DIY Knit: Cozy Independence in Every Stitch
Welcome to the knitting nook of PurlsAndPixels. This is where warm wool, simple living, and a strong streak of cozy independence meet. Whether you are picking up needles for the first time or you have been stitching through many seasons, this hub is here to make your knitting feel calm, practical, joyful, and a little cheeky. You will find knitting lessons and easy knitting patterns for beginners and knitters of all skill levels.
Here, you can:
- Learn the basics with free beginner-friendly knitting lessons.
- Explore easy free patterns designed for real people and real homes.
- Shop PDF patterns, bundles, and books that simplify your crafting life.
- Wander through DIY projects inspired by nature, seasons, and handmade living.
Cozy Independence: a handmade life for real people.
How to Use This Page
Think of this as your knitting trail map.
- Brand new. Start with knitting lessons and a simple pattern.
- Comfortable with basics. Pick a pattern and consider the PDF upgrade.
- Want everything in one place. Explore the books.
- Browsing for inspiration. Wander through the seasonal DIYs.
You are welcome here. Slow down. Breathe. Make something soft. Your handmade life begins one stitch at a time.
Start Here: Learn to Knit
Knitting is slow, steady rhythm. Loops, movement, breath. These lessons will help you settle in, relax your shoulders, and learn in a way that feels supportive and approachable.
- Gather Your Supplies
Start simple. Choose yarn you like, needles that feel good in your hands, and tools that will not clutter your life.
➡️ Beginner Knitting Materials - Make Your First Stitches
A slipknot, a cast on, and a moment to breathe. This is where your handmade journey begins.
➡️ Slipknot
➡️ Long Tail Cast On - Learn the Knit and Purl Stitches
Knit and purl are the pine and juniper of the knitting forest. Everything grows from here.
➡️ Knit Stitch
➡️ Purl Stitch - Follow the Full Lesson Series
Move through the lessons at your own pace. No rush and no pressure.
➡️ Learn to Knit
If you prefer everything in one place, my knitting books can guide you from your first stitch to your first project.
Find Every Knitting lesson, listed in order on my Learn to Knit Index Page.
Easy, Free Knitting Patterns for Beginners
Choosing a first project can be the hardest part. These beginner-friendly designs create a soft landing. Simple shapes. Clear instructions. Projects you can finish before your tea cools.
A few of my favorite easy knitting patterns for beginners:
- Garter Stitch Washcloth. Small, quick, and forgiving.
- Beginner Knit Scarf. Soft, simple, and confidence building.
- Two-Color Garter Stitch Washcloth. A gentle introduction to color changes.
- Chunky Knit Coaster. Fast, fun, and instantly useful.
- Coffee Cup Cozy. A tiny knit that warms your hands and your mornings.
- Chunky Knit Scarf. When you want something finished today.
Explore every free design:
➡️ All Free Knitting Patterns
Printable PDF Patterns and Cozy Bundles
When you want your knitting to feel organized and ready to go, printable PDFs make life easier. You can highlight rows, check off repeats, and tuck them into your project bag.
Inside the PDF shop, you will find:
- Minimalist patterns in multiple sizes
- Hats, scarves, mittens, blankets, and home goods
- Seasonal collections for fall, winter, and handmade gifting
Shop the full collection:
➡️Digital Knitting Patterns
Popular bundles:
- Beginner Pattern Bundle. Strong starter projects that build skill and calm.
- Fall Classics Bundle. Warm, earthy knits for cooler days.
- Washcloth Collections. Quick, useful practice pieces.
If you enjoy a free pattern, look for the PDF upgrade. Many include extra sizes, photos, and printable pages.
Seasonal and Nature Inspired DIY Knit Projects
When seasons shift or you want something festive, these projects bring a touch of whimsy to your handmade life.
- Chunky Ghost Hat. Soft, silly, and spooky.
- Mini Santa Hat Ornament. A tiny spark of joy for trees, mantles, or pet photos.
- Halloween Craft Roundup. Knit, sew, and craft your way into the season.
- Holiday Knit Decor. Simple handmade touches for a cozy home.
Explore my complete collection at my Knitting Patterns page.
There, you will find all of my free and deluxe patterns organized in one location.
Happy knitting!
Knitting Books by Liz Chandler
Love to learn at your own pace with a cup of something warm nearby? My books create a full, cozy path into knitting.
Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide
A five hundred+ page deep dive into knitting for real people. Step by step lessons, practical patterns, simple explanations, and variations that help you understand the reason behind each stitch.
Knitting the Simple Things
A pattern only book filled with clean, minimalist designs for everyday life. Perfect if you already know the basics and want patterns ready to go.
Your support through book purchases helps keep the free lessons and patterns available.
Join the Cozy Independence Email List
If you want calm inspiration delivered to your inbox, join the email list and receive the Free Knitting Starter Kit.
Inside, you receive:
- A printable beginner pattern
- A quick start stitch cheat sheet
- Matching video tutorials
It is the easiest way to begin or return to a handmade life.