All crafters have felt the desire to start a new project, but lack inspiration on what to make. Sometimes after a big project, you just want something simple and easy. Maybe you need something a little more complex to get that learning spark going. Or perhaps you just want to try something new. Fear not! This post will offer a variety of ideas to inspire you on what to knit.
What to knit if you are a beginner and want to learn to make something new
Okay, so you have pretty much mastered washcloths. Now what? If you want to keep practicing your knits and purls, why not try a textured scarf like this one from Leah Watson? Simple scarves like this allow for a longer project, without requiring endless hours poured in. Scarves make great beginner projects because they can allow for a ton of flexibility. Color, weight, and length are all up to you. Plus they make great gifts!
Ready to start knitting in the round? Give this ribbed beanie from Kathy North a try. The stretchy nature of this beanie gives some added comfort, and it’s a pretty quick knit. Great for chilly weather, you can’t go wrong with a beanie. Trust me, once you start making these, you won’t be able to stop. Pretty soon, all the neighbors are getting beanies for the holidays!
Perhaps it’s that magical time of year: Autumn. Or maybe it’s always autumn in your heart. Either way, these knit pumpkins from Kiki Geiger are a great choice! I love these because they are super flexibly, and they’re awesome stash busters. Being able to knit your own fall décor is a big win in my book. You can make them in all sizes to spruce up your home.
What if you have already given everyone you know a beanie
Let’s say you need a new project, but you could knit a beanie in your sleep. Maybe you’re at more of what I like to call a “beginnermediate” level. You have the basics on lock down, but you know there is so much more to the world of knitting that you have yet to explore. You want a new type of project entirely. How about a comfy slipper boot courtesy of Kris Basta (AKA Kris Krafter)? I made these a few years ago for a coworker who had foot surgery and she loved them during her recovery. Cozy and plushy, these dorm boots will keep your toes warm and your needles clicking.
Hear me out – ear flap hat. Beanies have been done, but ear flap hats offer a new level of complexity with a cozy component. This hat from Plymouth Yarn Design Studio is a personal favorite. This super bulky yarn makes it a quick knit, but the finishing touches show how much love you are putting into this project. These hats give off the vibe that you are out exploring in the snow, and you take warmth seriously.
Another new and exciting project is a pair of arm warmers! The pattern from Delia Rau Cholakian makes a beautiful gift, and it’s twice the fun since you get to knit for both arms! My husband wears his when we go out in the winter, and sometimes at home when he is gaming if the house is a bit too chilly.
What to knit if you need a break from a big project
Sweaters and blankets are great, but occasionally you need something quick to give you a boost of joy from finishing a project. These scrunchies from Bryn Barnes are a great option! Another stash buster project, these are a short project with only a small amount of finishing work. Bonus points if you can match these to a set of mittens or fingerless gloves you’ve already made!
Do you have a furry friend? Maybe a dog sweater is just the break you need! The pattern from Talking Tails is great for smaller breeds, but search around Ravelry if your pooch needs more room. My mom’s favorite child – her dachshund, loves the sweater she has from the pattern above. It keeps her warm and stylish during the colder months.
Quick, easy, and beautiful – this cup cozy from E. J. Kirkwood has it all. When I need to put my longer projects down, I love pulling out something I can knit in one sitting. This is another super giftable craft that your loved ones will really enjoy. Plus this is a great introduction to fair isle knitting, sure to wow all who sip from it.
What to make if you’re tired of garments
You need a break from garments. You want to make something you can use at home or give to someone that they don’t need to wear. Rapid fire, here are some great patterns for you to try!
- A book cover by Anne Hids, a wonderful way to protect your books or journals.
- Stuffed animals! These owls from Ana Clerc and this bunny from Gina Michele are a good place to start.
- Bags of any sort – market bags, pouches, or this drawstring bag via Janet D. Russell.
- Coasters make a great house warming gift. I personally love these from Karrie Weaver.
- You can never have enough containers. Try a basket by Angie Cruise and find something to fill it with!
What if all your favorites are boring you?
Sometimes we still love our go to projects, but they become old hat, so to speak. How can we spice up those tried and true projects?
Add cabling
Cabling has become a favorite of mine, because it adds a little complexity to otherwise basic projects. This scarf from Lil Owl Designs is a great example of a simple project elevated by cabling. Non knitters will love the new design element, and you’ll love trying something a little different.
Try Fair Isle or color work
Fair Isle knitting is a traditional technique that uses multiple colors to create a pattern. This hat from Svart Lamb is a great way to start exploring Fair Isle. Once you get a feel for it, try designing your own Fair Isle patterns! Color work has become nearly synonymous with Fair Isle, although traditionally Fair Isle uses only 2 colors per row, with about 4 being used in the total garment. One of my all time favorite projects with this colorwork Santa hat from Kari Pederson.
Above all else…
Just keep knitting! Maybe none of these feel quite right. Don’t be afraid to browse Ravelry and see what’s out there. Or, try searching based on what yarn you have. However you break your knitter’s block, the important thing is to make something that makes you happy. Before you go, let me know what you decided to make!