27 DIY Knit Potholders (Free Potholder Knitting Patterns)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.In this blog post, you will see 27 DIY Knit Potholders (Free Potholder Knitting Patterns).
A knitted potholder is a functional, often decorative kitchen accessory that protects your hands and surfaces from hot pots, pans, and baking dishes.
It’s typically made using heat-resistant materials and features a thick, double-layered construction for added insulation.
It’s great for last-minute gifts and housewarming parties.
Free Knit Potholder Patterns
If you are ready to make your own potholder, check out the free knitting patterns below, and you might find your next knitting project.
Happy Knitting!
Double-Thick Pot Holder by Purl Soho
In this blog post, you will see how to make double-thick potholders.
It's a great pattern if you are looking for a quick project.
It's a great way to protect your hands from casserole dishes and iron skillets.
How To Knit A Potholder With T-Shirt Yarn by The Snugglery
In this blog post, you will see how to make easy pot holders
Not only are they a great gift, but they will also spice up your kitchen decor.
You can make your own set in one afternoon.
Knit Potholder Pattern Using the Linen Stitch by Nourish And Nestle
This blog post will show you how to make a knit potholder with the linen stitch.
It's great if you are looking to replace your old oven mitts.
Add a piece of leather as a strap.
Make a set for you or as a gift.
Carrot Field Potholder - Free Knitting Pattern by Twins Knit
This blog post will show you how to make a carrot field potholder.
This is a super fun project to make and will look fabulous in your kitchen.
Make a set for you or as a gift.
Citrus Fruit Potholder by Knitting And So On
In this blog post, you will see how to make fun potholders.
This thick potholder is a great practical item that can double as a hotpad as well.
They will look great at the dinner table and the kitchen.
Thermal Knit Potholder by Lisa Martin
Make a thermal knit potholder with this free pattern.
This potholder is knit with two strands of worsted weight yarn.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry
Always Spring Potholder by DROPS Design
Make spring-themed potholders with this free pattern.
The pattern includes colorwork, and it's great for more experienced makers.
Plus, there are video tutorials and a chart to help you along.
Ammonite Potholders by Knitting And So On
In this blog post, you will see how to make potholders with an interesting design.
It's a great pattern to make in an afternoon.
Knit a set for you or as a gift.
Monday Morning by DROPS Design
Make potholders with this free pattern.
This is a great beginner pattern, as it's made with the garter stitch.
Knit with two strands of yarn together, this potholder has no thin spots.
Lily Sugar 'n Cream World's Best Knit Mitten Potholder by Flax & Twine
Make a set of cotton potholders with this free knitting pattern.
A great gift for you or for a friend.
The pattern is available as a free PDF on the Yarnspirations website.
Santa Claus Potholder Knitting Pattern by Nimble Needles
In this blog post, you will see how to make a Santa Claus potholder.
It's a great addition to your holiday decor.
Make one for you or as a gift.
Learn How to Knit a Potholder (with leftover yarn!) by Sheep And Stitch
This blog post teaches you how to knit a potholder using leftover yarn.
This is a great project for those who want to make something useful while also using up their yarn scraps.
The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners.
Plus, there is a video tutorial to help you along.
Dishcloth & Potholder by Eunice Svinicki
Make a set of potholders and dishcloths with this free pattern.
There are two different designs to make.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Diampoth Potholder & Hand Towel by Vörös Dóra
Make a potholder and hand towel set with this free pattern.
This is a great project if you need a quick knit.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Little Potholder Knitting Pattern: Handy by Brome Fields
In this blog post, you will see a potholder knitting pattern.
All you need is worsted weight yarn and 5 mm knitting needles.
Knit a set for you or as a gift for a family member.
Garter Stitch Pot Holders by Sasha Blue
Make easy garter stitch pot holders with this free pattern.
Perfect for beginners.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Tuff Puff Trivet by The Obsessed Blog
Make trivets with this free knitting pattern.
You only need super bulky wool yarn and US 15 - 10.0 mm knitting needles.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Lily Knit Folded Pot Holder by Yarnspirations
Make cute pot holders with this free pattern.
Knit a set for you or as a gift.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Pot Holder / Hot Pad by Lion Brand Yarns
Make easy potholders with this free pattern.
This is a great pattern for beginners.
This lion brand pattern is available as free PDF.
Wood & Wool Pot Holders by Hanne Clemens
Make stylish pot holders with a wooden handle with this free pattern.
All you need is super chunky yarn and 8 mm knitting needles.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Lovely Cooking by DROPS Design
Make a beautiful potholder with a heart design.
Knit in red and white, it's perfect for Christmas and Valentine's Day.
