Category: Knitting Patterns

This super-bulky knit placemat is intentionally designed as a first knitting project and has been used successfully by kids and adult beginners learning to knit. The pattern limits techniques to one stitch (garter stitch), uses a flat rectangular shape, and works with thick yarn so stitches are easy to see and common beginner mistakes are avoided. There is no shaping, no stitch pattern changes, and no decisions to make once you begin knitting.

This article explains how to knit a super-bulky placemat, with step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. You will knit a simple rectangle in garter stitch (knit every row), then bind off and weave in your ends to create a sturdy, usable placemat.

On this page: About · Materials · Gauge · Printable PDF · Instructions · Care · Sharing

About This Super-Bulky Knit Placemat

The super-bulky placemat is Project 2 in the guided kids’ lessons here at PurlsAndPixels.

This placemat is designed to feel simple and doable. You will repeat the knit stitch over and over, and the fabric will grow quickly because the yarn is thick. When you are done, you will have a sturdy placemat you can use at the table, for crafts, or as a cozy landing spot for snacks and hot cocoa.

This pattern is knit flat in garter stitch (knit every row). There is no shaping, no color changes, and no tricky steps. It is a great way to practice tension and learn how to make neat edges.

Materials

Knitting Needles

16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 13 (9 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn

Two 106-yard (6-ounce) skein of super-bulky (No. 6) yarn* (shown in Wool-Ease Thick and Quick by Lion Brand Yarn “Bluegrass”), in your choice of color).

• One placemat uses approximately 123.7 yards (7.0 oz. or 1.2 skeins)

*Weights estimated with Wool Ease Thick & Quick by Lion Brand Yarn; other yarn weights may vary.

Notions

• Measuring tape
• Darning needle
• Scissors

Gauge

10 stitches x 18 rows = 4 x 4 inches in Garter Stitch on No. 13 (9.0 mm) needles. Gauge is typically measured in stockinette stitch, but this project uses garter stitch throughout, so gauge is measured in garter stitch to reflect the finished fabric. Exact gauge is not critical for this project.

Abbreviations

k = knit

Skills used

This super-bulky knit placemat is a great first flat project because it is simple, fast, and easy to see as it grows.

To make the super-bulky knit placemat, you’ll only need to know how to:

• Cast on
• Knit stitch
• Bind off
• Weave in loose ends

If you need help, there are instructions and video tutorials here on PurlsAndPixels for every step you’ll take.

This placemat is knit in garter stitch, which means you will knit every stitch in every row. Repeating the same motion over a wide piece like this is a great way to build confidence and get comfortable with even tension across the row.

Try to keep your stitches snug, but not tight. They should slide easily on the needle so you can insert your needle into each loop without forcing it. This pattern is a simple place to practice finding that balance.

Want to knit along with me? I’ve linked a video lesson that shows the full project from cast on to finishing. 🧶

Prefer to knit offline?

This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.

• Includes complete, row-by-row instructions
• Easy to print or use on your tablet
• Supports my small business 💖

Download the Super-Bulky Placemat Pattern PDF – $9.99

Instructions: Super-Bulky Knit Placemat

(12 inches [30.48 cm] x 18 inches [45.72 cm] or desired length)

Use the long tail cast on. Knit flat, turning after each row.

Row 1: Cast on 30 stitches. (30 stitches) Turn.

Rows 2 – 84: k 30. (30 stitches) Turn. [Work should measure approximately 18 inches at this point.]

Row 85: Bind off loosely.

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Save or print this pattern

Get the PDF version of this Super-Bulky Placemat Knitting Pattern.

Care

If you use the materials called for in the pattern, your final product will be machine washable. To keep your placemats looking their best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate cycle in cold water. Lay flat to dry. 

🛁 Read more Knitwear Care Tips

Copyright, Sharing, and Selling Finished Items

©2026, Liz Chandler of 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.

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by Liz Chandler @PurlsandPixels

Looking for a fast and festive knit? The Chunky Ghost Hat Free Knitting Pattern is a cozy, one-hour project perfect for Halloween or chilly fall days. Made with super bulky yarn and big needles, this hat is soft, spooky, and surprisingly simple. Knit one while you settle in with your favorite scary movie and a warm drink.

