Winter knitting and crochet projects
Deep winter is the season for the warmest knits. Here are free patterns for hands, heads and feet, and blankets to finish by the fire.
Updated
Thumb Gusset MittensWarm, well-fitting mittens knit in the round with a proper thumb gusset. Sized from one hand measurement.
Garter Earflap HatTwo garter earflaps knit first, then joined with cast-on sections into one round. Braided ties keep it on in the wind.
Rope Cable BeanieSix-stitch rope cables that run into the crown. The rib brim flows straight into the cable columns.
Everyday Ribbed-Brim BeanieA 2×2 rib brim, a stockinette body and an 8-point crown. Once you know this recipe, you can size a hat for anyone.
Peerie Diamond Colourwork HatSmall stranded diamond bands on a 6-stitch repeat. A gentle first colourwork project with short floats.
Chunky Cable CowlBig 8-stitch cables in super bulky yarn. Knits up in a couple of evenings.
Chunky Camel Stitch ScarfHdc worked into the third loop makes a knit-look ridge on the front. Super bulky yarn makes it fast.
Slouchy Leg WarmersRib cuffs, a roomy stockinette body and just enough slouch. Two evenly-spaced rounds do all the shaping.
Worsted Ribbed Boot SocksThick house-and-boot socks in worsted: the same heel-flap recipe at a quick gauge, with a ribbed instep.
Garter Rectangle SlippersEach slipper is one garter rectangle, folded and seamed. If you can knit a scarf, you can make these.
Toe-Up Crochet SlippersA sc toe cup, a short tube for the foot, then flat rows folded into the heel. Warm, quick and sized from the sock chart.
Hot Water Bottle CoverA seamless cosy knit from the base up, with a folded rib neck that keeps the stopper covered.
Circular Yoke SweaterBody and sleeves knit bottom-up, joined, then a round yoke shaped by three decrease rounds. The Increase & Decrease Evenly tool writes each one.
Rope Cable Panel ThrowRope cables separated by seed stitch columns. An heirloom look built from one 8-row repeat.
Waffle Stitch ThrowFront post stitches build a deep, squishy grid. Warm and heavy, and very satisfying to work.
Round Pet BedA flat hdc base and a rim that folds over into a stuffed bolster. Machine-washable if you pick the right yarn.Tips for winter making
- Wool is warmest, even when damp. For hats and mittens, choose wool or a wool blend over acrylic.
- Make mittens a little long in the cuff so no wrist shows between glove and sleeve.
- Bulky yarn is quick: a super-bulky cowl or scarf can be done in a weekend.
Other seasons
Common questions
Are these winter patterns free?
Yes. Every pattern on Yarn & Row is free to make for yourself or to give. Each one shows the maths, so you can make it in your size, with your yarn and your gauge.
How long do these projects take?
Each card shows a typical time, from one evening to several weeks. Times are for a comfortable pace; the row counter keeps your place however long you take.