Free Knitted Heart Pattern (+ Easy Printable)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.In this post, you will see a free knitted heart pattern (with an easy printable).
You can make this pattern using only leftover yarn from your stash.
It’s the perfect addition to your Valentine’s Day decor.
Please scroll down to grab your free pattern printable.
Knitted Heart Pattern
Skill Level – Confident Beginners
This easy heart knitting pattern is made using leftover scrap yarn in your stash, and it’s a cute idea to make as decor.
It’s great for advanced beginners as you need basic knowledge of increases and decreases.
However, this project is the perfect size for practicing these techniques.
Pattern Notes
- Finished Size – The finished heart, when stuffed, is around 6.5 cm high x 6.5 cm wide.
- Knit Flat – The heart is worked flat (knitting back and forth) on straight needles.
- Gauge – Don’t worry too much about the gauge for this pattern.
- The gauge of the heart I made is 4 sts/ 6 rows in 1 inch.
- Cast on – You can cast on using the thumb method or long-tail cast-on for this project.
- The seams – use the mattress stitch to sew up the side of the heart/seams of the heart.
- Yarn choice – Any DK yarn/ Lightweight 03 yarn will be okay for this project.
- Stash-busting your leftovers is great, as you need less than 10g per heart.
Video Tutorial
View a video tutorial showing you how to knit one of these small hearts on my YouTube channel here.
The Supplies You Need
Yarn
- Leftovers from your yarn stash – less than 10g per heart of any DK yarn.
- I used leftover cotton – Rico Creative Cotton.
Needle Size
- 4 mm (US 6) knitting needles
Notions
- Darning Needle/yarn needle or tapestry needle
- Scissors
- Stitch holder
Other Materials
- Fiberfill/stuffing
Knitting Abbreviations
- K – Knit
- K2tog – Knit the next two stitches together
- KFB – Knit into the front and back of the stitch (increase)
- P – Purl
- Rep – Repeat
- St(s) – Stitches
- st st – Stocking stitch
- P2tog – Purl the next two stitches together
Pattern Instructions
Make two pieces for one heart.
With the 4 mm needle/US 6, Cast on 2 sts
- Rows 1-2 – st, st, start with a knit row.
- Row 3 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 4 – Purl.
- Row 5 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 6 – Purl.
- Row 7 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 8 – Purl.
- Row 9 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 10 – Purl.
- Row 11 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 12 – 14 – Continue in st, st.
- Row 15 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 16 – 18 – Cont in st, st.
- Row 19 – Repeat row 15
- Row 20 – Purl the first 8 sts, turn, and continue working on these 8 sts. Transfer the other 8 sts to a stitch holder.
- Row 21 – *K2tog, K4, K2tog.
- Row 22 – Purl.
- Row 23 – K2tog, K2, K2tog.
- Row 24 – Purl.
- Row 25 – K2tog, K2tog.
- Row 26 – P2tog.
Break yarn, leaving a long end. Thread through the last stitch on the needle*.
Transfer the 8 sts from the stitch holder onto the needle and repeat from * to *.
Finishing
Lay the two pieces with the right sides facing out (the wrong sides touching on the inside).
Sew the side edge of the heart going up over the top of the heart and back down to the other side.
Leave a gap and stuff firmly.
Stitch up the gap and weave in any loose ends.
Free Printable
Grab this free printable for a sweet and simple knitted heart pattern—perfect for beginners and a great way to use up leftover yarn!
Whether you’re making heartfelt gifts, decorations, or adding a handmade touch to cards and packages, these little hearts knit up quickly and add a lovely personal touch.
Just print the pattern, grab your needles, and start stitching some love!
Grab your easy knitted heart pattern free pdf here…
Free Heart Knitting Pattern
Learn how to knit a simple heart with this free step-by-step knitting pattern.
Perfect for beginners, this quick project is great for gifts, decorations, or using up leftover yarn.
Materials
- Leftovers from your yarn stash - less than 10g per heart of any DK yarn.
- I used leftover cotton - Rico Creative Cotton.
- Fiberfill/stuffing
Tools
- 4 mm (US 6) knitting needles
- Yarn Needle/tapestry needle
- Scissors
- Stitch holder
Instructions
Make 2 pieces for one heart.