One time, when I was little, my dad was put in charge of Halloween costumes. He showed up to the store late, and the only thing left were clown wigs. My brother and I were terrified for all the wrong reasons, but we wore them anyway. They were itchy, plasticky, and ridiculous. This hat is for anyone who’s been there: short on time but still determined to have some Halloween spirit. 👻

Prefer to knit offline? (Download the Printable Chunky Ghost Hat Knitting Pattern)

This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.

• Includes complete, row-by-row instructions
• Easy to print or use on your tablet
• Supports my small business 💖

Download the Chunky Ghost Hat PDF – $9.99

This chunky ghost hat has personality. Its wavy bottom edge looks like the fluttering feet of a friendly ghost, and the button eyes give it a playful face that says “boo.” It’s simple, forgiving, and perfect for beginners who want quick results without complicated stitches.

How this Chunky Ghost Hat Free Knitting Pattern is Made

This easy Ghost Hat is knit seamlessly in the round. You’ll use super bulky yarn and circular knitting needles to knit the hat from the bottom, up. When you’ve finished knitting, the hat brim will curl naturally. Just add three buttons (or felt circles) to make eyes and a little surprised mouth.

You will need to know how to:

• cast on,
• knit in the round,
• make a knit stitch,
• draw yarn tightly through remaining stitches,
• weave in loose ends on hat tops, and
• weave in the cast on tail for a round project.

Materials

Yarn

One 108-yard (3.5 ounce) skein of super bulky weight yarn* (shown in Bernat Softee Chunky yarn in the color “White”), in your choice of color.

• Baby size uses about 27.8 yards (0.9 ounces)
• One-Size-Fits-Most uses about 64.8 yards (2.1 ounces)

*Weights estimated with Bernat Softee Chunky yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch.

Needles

Short Circular Needles
• 16-inch (41cm) long US No. 13 (9.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Notions

• A stich marker
• A measuring tape
• A darning needle
• Two matching black buttons and one smaller button (for eyes and mouth)

Gauge

7 stitches and 12 rows in stockinette stitch = 4 inches by 4 inches square. Learn how to check your gauge in this free knitting lesson.

Abbreviations

• k = knit

Instructions: Baby Size Chunky Ghost Knit Hat        

(10.5-inch to 16-inch [26.67-cm to 40.64-cm] head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 20 stitches. (20 stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 20. (20 stitches)

Rows 3 – 21: k 20. (20 stitches) [Work should measure 6 inches at this point.]

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With a darning needle, draw yarn tightly through the remaining 20 stitches. Weave in ends.

On the body of the hat, arrange the two larger buttons to look like eyes and the small button to look like a mouth. Sew on with thread or yarn that matches the buttons. For baby size, try to use safety buttons, crochet black circles, or felt pieces. (Never let babies play with an item that has regular buttons; they could choke.)

Instructions: One-Size-Fits-Most Chunky Ghost Knit Hat     

(16-inch to 25-inch [40.64-cm to 63.5-cm] head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches. (32 stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 32. (32 stitches)

Rows 3 – 33: k 32. (32 stitches) [Work should measure 11 inches at this point.]

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With a darning needle, draw yarn tightly through the remaining 20 stitches. Weave in ends.

On the body of the hat, arrange the two larger buttons to look like eyes and the small button to look like a mouth. Sew on with thread or yarn that matches the buttons.

Printable Ghost Hat PDF Knitting Pattern

Care

If you use the materials called for in the Chunky Ghost Hat Free Knitting Pattern, your final product will be machine washable. To keep your Ghost Hat looking its best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate cycle in cold water. You may tumble dry on low heat or lay flat to dry.

🛁 Read more Knitwear Care Tips

©2025, Liz Chandler of 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.

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🍬 Candy Pillow Toy Knitting Pattern

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❄️ Blue Snowflake Mitten Knitting Pattern

🧺 All Knitting Patterns from Liz @PurlsAndPixels: Learn to Knit All the Things

Read More

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Join me on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram! And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

This super-bulky candy toy pillow is intentionally designed as a final confidence-building project for beginner knitters and has been used successfully by kids and adult beginners completing their first series of knitting projects. The pattern limits techniques to the knit stitch, uses simple tube construction worked in the round, and works with thick yarn so stitches remain easy to see while reinforcing consistency over a longer piece. There is no purling, no stitch pattern changes, and no shaping during the main body of the project.

