Get Cozy with This Free Knitted Shawl Pattern

December 12, 2016 by FaveCrafts

We had our first snow this past week. Our cool fall weather dipped below freezing, and we were hit with 6.4″ of heaping snow in one afternoon. With the temperature staying close to the freezing point each day since, that snow is here to stay. Now that winter has finally arrived, it’s time to bust out our favorite seasonal items. We’ll get that fireplace crackling and that hot cocoa made. We’ll bake some delicious cookies and rest on the couch while our favorite winter movies play. For the next few months, we’ll be hibernating indoors, which gives us plenty of time to whip up this fantastic free knitted shawl pattern.

This free knitted shawl pattern is a great project for keeping warm this winter. The yarn is so irresistibly soft and comfortable that you’ll want to drape it around you whenever you can. It’s perfect for reading, watching movies, or curling up with a mug of cocoa on the couch. Even better, this free knitted shawl pattern is easy to make, so you’ll have your new favorite winter craft done up in no time!

You’ll Love This Free Knitted Shawl Pattern

By Christine Chen for redheart.com

MATERIALS

RED HEART® Strata™: 7 balls 2405 grey bulky yarn
Susan Bates® Knitting Needles: 8mm [US 11]
Yarn needle

GAUGE: 13 sts = 4″ [10 cm]; 16 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in Stockinette stitch.

Finished Size: Shawl measures 17″ [43 cm] wide x 72″ [183 cm] long.

DIRECTIONS

Note: Slip first st purlwise and knit last st through back loop of every row for a more finished looking edge.

Cast on 58 sts. Knit 5 rows.

Row 1 (Right Side): Knit.

Row 2: Purl.

Rows 3-12: Repeat rows 1-2.

Row 13: Knit.

Row 14: [K1, slip 1 purlwise with yarn in back] to last 2 sts, k2.

Row 15: Knit.

Row 16: K2, [slip 1 purlwise with yarn in back, k1] to end of row.

Rows 17-40: Repeat rows 13-16. Repeat rows 1-40 for nine more times, then rows 1-12 once. Knit 6 rows. Bind off.

FINISHING

Weave in ends.

ABBREVIATIONS

cm = centimeters; k = knit; mm = millimeters; st(s) = stitch(es); [ ] = work directions in brackets the number of times specified.

Looking for more amazing knitting patterns that will keep you cozy this winter? Check out this Extra Chunky Gratitude Blanket.

What are some of your favorite knitting patterns for winter?

26 DIY Rugs You’re Going to Love

August 29, 2016 by FaveCrafts

There’s nothing quite like creating your very own DIY rug to fill your heart with song…or is that just me? Seriously, if you’re on the hunt for free crochet patterns for rugs or any other rug-related lore, you’ve come to the right place. It turns out that there’s always an excuse to make your own rug because there are so many places to put one in your home!

Below you’ll get ideas for every location in your house that could possibly do with a mat. Feel free to mix and match – these rugs aren’t wedded to one particular room in the house, so get creative with it! You’re pretty much guaranteed to have a blast with these groovy homemade rug ideas. Once you start, it might be very hard to stop!

Entryway DIY Rugs

Bubble and Bulge Rug – Cute, cute, cute!
Modern Outdoor Rug
Crochet Rug Boho Pattern
Simple Stripe Rug
Scrap Squares Rug
DIY Outdoor Rug with Rope – Super easy!

Kitchen and Dining Room DIY Rugs

Easy Hexagon Rug
Crochet Hexagon Rug – This would look awesome in your living room, too!
West Elm-Inspired Painted Rug
Neon Jersey Rug
Easy Mandala Crochet Rug – Really, this is too pretty to resist.
How to Crochet a Round Rug

Bathroom DIY Rugs

Brilliant DIY Rag Rug
Spa Bath Mat
Old Fashioned Oval Rug – Just like at Grandma’s house!
Infinity Rug
Beautiful Easy Crochet Spa Rug – You will fall in love with this crochet rug!
Quick Bath Mat Upcycle

Accent DIY Rugs

Bold and Beautiful Accent Rug
Quilt Strip Accent Rug
Lacy Doily T Shirt Yarn Rug
Red Christmas Crochet Rug – Still great for all year round, too.
Striped Rug
Nautical Waves Rug – Easy to make!
Easy Geometric DIY Rug

DIY Rugs for Kids and Pets

Checkerboard Game Carpet
Rabbit DIY Rug
Shaggy Dog Rug – I’m totally making this for my fuzzy friend.
Playroom Rug
Faux Sheepskin DIY Rug – Everyone will love this!

