituting yarn, however, is to choose yarn that is the same weight as the recommended yarn. When working from this book, make sure you select a “worsted weight” yarn.

You can also try working with different yarn materials. Each type of fiber that is spun into yarn has its own unique look and feel, so changing the yarn material can change the texture of your knit pieces. When substituting yarn, choose materials that are similar to your starting yarn. For example, wool and alpaca make excellent substitutes for acrylic yarn; they are soft, stretchy, and warm. Try a bamboo-based yarn instead of cotton, since it is absorbent and holds its shape.

Explore the wide array of colors and try a few of your favorites. Yarn-makers offer solid color yarns in every shade of the rainbow. Or, add pattern and depth to your knitting by working with a multicolored or ‘”variegated” yarn. Skeins of variegated yarn are dyed with different sections of coordinated colors; they allow you to knit in multiple colors without switching balls of yarn. Some variegated yarn is even made to be “self-striping;” it is dyed in sections that create the illusion of separately knit color stripes.

Add Decorations and Embellishments

Let your imagination run wild when it comes to decorating your finished knits. Handmake or purchase fun accents to compliment your knitwear. To any simple knit, consider adding:

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Find Simple Patterns

Simple knitting patterns by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

You can customize any of my simple knitting patterns using these ideas. Changing the yarn color, material, or decorating hats, gloves, headbands, and legwarmers makes these classic knits unique.

Find the patterns here.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

March 30, 2022September 5, 2023

One-Size-Fits-Most Ribbed Hat Free Knitting Pattern

Ribbed Hat

To make this ribbed hat, you will work in a simple knit, purl pattern. This will create a stretchy ribbing, which allows the hat to fit most head sizes from children through adults. Working from the bottom of the hat, upward, you will knit a long tube before adding decreases to close the top of the hat. Folding the brim will not only help it fit most heads properly, but will also add an extra layer of warmth around the ears.

Using the suggested acrylic yarn will give you a soft, solid-colored hat. Try experimenting with yarn colors, textures, and materials to make this hat more unique. Be sure you choose worsted weight yarn and check your gauge before substituting materials.

The purple hat pictured here was made by substituting Malabrigo Rios merino wool yarn in the color “Lotus.” (Amazon affiliate link.)

About This Free Ribbed Hat Knitting Pattern

This simple ribbed hat is an easy-level knitting pattern. You will need to know how to make a long-tail cast on, knit, purl, decrease, and draw yarn thru the remaining stitches. If you are not familiar with these skills, find quick, free lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide.

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:
Double Point Needles (DPNs)
7-inch (18 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) DPNs (or size needed to obtain gauge)

And Circular Needles (optional)
16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:

One 315-yard (6 ounce) skein of worsted weight yarn* (shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn), in your choice of color.

one hat uses about one hat uses about 157.5 yards (3 oz.)

*Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “Pagoda.” Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

20 stitches x 28 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 5 (3.75 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

p = purl

** = repeat the pattern between the asterisks

ssk = slip, slip, knit

Instructions: One-Size-Fits-Most Ribbed Hat

(Fits most children, teens, and adults or 18-inch to 25-inch head circumference)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round.For Double Point Needles, follow DPNinstructions written in italics. For circular needles, follow instructions written in bold. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

[Using No. 5 DPNs or circular needles] Row 1: Cast on 88 stitches. Divide onto 3 DPNs (30 on 1^st, 28 on 2^nd, and 30 on 3^rd DPN). Or place all cast on stitches onto circular needles. (88 stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and *k, p* x 44. (88 stitches)

Rows 3 – 75: *k, p* x 44. (88 stitches) {Work should measure 11 inches at this point.}

{Begin decreases.} Row 76: ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p. (80 stitches)

Row 77: ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4), ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4), ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4), ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4). (72 stitches)

Row 78: ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p. (64 stitches)

Row 79: ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3), ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3), ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3), ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3). (56 stitches)

[Switch to No. 5 DPNs] Row 80: ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p. (48 stitches)

Row 81: ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2), ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2), ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2), ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2). (40 stitches)

Row 82: *ssk, k, p, k, ssk, p, k, p* x 4. (32 stitches)

Row 83: *ssk, p, k, ssk, k, p* x 4. (24 stitches)

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With darning needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 24 stitches. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Print the Free Ribbed Hat Knitting Pattern

Printable Ribbed Hat Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Find More Knitting Patterns

If you like this, check out the other knitting patterns I’ve written. They’re all gathered on one page, which you can find here.

Find all of the knitting patterns by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

February 23, 2022September 5, 2023

Basic Pillow Cover Free Knitting Pattern

Learn to knit a pillowcase with this free basic pillow cover knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Basic Pillow Covers

This pattern will show you how to make simple pillow covers by knitting in the round on circular needles. Using only the knit stitch creates a smooth, stockinette stitch pattern. The top and bottom edges of stockinette that has been knit in the round will naturally curl. When you sew the edges of the pillow together, the curl adds a decorative touch to these basic pillowcase.