This article explains how to knit a super-bulky candy-shaped toy pillow, with step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. You will knit a tube in the round using only the knit stitch, stuff the pillow, and tie the ends closed to create a soft, playful toy pillow that feels substantial and rewarding to finish.

On this page: About · Materials · Gauge · Printable PDF · Instructions · Care · Sharing

About This Super-Bulky Candy Pillow Toy

This toy is designed to feel simple and doable. The tube grows quickly, the stitches are easy to see, and the finishing steps are straightforward. When you are done, you will have a soft candy-shaped pillow that can be used for pretend play, room decor, or a silly gift.

This pattern is knit in the round using only the knit stitch. There is no sewing. You will close the ends by tying them with yarn, then fluff the center into shape.

Materials

Knitting Needles

16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 13 (9 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn

One 106-yard (6-ounce) skein of super-bulky (No. 6) yarn* (shown here in Wool-Ease Thick and Quick by Lion Brand Yarn “Hudson Bay” and “Bluegrass“), in your choice of color).

• One pillow toy uses about 106 yards (6 ounces)

*Weights estimated with Wool Ease Thick & Quick by Lion Brand Yarn; other yarn weights may vary.

Stuffing

A soft fiber toy/pillow filling like PolyFil.

Notions

• Stitch Marker
• Measuring tape
• Darning needle
• Scissors

Gauge

10 stitches x 18 rows = 4 x 4 inches in garter stitch on No. 13 (9.0 mm) needles.
Gauge is typically measured in stockinette stitch, and because this toy is worked in the round using only the knit stitch, the finished fabric is stockinette. However, gauge is measured in garter stich here for consistency with the other kids’ knitting patterns. Exact gauge is not critical for this project.

Abbreviations

k = knit

Skills Used

This super-bulky candy pillow toy is a great early project because it is simple, fast, and easy to finish.

To make the super-bulky candy pillow toy, you’ll only need to know how to

If you need help, there are instructions and video tutorials here on PurlsAndPixels for every step you’ll take:

• Cast on
• Work in the round on circular needles
• Knit stitch
• Bind off in the round
• Weave in loose ends
• Stuff the Toy (watch the video below)

This toy is knit in the round using only the knit stitch. Repeating the same motion over a short project like this is a great way to build confidence and get comfortable with tension.

Try to keep your stitches snug, but not tight. They should slide easily on the needle so you can insert your needle into each loop without forcing it. This pattern is a simple place to practice finding that balance.

Want to knit along with me? I’ve linked a video lesson on this page that shows the full project from cast on to finishing. 🧶

Prefer to knit offline?

This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.

• Includes complete, row-by-row instructions
• Easy to print or use on your tablet
• Supports my small business 💖

Download the Candy Pillow Toy Pattern PDF – $9.99

Instructions: Super-Bulky Knit Candy Pillow Toy

(When complete, the toy will be about 12 inches long x 6 inches tall x 6 inches wide.)

Knit the Toy:

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches. (32stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 32. (32stitches)

Rows 3 – 47: k 32. (32stitches) [Work should measure 17inches at this point.]

Row 48: Bind off loosely. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Stuff the Toy:

(video instructions)

Clip two 17-inch-long pieces of yarn from the ball.

Measure about 4 inches from the end of the work, then tie up one end of your pillow with one of the yarn pieces.

Put stuffing inside the knitted tube and fluff to make a round center.

Using the second piece of yarn, tie the remaining open end closed about 4 inches from the edge of the work.

Fluff your pillow into shape and you are all finished!

Save or print this pattern

Get the PDF version of this Candy Pillow Toy Knitting Pattern.

Care

Care depends on your yarn and stuffing. Most super-bulky acrylic yarns can be spot cleaned or gently hand washed and laid flat to dry. If this is a toy for a child, choose a washable yarn and follow the yarn label instructions.

🛁Read more Knitwear Care Tips

Copyright, Sharing, and Selling Finished Items

©2025, Liz Chandler of 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.

