Knitting Squares For Charity (Free Knit Patterns)

In this blog post, you will learn everything about knitting squares for charity (free knit patterns). 

Knitting squares is a wonderful and meaningful way to give back to the community while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of knitting. 

Whether you are a seasoned knitter or just starting out, this guide will provide you with tips, techniques, and a selection of free patterns to help you create beautiful squares for various charitable organizations.

Why Knit A Square For Charity?

Knitting a square for charity is a simple yet meaningful way to contribute to those in need. 

Squares are easy to knit, making them accessible for beginners and experienced knitters alike, and they can be quickly stitched together to create warm blankets for shelters, hospitals, or disaster relief efforts. 

This small act of kindness not only provides warmth and comfort to those facing hardship but also fosters a sense of community among knitters working toward a common cause. 

Additionally, knitting squares is a great way to use up leftover yarn, making it an eco-friendly and fulfilling way to give back. 

Simple knit squares can be put to good use and made into blankets for vulnerable people. 

Related Post: Knitting For Charity (20 Free Patterns For Knitters)

Where To Send Knitted Squares?    

Before sending your knitted squares, check Facebook groups and local organizations for charity knitting initiatives. 

Many community groups, churches, shelters, and hospitals organize blanket drives and may have specific size or yarn requirements. 

Facebook groups dedicated to charity knitting often provide updates on where donations are most needed and connect you with volunteers who can help assemble blankets. 

Local yarn shops may also have information on nearby donation opportunities. 

Always confirm guidelines before donating to ensure your squares can be used effectively.

Check out these great charities where you can send your hand-knit items…

For locations around the world, take a look at the list below.

Knit-a-Square (South Africa)

Knit-a-Square (KAS) is a well-known charity that collects knitted and crocheted squares to create blankets for orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa. 

They accept 8-inch (20 cm) squares made from warm, durable yarns to help children in need stay warm. 

Volunteers stitch the squares together into blankets, providing comfort and security to those affected by poverty, HIV/AIDS, and abandonment. 

Squares can be mailed to their headquarters in South Africa, but be sure to check their website for updated mailing instructions and guidelines. 

Warm Up America! (USA)

Warm Up America! is a United States based nonprofit that collects 7 x 9-inch (18 x 23 cm) knitted or crocheted squares to assemble blankets for homeless shelters, nursing homes, and those affected by natural disasters. 

Volunteers across the country help join the squares into finished blankets, scarves, and other warm items.

They also encourage local community groups to create and donate completed blankets.

Donations can be sent to their headquarters in Texas, and their website provides up-to-date details on what materials are most needed.

Love Squared (USA)

Love Squared is a Michigan-based nonprofit that collects 8-inch squares to create handmade blankets for children and families in need. 

Their goal is to provide warmth and comfort to children experiencing homelessness or family hardship. 

Knitters and crocheters can send their squares to the organization, where volunteers assemble them into cozy blankets. 

Before donating, check their website for any updates on needed sizes, materials, and mailing addresses.

Bundles of Love (USA – Minnesota)

Bundles of Love is a Minnesota-based charity that provides handmade blankets and clothing to newborns in need. 

They accept knitted squares, which are used to assemble blankets for struggling families. 

The organization also encourages volunteers to participate in local sewing and knitting groups to help complete donations. 

If you’re interested in contributing, visit their website to learn about their guidelines and drop-off locations.

Wrap with Love (Australia)

Wrap with Love is an Australian-based charity dedicated to providing warmth and comfort to people facing extreme cold worldwide. 

They collect knitted and crocheted 8-inch (20 cm) squares, which are sewn together to create blankets for those in need, including refugees, the homeless, and communities affected by natural disasters. 

Volunteers across Australia help assemble the squares into full-sized wraps, which are then distributed through aid organizations. 

Before donating, be sure to check their website for up-to-date guidelines on yarn type, square size, and drop-off locations.

