20 Heart Knitting Patterns (Free And Easy Knitted Hearts)

In this blog post, you will see 20 heart knitting patterns to make!

A heart is the perfect project to make for Valentine’s Day. 

In this round-up, you will find patterns for all skill levels. 

Everything You Need To Know About Knitting Hearts

How to knit hearts? 

To knit hearts, master the fundamental stitches like knit and purl.

Start with simple patterns to build confidence, gradually progressing to more complex shapes.

Hearts involve increases for the rounded top and decrease for the V-shaped bottom, so practice these techniques individually before combining them.

Utilize stitch markers to maintain symmetry and aid in shaping the curves and points of the heart.

Choose smooth yarn in a light color for better stitch visibility.

Familiarize yourself with reading knitting patterns and their symbols, ensuring you understand the instructions.

Embrace the learning process, accepting mistakes as opportunities to refine your skills.

Take breaks to prevent fatigue, and celebrate small achievements throughout the journey.

Remember, knitting is a skill that improves with practice, so enjoy the creative process and have patience with your progress.

What is the best yarn for knitting hearts?

The best yarn for knitting hearts depends on your preferences, the intended use of the hearts, and the desired characteristics of the finished project.

Here are a few yarn options that work well for knitting hearts:

1. Cotton Yarn:
   • Cotton yarns are smooth, durable, and have a crisp finish. They are an excellent choice for knitted hearts that will be used as decorative items, appliqués, or embellishments on projects like blankets or pillows.
2. Acrylic Yarn:
   • Acrylic yarns are versatile, budget-friendly, and come in a wide range of colors. They are suitable for crafting knitted hearts for various purposes, including decorations, keychains, or items where washability and affordability are essential.
3. Wool Yarn:
   • Wool yarns add warmth and a cozy feel to knitted hearts. They are a great choice if the hearts are intended for use in comfort items like blankets or as part of projects meant to provide warmth, such as scarves or shawls.
4. Bamboo Yarn:
   • Bamboo yarns are known for their silky texture and drape. If you want knitted hearts with a luxurious and smooth finish, bamboo yarn could be an excellent option. It is also eco-friendly and has natural antibacterial properties.
5. Blend Yarns:
   • Yarn blends, combining different fibers, can offer a combination of characteristics. For example, a cotton-acrylic blend may provide the durability of cotton with the softness and affordability of acrylic.
6. Sparkle or Metallic Yarn:
   • For a touch of glamour or festivity, consider using yarns with metallic threads or sparkles. This can add a decorative element to knitted hearts, making them suitable for special occasions or holiday-themed projects.
7. Fine Yarn Weights:
   • Fingering, sport, or DK weight yarns are often preferred for smaller projects like knitted hearts. These weights allow for finer details and a more delicate appearance.
8. Variegated Yarns:
   • Variegated yarns with multiple colors or gradients can add visual interest to your knitted hearts. They create unique patterns and can make each heart a one-of-a-kind creation.

When choosing yarn for knitting hearts, consider the texture, color, and overall feel you want to achieve. 

Additionally, think about the practical aspects, such as washability and durability, especially if the hearts will be used in items that require frequent handling or washing. 

Experimenting with different yarns allows you to discover the qualities that best suit your creative vision for the knitted hearts.

• Learn everything about yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart} 
• Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers 

What is the best knitting stitch for hearts?

The best knitting stitch for knitting hearts depends on the design you have in mind and your skill level.

Here are a few common knitting stitches that work well for creating hearts:

1. Stockinette Stitch: Stockinette stitch is a classic choice for creating smooth and even fabric. You can use this stitch for the main body of the heart, especially if you want a simple and polished look. Learn how to knit the stockinette stitch here – How To Knit Stockinette Stitch (For Beginners)
2. Garter Stitch: Garter stitch is achieved by knitting every row. It creates a textured fabric with a slightly bumpy appearance. This stitch can be used for a simple and rustic feel in your knitted hearts. Learn how to knit the garter stitch here – How To Knit Garter Stitch
3. Seed Stitch: Seed stitch involves alternating knit and purl stitches within a row, creating a textured and nubby fabric. It’s a great choice if you want a heart with a bit of visual interest and texture. Learn how to knit the seed stitch here – How To Knit Seed Stitch For Beginners 
4. Ribbing: Ribbing, typically seen in patterns like 1×1 or 2×2 rib, adds elasticity and texture to your knitting. It’s a good choice for creating borders or edges on your knitted hearts. Learn how to knit the rib stitch here. – How To Knit Rib Stitch Patterns (1×1 and 2×2 ribbing)
5. Lace Stitches: Lace stitches, such as yarn overs and decreases, can be used to create intricate and decorative patterns within the heart. Lace stitches are excellent for adding a delicate and airy quality to your hearts.
6. Cables: Cables involve crossing stitches to create a twisted effect. While cables are often associated with more complex projects, smaller cable patterns can add a touch of sophistication to your knitted hearts. Learn how to knit cable stitches here – 8 Cable Stitch Knitting Patterns
7. Bobble Stitch: Bobbles are small, raised clusters of stitches that add texture to your knitting. You can incorporate bobble stitches into your heart pattern for a three-dimensional and playful effect.
8. Intarsia or Duplicate Stitch: For adding contrasting colors or creating a colorwork heart, consider using intarsia or duplicate stitch. These techniques allow you to add additional colors or details to your hearts.
9. Eyelet Stitches: Eyelet stitches create small holes in the fabric and can be used to add a decorative touch to your hearts. They are often combined with lace patterns for a delicate look.