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🧶 Beginner Super-Bulky Knit Coaster – Free Knitting Pattern

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🍽️ Super-Bulky Knit Placemat – Free Knitting Pattern

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🧺 All Knitting Patterns

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

This super-bulky knit coaster is intentionally designed as a first knitting project and has been used successfully by kids and adult beginners learning to knit. The pattern limits techniques to one stitch (the knit stitch), uses a flat square shape, and works with thick, easy-to-see yarn so beginners can practice tension and stitch counting without getting overwhelmed. There is no shaping, no stitch pattern changes, and no decisions to make once you begin knitting.

This article explains how to knit a super-bulky coaster, with step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. You will knit a small flat piece using only the knit stitch, then bind off and weave in your ends to create a finished coaster you can use every day.

On this page: About · Materials · Gauge · Printable PDF · Instructions · Care · Sharing

About This Beginner Super-Bulky Knit Coaster

This simple knit coaster is intentionally small, forgiving, and repetitive. As Project 1 in my Kids’ Knitting Guide, the beginner super-bulky knit coaster introduces how knitting feels in your hands and how stitches stack row by row, without asking beginners to switch stitches or manage complicated shaping.

Using super bulky yarn allows new knitters to see each stitch clearly and finish projects quickly. The goal is not perfection, but comfort and familiarity with the knitting process.

Materials

Knitting Needles

• 16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 13 (9 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn

One 106-yard (6-ounce) skein of super-bulky (No. 6) yarn* (shown in Wool-Ease Thick and Quick by Lion Brand Yarn “Bluegrass”), in your choice of color).

• One coaster uses approximately 10.6 yards (0.6 oz.)

*Weights estimated with Wool Ease Thick & Quick by Lion Brand Yarn; other yarn weights may vary.

Notions

• Measuring tape
• Darning needle
• Scissors

Gauge

10 stitches x 18 rows = 4 x 4 inches in Garter Stitch on No. 13 (9.0 mm) needles. Gauge is typically measured in stockinette stitch, but this project uses garter stitch throughout, so gauge is measured in garter stitch to reflect the finished fabric. Exact gauge is not critical for this project. And, honestly, if you’re a brand new beginner, don’t worry about it. Just start following the pattern.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

Skills Used

This super bulky knit coaster is a great first knitting project because it’s simple, fast, and easy to finish in one sitting. To make the super bulky knit coaster, you’ll only need to know how to:

• cast-on,
• make the knit stitch,
• bind off, and
• weave in loose ends on flat knits.

This coaster is worked in garter stitch, which means every row is made using the knit stitch. Repeating the same stitch over a short project like this is a great way to practice and build confidence.

As you knit, try to keep your stitches even on the needles. They should be snug, but not tight. The stitches should slide easily so you can insert your needle into each loop without forcing it. Finding that balance takes practice, and this small project makes it easier to learn.

Want to knit along with me? I’ve made a video lesson that shows how to knit this coaster from cast on to bind off. Visit the How to Knit a Coaster lesson for step-by-step help. 🧶

Prefer to knit offline?

This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.

• Includes materials list and complete knitting instructions
• Easy to print or use on your tablet
• Supports my small business 💖

Download the Beginner Coaster Pattern PDF – $2.99

Instructions: Beginner Super-Bulky Knit Coaster

(4 inches [10.16 cm] x 4 inches [10.16 cm])

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit flat, turning after each row.

Row 1: Cast on 10 stitches. (10 stitches) Turn.

Rows 2 – 18: k 10. (10 stitches) Turn.

Row 19: Bind off loosely.

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Save or print this pattern

Get the PDF version of this Beginner Super-Bulky Coaster Knitting Pattern.

Care

If you use the materials called for in the pattern, your final product will be machine washable. To keep your coasters looking their best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate cycle in cold water. Lay flat to dry. 

🛁Read more Knitwear Care Tips

Copyright, Sharing, and Selling Finished Items

©2025, Liz Chandler of 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.

More Knitting Patterns You’ll Love

🧶 Next: Beginner Super-Bulky Knit Placemat- Free Knitting Pattern

🧺 All Knitting Patterns

Don’t Miss a Stitch 💌

Love cozy knitting projects? Follow along on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram,
or join the newsletter for more free patterns and gentle knitting tips.