I’ve been a self-taught knitter since 2005 and teaching knitting since 2006 — which, in internet years, feels like the Stone Age. Back then, YouTube was clunky and unreliable, and most yarn stores didn’t even have websites, let alone instant-download pattern libraries. My knitting education came largely from second-hand pattern books and thrifted knitting magazines, squeezed into the tight budget of a jobbing actor in London.
But how things have changed! Today, there’s a vibrant online knitting community, global in scope, generously sharing patterns and knowledge. A sweater worn on a TV show can inspire a new design the same day — and that design may be posted online within hours. It’s an exciting, open world where beginner and seasoned knitters alike can learn, connect, and create with confidence.
Still, with so many resources available, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of 6 beautiful online destinations to find knitting patterns and inspiration — updated with a fantastic new favorite.
- Creative Fabrica Needle Arts – Knitting — A Hidden Gem for Budget-Friendly Patterns
A new favorite and a true gem, Creative Fabrica’s Needle Patterns – Knitting section is a treasure trove of accessible, downloadable knitting patterns perfect for beginners and intermediate knitters alike.
While the platform is widely known for digital design assets, its Knitting Graphics category includes hundreds of affordable patterns — everything from scarves and cardigans to plush toys and festive accessories. The subscription model provides unlimited downloads, making it an incredible value if you knit frequently or dabble in other crafts like crochet or sewing.
Each pattern page includes clear visuals, detailed instructions, and often bonus files or templates. Whether you’re creating gifts, building a pattern library, or just trying something new, Creative Fabrica delivers versatility and style without breaking the bank.
If you like the idea of a one-stop shop for all things craft-related — with knitting patterns as part of a bigger creative universe — this platform is worth bookmarking.
- Ravelry — The Ultimate Knitting Community Hub
Ravelry remains the heart of the online knitting world — a global community of fiber artists sharing patterns, yarn info, project photos, forums, and creative ideas. It’s completely free to join and offers an unmatched pattern database.
With filters for skill level, yarn weight, price (free vs. paid), and more, Ravelry allows for incredibly precise searches. I use it constantly — to discover how others have used a particular yarn, locate local yarn shops while traveling, or find my next personal project. My profile there is PaperRockScissors, where I’ve logged many of my finished projects, complete with the yarn, needles, and patterns I used.
Ravelry is a living archive of the knitting world. If you haven’t already joined, you’re missing out on an extraordinary (and very friendly) tool.
- Purl Soho — Modern Patterns with Timeless Elegance
Originally a gorgeous brick-and-mortar store in New York City, Purl Soho has evolved into a top-tier digital destination for fiber lovers. Their free patterns are a delight — simple, elegant, and contemporary with just the right touch of classic styling.
From blankets and baby clothes to socks, scarves, and hats, Purl Soho offers patterns for knitters of all levels. Many are free, while others are available for digital purchase. Their tutorials and blog posts are an added bonus, helping knitters explore new techniques.
Some personal favorites include:
- The Ribbed Hat
- Colorful Corner Blanket
- Fishnet Anklets
Pro Tip: Found a pattern you love on Purl Soho? Look it up on Ravelry to see how others have interpreted it with different yarns and colorways.
- PetiteKnit — Scandinavian Style Meets Knitting
PetiteKnit, the brainchild of Danish designer Mette Wendelboe Okkels, has become an icon of modern knitting style. Her patterns balance minimalism with wearability, offering cozy, streamlined pieces that are flattering and functional.
From sweaters and slipovers to balaclavas and baby knits, the designs are clean, fashionable, and incredibly well-written. While none of the patterns are free, the prices are reasonable — and many are translated into multiple languages.
Currently queued on my needles:
- Holiday Slipover
- LuluSlipover Junior
- November Balaclava
Prepare to fall down a beautifully curated knitting rabbit hole.
- Good Night, Day — Indie Knits with Serious Cool Factor
Tara-Lynn Morrison’s Good Night, Day collection is a celebration of modern indie knitwear. Her designs have a raw simplicity that gives them edge — oversized shapes, cozy textures, and clean silhouettes that make people ask, “Where did you buy that?”
The patterns are often intended for women-identifying knitters, with a few unisex designs sprinkled in. These are not beginner-beginner patterns, but they’re still accessible and so satisfying to complete.
Bonus: You can purchase finished items directly — but for knitters, the magic is in making them yourself.
- Knitting for Olive — Understated Danish Beauty
This family-run business from Denmark offers deeply thoughtful, minimalist knitting patterns for adults, babies, and children — usually priced around €5 per pattern.
Their designs are delicate but modern, perfect for anyone who appreciates slow fashion and subtle beauty. I was drawn in by the Chunky Lace Sweater pattern (now sadly discontinued), which I knit for my daughter’s first birthday after guiding a student through it.
The website also sells their own yarns — high-quality, ethically sourced, and well-loved in the knitting community. But be warned: your yarn stash might not survive a casual scroll through their online shop.
Got a Favorite Knitting Resource?
So there you have it — six wonderful websites to spark your creativity, strengthen your skills, and keep your needles moving all year long. Whether you’re after free patterns, stylish designs, indie vibes, or low-cost downloads, there’s something here for every kind of knitter.
Have a go-to resource you think should be on this list? Drop it in the comments and help expand the collective inspiration. Because in knitting, as in life, sharing is caring — and calm hands make beautiful things.
Let’s keep learning, challenging ourselves, and casting on with confidence.