Ultimately, the best knitting stitch for your hearts depends on the style you envision and the complexity you’re comfortable with. 

Feel free to experiment with different stitches and combinations to achieve the desired look for your knitted hearts.  

What is the best needle size for knitting hearts?

The best knitting needles for hearts depends on the yarn weight you’ve chosen and your personal tension.

Here are some general recommendations:

1. Fingering Weight Yarn:
   • If you’re using fingering weight yarn for smaller, delicate hearts, typically, a needle size in the range of US 2 to US 4 (2.75mm to 3.5mm) might be suitable.
2. Sport or DK Weight Yarn:
   • For hearts knit with sport or DK weight yarn, a needle size in the range of US 4 to US 6 (3.5mm to 4mm) is often appropriate.
3. Worsted Weight Yarn:
   • If you’re using worsted weight yarn for larger hearts or quicker projects, a needle size in the range of US 7 to US 9 (4.5 mm to 5.5 mm) could work well.

It’s a good idea to create a gauge swatch to ensure that your knitting matches the pattern’s recommended gauge.

If you’re unsure, you can also check the yarn label for the manufacturer’s recommended needle size.

Keep in mind that achieving the correct gauge is crucial, especially if you’re following a specific pattern.

Additionally, if you’re knitting hearts for a specific purpose (e.g., as appliqués, embellishments, or part of a larger project), you might want to choose a needle size that produces a fabric with the desired drape and texture.

What Are The Knitted Hearts For?    

Knitted hearts can serve various purposes and be used in different ways based on personal preferences and creative ideas.

Here are some common purposes for knitted hearts:

1. Gifts and Expressions of Love:
   • Knitted hearts are often crafted as heartfelt gifts for loved ones. They symbolize love, warmth, and care, making them perfect tokens for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or Valentine’s Day.
2. Decorative Embellishments:
   • Knitted hearts can be used as decorative embellishments for various items. Attach them to blankets, pillows, scarves, or even clothing to add a charming and handmade touch.
3. Home Decor:
   • Incorporate knitted hearts into home decor by creating garlands, wreaths, or framed art pieces. They can bring a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to any room.
4. Ornaments:
   • Transform knitted hearts into ornaments for holidays or special occasions. Hang them on a dedicated tree or as part of your general decor to add a personalized touch.
5. Baby Items:
   • Knitted hearts are adorable additions to baby items such as blankets, hats, or booties. They can be symbolic of the love and warmth surrounding the newborn.
6. Greeting Cards:
   • Attach knitted hearts to handmade greeting cards for a personalized and charming touch. This adds a unique and thoughtful element to your messages.
7. Crafting and Art Projects:
   • Use knitted hearts in crafting and art projects. They can be sewn onto canvases, incorporated into mixed-media art, or used in various creative endeavors.
8. Symbolic Reminders:
   • Knitted hearts can serve as symbolic reminders. Whether as personal keepsakes, memorial items, or representations of significant life events, they carry emotional meaning.
9. Personal Accessories:
   • Turn knitted hearts into personal accessories such as keychains, brooches, or bag charms. Wear them as a whimsical and handmade statement piece.
10. Dishcloths: Make dishcloths and washcloths in a heart shape to spice up your kitchen decor. 
11. Heart Coasters: Make fun heart shaped coasters or coasters with heart motifs in your favorite color. 
12. Heart Baby Blanket: Make cute baby blankets with tiny heart designs. 
13. Socks: Knit beautiful socks with heart designs. 

Whether as tokens of affection, decorative elements, or symbols of special moments, knitted hearts can add a touch of warmth and personalization to a wide range of items and occasions. 

What Is The Knitted Heart For Charity?   

Knitted hearts for charity are heartfelt creations crafted by individuals with the purpose of donating them to charitable causes. 

These small, hand-knit hearts hold significant symbolic value and are often part of larger initiatives aimed at providing comfort and support to those facing adversity. 

Crafters contribute their time and skills to produce these tangible expressions of care, and charitable organizations may organize drives or campaigns to collect and distribute the knitted hearts. 

Whether included in hospital care packages, given to individuals undergoing medical treatments, or utilized in projects raising awareness for specific causes, these knitted hearts serve as powerful symbols of compassion and solidarity within the crafting community. 

The collective effort of crafting and donating these hearts embodies the spirit of giving, making a positive impact in the lives of those in need.

Crochet Patterns

If you also love crocheting, check out these patterns

• Crochet Cup Cozy Pattern 
• Free Crochet Heart Pattern {Quick And Easy Amigurumi}

Valentine’s Day Knitting Projects

If you also love knitting, you can check out these patterns. 

• Free Sock Knitting Pattern (Easy + Simple For Beginners)
• Fair Isle Hat Free Knitting Pattern (Hearts Design)
• Regency Red Cable Knit Fingerless Gloves Pattern

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. 

Including how to cast on, how to knit the knit stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows and a list of knitting abbreviations, and more. 

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.  

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the Handylittleme Facebook Group and share a photo.