Don’t stop there! You’ll find more wonderful DIY home decor ideas in Best Blogger Craft Ideas 2016: DIY Home Decor, Paper Craft Ideas, Sewing Projects, and Unique DIY Crafts free eBook

What’s the best home decor project you’ve ever made?

14 Free Scarf Knitting Patterns That Will Steal Your Heart

February 11, 2016 by FaveCrafts

When the winter winds become so bitterly cold that you can’t bear to be outside, what do you do? Hiding under the blankets and staying in your bed until spring is certainly an appealing option, but not a very realistic one.

Here at FaveCrafts, we say fight the cold with needles! Knitting needles, that is. There’s nothing better to protect yourself from the cold than a lovely, warm, knitted accessory. This week, we’re really excited about all the warm and adorable free scarf knitting patterns that we’ve found. Who can say no to such cute and comfy pieces?

This collection of free scarf knitting patterns has every type of scarf under the sun. From cable knits and cowls to openweave scarves and winter sets, we’ve got you covered. We’ve even gone so far as to find the right scarves for everyone in your life. Whether you’re knitting for yourself, for your husband, or for the kids, we’ve got just the pattern for you. So pick up those needles and get to work!

Knit Scarf Patterns for Women

Stay warm and stylish with these free scarf knitting patterns!

Knit Two Hours or Less Scarf (shown)

Vanilla Meringue Cowl

Glitter Openweave Scarf

Sunset Scarf Knitting Pattern

Mountain Mist Scarf

Find more knit scarf patterns for women here!

Knit Scarf Patterns for Men

Keep the men in your life all warm and cozy with these free scarf knitting patterns!

Men’s Winter Scarf and Hat (shown)

Luxurious Alpaca Scarf

Chevron Scarf

Gray Knit Scarf Set

Find more knit scarf patterns for men here!

Knit Scarf Patterns for Kids

Keep your kiddies all bundled up with these cute free scarf knitting patterns!

Diagonal Hat and Scarf Knitting Pattern (shown)

Ribbed Hat and Scarf

Colorful Winter Set

Bobble Scarf and Hat

30 Minute Arm Knitted Scarf

Find more knit scarf patterns for kids here!

Comment below and let us know, what type of scarf will you be knitting?

22 Easy Knitting Patterns for Beginners

January 18, 2016 by AllFreeKnitting

Learning to knit can be tough, so it’s best to start out with some easy knitting projects. All the better if those easy projects work up super quickly so that you don’t get bored or frustrated with your current project and stop knitting altogether! These free knitting patterns are some of our quickest and easiest knitting patterns, so they’re ideal for anyone who is just learning to knit or anyone who is a more advanced knitter but wants a quick, mindless pattern.

Easy Scarf Knitting Patterns

Scarf knitting patterns are a great place to start if you are new to knitting because they work up relatively quickly and are simple to make. These scarf, cowl, and infinity scarf patterns are all perfect for beginners, casual knitters, or anyone who is just looking for a quick knit.

Easy Hat Knitting Patterns

Any beginning knitter needs a quick and easy hat knitting pattern in their arsenal. These hats are all super simple to make and won’t eat up a lot of your time, so you can be wearing a super stylish hat in no time!

Miscellaneous Free Knitting Patterns

Although scarves and hats can be lots of fun to make, every knitter knows that there’s only so many scarves and hats one can have in their wardrobe. Once you’ve got a ridiculous amount of scarves and hats, to the point where you could never even possibly wear them all in a winter, you know it’s time to venture into other arenas of knitting. Here are some of our favorite easy knitting patterns that cover everything from baby booties to washcloths. These patterns are all still super easy and lightning fast.

What’s your favorite type of project to knit?

Free Knitting Patterns for Fall

July 31, 2015 by FaveCrafts

Okay, so it’s a little difficult to imagine wearing, let alone knitting, a sweater, scarf, shawl, or gloves. Especially when it is nearly July and the temperatures are soaring quickly into the 90’s. But all those things take time to make people! Before you know it, school is going to be starting and the leaves will be turning colors, and then panic mode will set in because you didn’t get a head start. Never fear, though, I compiled the biggest list of free knitting patterns for fall. You’re going to feel so cozy in these knit sweaters, homemade knit scarves, and fuzzy mittens.

Warm, homemade sweaters are going to be your favorite thing to make this summer because by the time you get done with all these easy sweater patterns, it will be time to wear them! All of your friends and family will be begging you to make them one of the fun and stylish knits for the fall instead of spending money at the store. You can get unique colors and patterns that match your personality and all of your winter wear. I don’t know about you, but I hate mismatched coats and accessories. I think the worst that has ever happened is a purple jacket with a red and black scarf, and green gloves. Yeah. Nothing matched. I really wish I had this awesome list of fall and winter knitting patterns, so I could have been strutting around with some stylish warmth.

