Project Ideas and Resources
There are so many useful knitting resources online! One of my favorite sites to find patterns is Ravelry, although you do need to make an account. Some of my favorite designers include Petite Knit, My Favorite Things Knitwear, Caidree, and Purl Soho, though you would need to purchase patterns for all but Purl Soho. VeryPink Knits is my go-to place if I don't know how to execute a certain technique. She explains everything thoroughly, and for many techniques, she even has slow motion footage of the process. For buying quality yarns, I'd recommend visiting your local yarn shops (which often offer classes and/or free help!). Overall, I'd recommend choosing wool or natural fibers, though acrylic is more budget-friendly (it just doesn't hold up as well in the long run).
If you are looking for specific pattern ideas for your next charitable project, below are 8 beautiful and beginner-friendly FREE patterns.
Knit a blanket!
Here are three free beautiful blanket patterns. The first is a chunky blanket that requires extra large needles. The second pattern is a bit more advanced with a cool rectangle construction. The third blanket is made by stitching together multiple different smaller knit squares, creating a beginner-friendly, colorful, and easy-to-customize pattern.
Knit a scarf!
Knitting a scarf is a perfect beginner's project. Here are two free patterns. The first pattern may appear a bit tricky with all of its different color changes, but if instead you knit it in one solid color, it is very straightforward. The second pattern is also a simple, pretty scarf (If you're interested, that company sells a kit that comes with the pattern, yarn, and needles to make the scarf, though it is a bit pricey and not at all necessary).
Knit socks!
This free sock pattern has easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions with a three-part video series that knits along with you. I knit these socks years ago as one of my first projects (pictured above), and they've held up very well over time. (Note: The website says "Buy the pdf", but if you scroll down a bit further, all of the instructions are written out.)