- Cast on 2 sts
- Rows 1-2 – st, st, start with a knit row.
- Row 3 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 4 – Purl.
- Row 5 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 6 – Purl.
- Row 7 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 8 – Purl.
- Row 9 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 10 – Purl.
- Row 11 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 12 – 14 – Continue in st, st.
- Row 15 – KFB at beg and end of the row.
- Row 16 – 18 – Cont in st, st.
- Row 19 – Repeat row 15.
Divide for heart bumps
- Row 20 – Purl the first 8 sts, turn and continue working on these 8 sts. Transfer the other 8 sts to a stitch holder.
- Row 21 – *K2tog, K4, K2tog.
- Row 22 – Purl.
- Row 23 – K2tog, K2, K2tog.
- Row 24 – Purl.
- Row 25 – K2tog, K2tog.
- Row 26 – P2tog.
- Break yarn, leaving a long end. Thread through the last stitch on the needle*.
- Transfer the 8 sts from the stitch holder onto the needle and repeat from * to *.
Finishing
- Lay the two pieces with the right sides facing out (the wrong sides touching on the inside).
- Sew the side edge of the heart going up over the top of the heart and back down to the other side.
- Leave a gap and stuff firmly.
- Stitch up the gap and weave in any loose ends.
Notes
Pattern Notes
Finished Size - The finished heart when stuffed is around 6.5cm high x 6.5cm wide.
Knit Flat - The heart is worked flat (knitting back and forth) on straight needles.
Gauge - Don't worry too much about gauge for this pattern. The gauge of the heart I made is 6 sts/ 4 rows in 1 inch.
Cast on - You can cast on using the thumb method or long-tail cast on for this project.
The seams - use the mattress stitch to sew up the seams of the heart.
Yarn choice - Any DK yarn/ Lightweight 03 yarn will be ok to use for this project. Stash busting your leftovers is great as you need less than 10g per heart.
Knitting Abbreviations
- k - Knit
- k2tog - Knit the next two stitches together
- KFB - Knit into the front and back of the stitch (increase)
- p - Purl
- rep - Repeat
- st(s) - Stitches
- st st - Stocking stitch
- p2tog - Purl the next two stitches together
Make A Knitted Heart For Valentine’s Day
You could make these tiny hearts as gifts for Valentine’s Day.
This is a very quick DIY project to show how much you care.
These mini hearts are perfect for home decor; you can spread them around your home, make them into a heart garland, or add a small string to create a heart ornament.
Moreover, they can be a perfect gift for kids and adults.
Plus, this simple pattern only requires yarn scraps, so you can make as many as you want in all your favorite colors.
If you knit this adorable puffy heart for personal use, you can use any yarn you like, from DK to worsted weight yarn.
The choice is yours!
Related Post: 20 Heart Knitting Patterns (Free And Easy Knitted Hearts)
How Do You Knit A Heart For Beginners?
Knitting a heart might seem a little tricky at first, but with a few basics under your belt, it’s a fun and rewarding project.
Here’s how to get started if you’re new to knitting:
Start with Simple Shapes
Hearts involve curves and points, so it’s helpful to begin by practicing simpler shapes.
Focus on basic patterns to build your confidence before diving into the heart shape.
Choose the Right Yarn
Pick a smooth, light-colored yarn for your first heart.
This type of yarn makes it easier to see your stitches and spot any mistakes, which is especially helpful when you’re learning.
Practice Basic Stitches
Before starting your heart, make sure you’re comfortable with the knit and purl stitches.
These are the foundation of most knitting patterns and will help you feel more confident with your needles.
Learn Increases and Decreases
To shape a heart, you’ll need to use increases (to create the rounded tops) and decreases (for the pointed bottom).
Try practicing these techniques separately so you feel more prepared.
Use a Simple Pattern
Look for beginner-friendly heart patterns with clear, step-by-step instructions.
These patterns often use basic stitches and help you learn how shaping works in a structured way.
Try Stitch Markers
Stitch markers can be very helpful for keeping track of where your increases and decreases go.
They make it easier to stay symmetrical and avoid common mistakes.
Get Comfortable Reading Patterns
Take some time to understand how knitting patterns are written.