So don’t make the same mistake as me. You have plenty of time before the season starts to change, but there are so many options that you won’t know where to begin. Let me help you. I would start with simple scarf patterns. In my mind, they are the fastest to get done. So if you’re knitting for more than just yourself, then these are the first and easiest thing to get done. Next, I would knit an easy hat for winter. That way, you get use out of it for both seasons, and they will look so cute with everything you wear!

So get your needles ready for this fall knitting spree because you’re going to need to start early for all these free knitting patterns!

Free Knitting Patterns for Fall

25 Free Knit Scarf Patterns for Fall

These super easy knit scarves are a great way to start your fall knitting early because everyone is going to want one of these fancy scarves this season!

Comfy and Cozy Knitted Sweater Patterns

These sweater patterns have options for both men and women.

How Knit Sweater Top Any Season

In case you’re wanting some beginner sweater patterns.

Knit Mittens

Because mittens. Mittens are cute for adults too.

Prayer Shawl Patterns for Knitting

Cuddle with these warm shawls without being swamped in a giant throw blanket. Drape these over your shoulders and relax in the autumn evening.

48 Knit Hat Patterns for Winter

There are so many different styles and shapes of hats that you will have to try them all.

What is your favorite fall accessory?

Link Love: Easy Shawl Patterns

June 28, 2015 by FaveCrafts

Calling this season “summer” would not suffice. Monsoon season is a lot more accurate. After the intense downpour this morning, the wet mornings, and wet nights for the past two months, I’m ready for some sun. But in the meantime, sweatshirts, coats, and homemade shawls are a must for those summer nights. It’s cool enough out that you need something to keep warm, but then again, it’s warm enough that you don’t want to pull out the fleece. Shawls are the perfect solution. They can be light-weight enough that you won’t feel suffocated; at the same time, they are warm enough to protect you from a cool breeze. Knit and crochet shawl patterns are a warm and fashionable way to achieve both warmth and lightness.

Link Love: Easy Shawl Patterns

These easy shawl patterns are some great ways to get creative with your shawl. Whether you like to crochet or to knit, there is no competition as to which is better for these free crochet and free knitting patterns. Now, don’t you start thinking that you are “too-young” for a shawl or you “can’t use them anywhere else.” This is where you are very deceived! Instead of using a thick yarn, you can use a thinner yarn to make a lace-looking pattern and you can wear it out to a nice dinner or event to cover your shoulders. Use a wool yarn to make a thick, giant shawl for cozy winter evenings or as a holiday gift.

Free Crochet Shawl Patterns

A Crochet Shawl

Simple One Skein Wrap

Elegant Crochet Flower Shawl

Free Knit Shawl Patterns

Chunky Long Wrap

Knotted Lace Triangle Shawl

Circular Lace Shawl

Soft Shoulder Shawl

Stella Luna Lace Shawl

Silky Alpaca Lace Wrap

Easy Lace Shawl

What else do you use shawls for?

Trend Alert: Elephant Craft Projects for All Ages

January 27, 2015 by FaveCrafts

There’s a trend that has been popping up all over the place and it’s about time we write about it! Elephants! I’ve seen them on scarves, wall art, t-shirts, dining ware and more. We are all aware of the fox trend, the owls, and the increasingly popular hedgehog. But elephants took me by surprise – in a good way. It’s time for these gentle giants take the spotlight in design. That’s why I’ve rounded up just about every elephant themed craft project we have. You’re welcome!

Crochet Elephants

These elephants are perfect for kids and adults alike. We love that these free crochet patterns all take a slightly different approach to the elephant which makes each one unique!

Stephanie’s Elephant Square

Circus Elephant Crochet Lovey

Crochet Elephant Bookends

Darling Elephant Crochet Lovey

An Elephant No Matter How Small

Baby Elephant Crochet Hat

Gracie the Tiny Elephant

Elephants for Kids

Did you know that a baby elephant is called a calf? These free DIY projects feature the elephant in so many cute ways.

Precious Patchwork Elephants

Rainbow Loom Elephant Charm

Rainbow Sponge Painted Elephant

Cute Cardboard Elephant

Button Elephant

Sewing Patterns for Elephants

We’re totally loving these free sewing tutorials that hit the elephant trend head on. Learn how to sew a pillow featuring elephants and your living room will be so trendy!