You can sew the edges with a simple “running stitch” and a strand of yarn in the same color. Or try using a contrasting yarn color or a fancy ribbon to make your pillows more unique. Once you are finished, you can leave the pillows plain for a minimalist look. Or decorate your pillow cover with embroidery, faux flowers, or applique patches.

About This Free Pillow Cover Knitting Pattern

This simple pillow cover is an easy-level knitting pattern. You will need to know how to make a long-tail cast on, make a knit stitch, work in the round on circular needles, and bind off in the round. If you are not familiar with these skills, find quick, free lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide.

Knit Along with Me

In this video, I will show you how to make this knit pillow from start to finish. You can follow along using the knitting pattern below.

Basic Pillow Cover Knitting Pattern

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:

Extra-Short Circular Needles (for size mini)
12-inch (30 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Short Circular Needles (for size small)
16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Or Long Circular Needles (for sizes medium and large)
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:
One or two 315-yard (6 ounce) skeins of worsted weight yarn* (shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn), in your choice of color.

Mini size uses about 52.5 yards (1 oz)
Small size uses about 204.75 yards (3.9 oz.)
Medium size uses about 315 yards (6 oz.)
Large size uses about 388.5 yards (7.4 oz.)

*Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “Pagoda,” “Robins Egg,” “Charcoal Heather,” and “Orchid.” Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Pillow Insert:

One square pillow-insert in the correct size.

Mini size requires a 5-inch x 5-inch (12.7 cm) pillow
Small size requires a 12-inch x 12-inch (30.48 cm) pillow
Medium size requires a 16-inch x 16-inch (40.64 cm) pillow
Large size requires an 18-inch x 18-inch (45.72 cm) pillow

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

18 stitches x 24 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 8 (5.0 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

Instructions: Mini Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 5-inch x 5-inch pillows; measures 6 inches x 10 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with extra-short (12-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 40 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 40. (40 stitches)

Rows 3 – 46: k 40. (40 stitches) {Work should measure 10 inches at this point.}

Row 47: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert a 5-inch by 5-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about two feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

Instructions: Small Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 12-inch x 12-inch pillows; measures 13 inches x 17 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with short (16-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 86 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 86. (86 stitches)

Rows 3 – 79: k 86. (86 stitches) {Work should measure 17 inches at this point.}

Row 80: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert a 12-inch by 12-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about four feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

Instructions: Medium Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 16-inch x 16-inch pillows; measures 17 inches x 21 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with long (36-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 112 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 112. (112 stitches)

Rows 3 – 97: k 112. (112 stitches) {Work should measure 21 inches at this point.}

Row 98: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert a 16-inch by 16-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about four feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

Instructions: Large Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 18-inch x 18-inch pillows; measures 19 inches x 23 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Row 1: Cast on 126 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 126. (126 stitches)

Rows 3 – 106: k 126. (126 stitches) {Work should measure 23 inches at this point.}

Row 107: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert an 18-inch by 18-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about four feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

Print the Free Basic Pillow Cover Pattern

Printable Basic Pillow Cover Knitting Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Find More Knitting Patterns

If you like this, check out the other knitting patterns I’ve written. They’re all gathered on one page, which you can find here.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

February 12, 2022September 5, 2023

Ribbed Scarf Free Knitting Pattern

Ribbed Scarf

With this pattern, you can create a cozy ribbed scarf. Alternate knits and purls to make thick and stretchy scarf. As you knit, you will see that the columns of knits and purls line up with one another to highlight the “V” or heart-shaped knit stitches.

Try customizing this pattern by choosing a different yarn color or material. While this scarf looks great in any solid color, you can spice it up with variegated (multicolored) yarn. Self-striping yarn is another way to add visual interest to this scarf. Experiment with different types of yarn material as well; merino wool and alpaca are soft and cozy choices. Just be sure to choose worsted weight yarn when making substitutions.

About This Free Ribbed Scarf Knitting Pattern

This simple ribbed scarf is an easy-level knitting pattern. You will need to know how to make a long-tail cast on, knit, purl, and bind off. If you are not familiar with these skills, find quick, free lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide.

Learn to knit an easy knit, purl ribbed scarf with this free knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:
Long Circular Needles
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Or Straight Needles
9-inch (23 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) straight needles (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:

Two 315-yard (6 ounce) skeins of worsted weight yarn* (shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn), in your choice of color.

one standard scarf uses about 514.5 yards (9.8 oz.)
one extra-wide scarf uses about 624.75 yards (11.9 oz.)

*Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “Pagoda,” “Iris,” and “Black.” Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Tools:

A measuring tape and a darning needle.