Knowing how to read a pattern will make it easier to follow along, especially as you move on to more detailed projects like a heart.
Embrace Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes when they’re learning something new.
Don’t get discouraged—every error is a chance to improve your skills.
Just keep practicing, and you’ll have a knitted heart before you know it!
Helpful resources
What Is the Meaning of Knitted Hearts?
Knitted hearts are simple but powerful symbols of love, care, and kindness.
People often make them as heartfelt gifts to show someone they’re thinking of them—whether it’s for a partner, a friend, or someone going through a tough time.
These little hearts can offer comfort and support, serving as a small but meaningful reminder that someone cares.
They’re also popular in charity projects, where they’re donated to hospitals, care homes, or community groups to spread joy and warmth.
Beyond their emotional meaning, knitted hearts are also a lovely way for crafters to express creativity and connect with others through handmade kindness.
Every stitch carries a message of love, support, and the joy of giving.
What To Do With Knitted Hearts
Knitted hearts are more than just cute little projects—they’re full of possibilities!
Whether you’re gifting, decorating, or crafting something meaningful, there are so many creative ways to use them.
Here are some fun and thoughtful ideas:
Gift Embellishments
Add a sweet handmade touch by tying a knitted heart to a wrapped gift or sewing it onto a gift bag.
It’s a small gesture that makes your present extra special.
Garlands and Bunting
String multiple hearts together to make festive garlands.
Drape them across your mantel, windows, or walls for a cozy, cheerful vibe—perfect for seasonal or party décor.
Keychains and Bag Charms
Attach a small knitted heart to your keys, tote bag, or backpack for a personalized accessory.
They’re cute, soft, and make lovely little keepsakes!
Home Decor
Use knitted hearts to add charm around your home.
Scatter them in bowls, add them to table centerpieces, or tuck them into shelf displays for a handmade touch.
Blanket or Pillow Appliqués
Sew knitted hearts onto pillows or blankets to personalize your home textiles.
It’s a lovely way to add texture and warmth to your space.
Valentine’s Day Decorations
Knitted hearts are perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Add them to wreaths and table settings, or hang them around the house to create a festive and loving atmosphere.
Hair Accessories
Glue or sew hearts onto headbands, clips, or hair ties for a cute and whimsical accessory—great for little ones or themed celebrations.
Brooches or Pins
Turn your hearts into wearable art by attaching a pin or brooch backing.
Pin them to coats, scarves, or bags for a charming handmade flair.
Baby Mobiles
Create a soothing mobile for a nursery by hanging knitted hearts from a hoop or mobile frame.
They’re soft, safe, and oh-so-sweet!
Greeting Cards
Glue a small knitted heart onto a handmade card for a heartfelt embellishment.
It’s a lovely way to add texture and a personal touch to your message.
Ornaments
Hang hearts on a Christmas tree or display them year-round.
They make meaningful ornaments for special occasions or to mark personal milestones.
Memory Keepsakes
Sew hearts into memory blankets or quilts to symbolize special people or moments in your life.
A beautiful way to preserve memories through your craft.
Resources and tutorials you may find helpful in following this pattern:
This pattern is great for any advanced beginner knitters.
- Knitting cast-on methods.
- Knitting Lessons
- How to cast on knitting
- How to cast off knitting for total beginners (step by step)
- How to knit garter stitch
- How to knit the purl stitch (for beginners + a video tutorial)
- How to knit stockinette stitch (for beginners)
- How to read knitting patterns for beginners
- Knitting abbreviations and terms (US and UK)
- How to knit rib stitch patterns (1×1 and 2×2 ribbing)
- How to kit two stitches together – K2tog
- KFB knitting – How to make an increase
Knitting Lessons
If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).
There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.
And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.
Heart Knitting Patterns
If you love knitting, you can check out these patterns…
- Heart Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern
- Dog Bandana Knitting Pattern
- Fair Isle Hat Free Knitting Pattern (Hearts Design)
- Knitted Wrist Warmers With Hearts
Free Crochet Patterns
Could you share your work with us?
I love seeing your finished projects on social media.
If you enjoyed making the knitted heart, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.
If you are on Facebook, stop over to the handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo.
I’d love to see your work.
Happy Knitting!