Hand-Sewn Elephant Family

Cuddly Blanket Elephant

Elephant Purse

Elephant Applique Cushion

Safari Applique Pillows

Charlie the Elephant

Paper Elephants

These free paper crafts are perfect for those who love elephants and want to try their hand at making a little elephant.

Printable Elephant Bookmarks That Never Forget

Adorable Ephemera Elephant Card

Baby Wishes Photo Album

Origami Elephant

Knitted Elephants

These are some of the cutest elephants I have ever seen! The best part is that all of these elephants are free knitting patterns.

Flo the Elephant

Knit Floral Elephant

Elephant Lovie Blanket

Knitted Toy Elephant

What do you think of the elephant trend?

12 Scarves You Need to Knit Right Now

August 24, 2014 by FaveCrafts

There’s just something about a warm scarf on a cold day. Who doesn’t love the warm and cozy feeling you get when you sling one around your neck and head out the door? Scarves not only add warmth and weight, but they also add a touch of class and style to any wardrobe. The one problem is that when it comes to buying scarves, you can end up spending an arm and a leg. What’s a girl to do?

The latest free eBook, 12 Knitted Scarf Patterns: Fabulous Free Knitting Patterns for Beginners solves this problem and makes life so much brighter. Browse our collection of the best free knitting patterns – each of which has a full materials list, step-by-step instructions and helpful hints. Whether you’re new to knitting or a true expert, this free eBook is sure to keep you busy (and happy) all season long. Best of all, these are so many fun kinds of scarves to make – you won’t get bored or run out of ideas. From cowls to light and lacy designs, this eBook has it all.

Download your free copy of 12 Knitted Scarf Patterns: Fabulous Free Knitting Patterns for Beginners today!

Traditional Scarf Knitting Patterns

Just like snow and red noses, a long and chunky scarf is a staple of winter. They never go out of style or lose their luster, making them an essential for anyone’s winter wardrobe. You can make them in a variety of colors and (when possible) use a single skein of yarn. You can even add cool textures and embellishments to make the scarf stand out. The Coconut Milk Scarf is a reader favorite because it can be customized so easily. The loose stitches create wide holes, making it more breathable and less claustrophobic for the wearer. You use one color for the entire piece or add a second color on each end of the scarf. Another fun take on a traditional look is the Chain Stitch Scarf. This scarf is perfect for beginners because you only work up seven rows. This is a great way to practice your stitches and hone your knitting technique. This is a single color project, so you only need two balls of the same kind of yarn. It doesn’t get much better than that (especially if you don’t want to drop money on more yarn).

Unexpected Knit Scarf Pattern

What do bacon and potato chips have to do with scarves? A lot, actually! In 12 Knitted Scarf Patterns: Fabulous Free Knitting Patterns for Beginners, you’ll find two potato chip scarf patterns and a Makin’ Bacon Scarf. Unfortunately, neither of these projects is scratch and sniff, though. While the Makin’ Bacon Scarf is meant to look like a strip of bacon, the Artsy Potato Chip Scarf and the Soft and Smoky Potato Chip Scarf actually have nothing to do with your favorite greasy snack. Both have wavy edges and tend to spiral when wrapped around one’s neck. The result is a pretty and dainty accessory that is sure to wow. Other cool and unexpected scarf knitting patterns in the free eBook include the Knit Scarflette and the Two Tone Cowl. If you want to stay warm and stand out from the crowd, you’ve come to the right place. These patterns prove that knit scarf patterns can make a huge impression.

Download your free copy of 12 Knitted Scarf Patterns: Fabulous Free Knitting Patterns for Beginners today!

Why do you love winter?

27 Easy Knitting Patterns for Fall

October 5, 2012 by FaveCrafts

Have you been itching to learn how to knit? Or maybe you’re looking for easy knitting patterns to help you get ready for the cooler months? Well, now you can gear up for fall and winter with Learn How to Knit for Beginners: 27 Easy Knitting Patterns, the newest free eBook from FaveCrafts.com!

In this fabulous collection of knitting patterns, you’ll learn how to create knit hats, scarves, ponchos, wraps, slippers, home decor, and more! Many people think that scarves are the only thing you can make when you’re learning to knit, but that’s far from the truth! With some basic skills, a little patience, and this free eBook, you can create lots of different wearables for you and all your friends and family! So get those knitting needles out of storage and gather up some skeins of your favorite yarn. Pour yourself a cup of coffee as you download this eBook and get started on making one or all of these easy knitting patterns!