Make a set for you or as a perfect gift for the holiday season.
Garter Stitch Potholder by Easy On The Tongue
This blog post will show you how to make an easy potholder.
Made with the garter stitch, this is a great beginner pattern.
Plus, it's perfect for last-minute gifts.
Sit Down by DROPS Design
Make felted potholders with this free pattern.
An excellent project for all makers.
Make a set for you or as a gift.
How to Make Your Knitted Pot Holders by Arianna Frasca
In this blog post, you will see how to knit pot holders.
It's a super easy pattern, great for all makers.
Perfect if you are looking for an easy project to pass the afternoon.
Da Love by Laura Nelkin
Make heart-shaped potholders with this free pattern.
A great last-minute Valentine's Day gift.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Sunburst Pot Holder by Purl Soho
In this blog post, you'll find a beautiful pattern for the Sunburst Pot Holder.
It has a lovely design and will look amazing in your kitchen and your dinner table.
Make a set for you or as a gift.
Striped Pot Holder in Lily Sugar 'n Cream Solids
Make a striped pot holder with this free pattern.
It's a fun stash-busting project, as you need very little yarn in each color.
The pattern is available on the Love Crafts website.
Everything You Need To Know About Knitting Potholders
What knit stitch is best for potholders?
When it comes to knitting potholders, choosing a stitch that results in a dense and heat-resistant fabric is advisable.
The seed stitch is often considered an excellent option for this purpose. The seed stitch is created by alternating knit and purl stitches within the same row, producing a textured and tightly woven fabric.
This texture adds visual interest and enhances the potholder’s ability to withstand heat.
Another suitable choice is the linen stitch, which combines slipped stitches and yarn overs, resulting in a sturdy and tightly woven fabric.
Both stitches create a durable double-layered fabric for potholders, offering an effective barrier against heat.
Learn how to knit the seed stitch here – How To Knit Seed Stitch For Beginners
Learn how to knit the linen stitch here – How To Knit The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
What size knitting needles should be used on potholders?
When choosing knitting needle sizes for potholders, it’s essential to consider the yarn weight and the desired fabric density.
For potholders, a smaller needle size within the recommended range for the chosen yarn weight is generally preferable.
Using a needle size smaller than typically recommended for the yarn will result in a tighter and denser fabric, which is crucial for effective heat resistance.
For medium-weight cotton yarn, commonly used for potholders due to its heat-resistant nature, using needles in the range of US 6 to US 8 (4.0mm to 5.0mm) is a good starting point.
However, it’s always advisable to check the yarn label for the manufacturer’s recommended needle size and to swatch to achieve the desired fabric density.
Experimenting with needle sizes allows you to find the balance between a tight stitch pattern and a comfortable knitting experience, ensuring that the potholder is both functional and practical in the kitchen.
Which are better for knitting potholders: circulars or straight needles?
Both circular needles and straight needles can be used for knitting potholders, and the choice between the two largely depends on personal preference and the specific design of the potholder.
Straight needles might be more convenient if you make a small, square potholder.
If you’re working on a larger or circular design, circular needles offer flexibility and may be more comfortable.
What is the best yarn for knit potholders?
The best yarn for knit potholders is generally 100% cotton. Cotton yarn is favored for potholders because it is heat-resistant, durable, and absorbs moisture well.
When exposed to heat, cotton tends to withstand it better than some other fibers, making it a practical choice for items designed to protect against hot surfaces.
Additionally, cotton is machine washable, which is important for kitchen items like potholders that may need frequent cleaning.
Using a natural fiber like cotton reduces the risk of melting under heat compared to synthetic fibers.
Look for worsted weight or aran-weight cotton yarn for potholders.
These yarn weights are suitable for creating a dense and sturdy fabric.
Remember that using multiple strands of thinner yarn or doubling the yarn can also contribute to a thicker and more heat-resistant potholder.
Remember to check yarn labels for care instructions and choose a colorfast yarn, especially if your potholders will be exposed to food stains and frequent washing.
Eco-Friendy Free Knitting Patterns
- Irish Moss Stitch Dishcloth Knitting Pattern
- Dishcloth Knitting Patterns (To Practice Basic Knitting Stitches)
- Diagonal Knit Dishcloth Pattern (Free + Easy For Beginners)
- How To Knit The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
- 10 Free Knitted Dishcloth Patterns
Eco-Friendly Free Crochet Patterns
Knitting Lessons
If you are a new maker and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).
There, you will find tutorial posts for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.
Including how to cast on, the basic knit stitches, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, a list of knitting abbreviations, and more.
And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.
Join The Handy Little Me Facebook Group to connect with more makers.
