Patterns and knitting and crochet help sites
There’s loads of free advice and patterns out there, but sometimes it can take time to search. To help we have compiled a list of sites where you can find lots of patterns, either for free or to buy and get help when you need it. It’s by no means a definitive list and we are not saying any one site is better than any other. If you would like to see other sites added please let us know and we will do our best to include them.
Pattern sites
www.ravelry.comThe site for knitters and crocheters! You will need to register but once that’s done you’ll have access to a whole new world of knitting including a huge database of free patterns as well as patterns for sale.
www.patonsyarn.comYou will need to register to use this site but they have a good range of free patterns categorised according to project type and difficulty.
www.violetgreen.co.ukFree patterns for scarves, socks and hats as well as patterns for sale.
www.ukhandknitting.comSmall selection of free patterns.
www.knittingonthenet.comLots of free patterns for children and adults although searching can be slow as there are no pictures until you open up the pattern itself.
www.blackerdesigns.co.ukSome free patterns and some for sale.
www.freevintageknitting.comLots and lots of free vintage patterns. Don’t be put off if you don’t see the patterns straight away – scroll down and they will appear. Also has a good printer friendly setting.
www.vam.ac.uk/collections/fashion/features/knitting/index.htmlFree 1940’s knitting patterns from the Victoria and Albert Museum, but also lots more about the history of knitting.
www.yesterknits.comLots of vintage patterns for sale and 16 free patterns available by email.
www.theretroknittingcompany.co.ukThe Retro Knitting Company specialises in vintage knitting patterns, all in good condition and mostly pre 1970 with many from the 1920’s and 1930’s.
www.vintage-knitting-patterns.comAn American site with patterns for sale but there are some free patterns available by email.
www.knitonthenet.com/issue8/patterns.phpSmall selections of patterns inspired by the fashions of the 1930s, 40s and 50s.
www.lionbrand.comAn American site with a wide selection of free patterns and a good search section that allows you to search on several criteria such as item, skill level, weight of wool etc.
www.knitting.about.comFree patterns and guidance for people learning to knit.
www.knittingpatterncentral.comAnything from leg warmers to tea cosies. Browsing can be a bit slow as there are no pictures until you open the pattern.
www.knitty.comAn American site with a small selection of patterns ranging from mellow (suitable for beginners) to extraspicy (you need some experience!)
www.vogueknitting.comA great selection of patterns for a range of yarns. Each pattern has a difficulty level so you know what you are getting into!
www.ysolda.comSome free patterns and some for sale from the Scottish designer.
www.knitandsew.co.ukIf you are after a simple Sirdar or Stylecraft pattern this site has a good selection for sale.
Help sites
- www.knit1.tv
- www.knittinghelp.com
- www.learn2knit.co.uk
- uk.woolandthegang.com/en/video
- www.theknittingsite.com
- www.how-to-knit-guide.com
And don’t forget good old youtube.com!!