Easy Knit Hat Patterns

Looking for a knit hat pattern to make for yourself or a friend? Patterns like this Adam’s Rib Cap can help you add some color and fun to your wardrobe. This easy knitting pattern is great for a boy or a girl. It’s easy to customize the color and even mix colors if you’re feeling adventurous! That’s the great thing about the patterns in 27 Easy Knitting Patterns…many of them can be customized to be suitable for anyone. Change the yarn colors to anything you’d like to create something truly special and unique! Like this cap, the hat patterns in 27 Easy Knitting Patterns are great for beginners. If you can cast on, knit, purl, and increase and decrease stitches, you won’t have any trouble creating these easy knitting patterns.

Knit Scarf Patterns

Knitters of all skills seem to love to make scarves. They’re quick and easy and great for making a new look! Patterns for scarves are often very easy to follow and perfect for those who don’t have much experience knitting. If you’re looking for an easy scarf to knit, look no further than the Green Lace Scarf. This colorful accessory can easily be worn any time of year, from the cold winter months to those cooler summer nights. And when you download 27 Easy Knitting Patterns, you’ll find great scarf patterns for all reasons and seasons!

Knit Ponchos and Wraps

Going for a new look? Patterns like the ones you’ll find in 27 Easy Knitting Patterns are great for adding a little something special to your wardrobe. This 2-Piece Knit Poncho is a great DIY fashion staple. It’s easy to make and a great project for beginning knitters. The best thing about the wraps and ponchos you’ll find in 27 Easy Knitting Patterns is that they can be worn year round. Many of them are great for all seasons, and with a fun crochet flower, this knit poncho will be your new favorite go-to item!

And don’t forget, knit hats, scarves, mittens, and slippers also make wonderful homemade Christmas gifts for all your loved ones. You can download 27 Easy Knitting Patterns now and use the easy knitting patterns to make gifts for everyone! It’s a budget friendly idea, easy to do, and will mean a lot to everyone on your list…so download 27 Easy Knitting Patterns today!

Meet the Editor: Melissa

January 5, 2012 by FaveCrafts

Hey! Jenny here interviewing Melissa of FaveCrafts for the first “Meet the Editor” of the year! Crazy to think we’re in 2012 already!

Melissa is one of the newbies here at Prime Publishing. She hasn’t been assigned a site quite yet, but she’s been uploading lots of new projects on FaveCrafts and bringing you a few blog posts here and there.

Melissa was born and raised in Chicago. She graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in English Literature and a double minor in public relations and Native American Studies. During the four years she spent in the freezing Upper Peninsula, Melissa had lots of time for DIY projects and her love for crafting continues to this day! She loves getting inspired and finding new ways to use old things, so send your cans, bottles, and scrap paper her way!

When she’s not crafting, you can usually find Melissa browsing old book stores, watching Mad Men, or fine-tuning her baking skills. In the coming year, Melissa hopes to expand her creative horizons and try some new crafting techniques. She’d love to learn to crochet and can’t wait to dust off her sewing machine!

As she’s been adding projects, Melissa found lots of ideas to try in the coming year and she would love to share them with you! You can find her favorites below.

As we move forward, Melissa would like to wish all of you a year filled with inspiration, creativity, and the drive to keep learning, laughing, and loving. Happy 2012!

Here’s a few Fun Facts about Melissa!:

Are you a crafter? What crafts do you like to do?
Melissa: I am a crafter! I love all kinds of crafts, but I mainly stick to clay, paper, and knitting. I really like finding new ways to use old things, so I’m always browsing thrift stores for new ideas and motivation.
How long have you been crafting?
Melissa: I’ve been crafting for as long as I can remember! My love for crafts probably started in kindergarten. We were making picture books about ourselves and I got in trouble for using all the glitter and stickers on my book. I guess it hasn’t stopped since!
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what five craft supplies or tools would you want with you?
Melissa: Hmm…scissors, Mod Podge, yarn, knitting needles, and paper.
What craft have you always wanted to try?
Melissa: I really want to learn to make my own clothes! I got a sewing machine for Christmas a few years ago and I’m so intimidated to use it–but that’s going to change this year!
Have you ever had a craft fail? Tell us about it.
Melissa: Let me just say that my first quilting attempt was a disaster. I had this huge plan to make this beautiful quilt for my mom. I even printed photos on fabric to sew onto the quilt. My squares were cut evenly and I was gearing up to start sewing. In my foolishness, and complete ignorance of quilting and sewing, I just figured I’d start sewing squares together randomly…hoping that it would come out evenly since each square was 4”x4”. Um, wrong. Not only did I not consider the seam, but every single square moved in the sewing process, so it was crooked and totally uneven…which I guess fits my family! I eventually just scratched the whole thing…as a matter of fact I think it’s still sitting in my craft box!