Blankets for Baby Rhinos (International)

Blankets for Baby Rhinos is a global conservation charity that provides knitted and crochet blankets to wildlife orphanages, particularly for young rhinos that have been orphaned due to poaching. 

These handmade squares help keep the animals warm and comforted while they recover in rehabilitation centers. 

The organization also extends its efforts to other rescued wildlife, including elephants and primates. 

They accept knitted and crochet squares in soft, warm yarns, but specific size and material guidelines may vary. 

Check their website or Facebook group for the latest donation instructions and shipping details so you can have the best experience.

Knit for Peace (United Kingdom)

Knit for Peace is a UK-based charity that collects knitted and crocheted squares to assemble into blankets for those in need, including refugees, the elderly, and people in war-torn regions in different countries. 

They accept squares of various sizes and stitch patterns, as well as completed blankets and other handmade items like scarves and hats. 

Volunteers join the squares into full blankets before distributing them across the UK and internationally. 

Donations can be sent to their headquarters, but it’s best to check their website for updated, helpful information on accepted materials, current needs, and mailing instructions.

Stitches of Support (United Kingdom)

Stitches of Support is a UK-based initiative that creates blankets for people going through cancer treatment. 

They accept knitted and crocheted squares, which are joined together into full-sized blankets. 

The project is run through local volunteers and community knitting groups, and donations are distributed to those facing hardship.

While they have periodically paused accepting squares due to an overwhelming response, checking their website or social media pages will provide the latest updates on their needs and donation guidelines.

Always Follow Guidelines

Following guidelines when knitting for charity is essential to ensure that your handmade donations are both useful and accepted by the organization. 

Charities have specific requirements for size, yarn type, and design to meet the needs of their recipients, whether it’s ensuring that baby hats fit properly, that blankets are the right dimensions, or that all items are machine-washable for easy care. 

Ignoring these guidelines may result in items that cannot be used, causing unnecessary waste and extra work for volunteers who have to sort or discard them. 

Some materials, like wool, may trigger allergies, while certain embellishments, such as buttons or beads, can pose a safety risk for infants or vulnerable individuals. 

By carefully reading and following the charity’s instructions, knitters can ensure that their efforts truly benefit those in need, making their time and resources as impactful as possible.

Before sending your knitted squares, check Facebook groups, local hospitals, and local organizations for charity knitting initiatives. 

Many community groups, churches, shelters, and hospitals organize blanket drives and may have specific size or yarn requirements. 

Facebook groups dedicated to charity knitting often provide updates on where donations are most needed and connect you with volunteers who can help assemble blankets.

Local yarn shops may also have information on nearby donation opportunities. It’s Always a good idea to confirm guidelines before donating to ensure your squares can be used effectively.

How Many Squares Do You Need For A Blanket? 

For a baby blanket, using 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) squares, you would need around 20  blanket squares (4 squares wide by 5 squares tall) to create a cozy 32×40-inch blanket. 

If using 7×9-inch (18×23 cm) squares, you would need 24 squares (4 squares wide by 6 squares tall) for a 28×54-inch blanket, though you may need to adjust for a more balanced size. 

Baby blankets are often smaller, so the number of squares required depends on the charity’s size recommendations or personal preference.

For a lap blanket (suitable for adults or wheelchair users), an 8×8-inch square design would require 30 squares (5 squares wide by 6 squares tall) to create a 40×48-inch blanket. 

A full-sized adult blanket may need 48 squares (6 squares wide by 8 squares tall) for a 48×64-inch coverage. 

If using 7×9-inch squares, a lap blanket would typically need 42 squares (6 squares wide by 7 squares tall) for a 49×54-inch finished size. 

For a large full-size blanket, you may need around 80-100 squares, depending on the dimensions you’re aiming for. 

Always check with the charity’s guidelines to ensure the correct size before knitting.

What to Research Before Knitting Squares for Donation

Here are key questions to ask before starting your project, along with quick answers to guide your research:

1. What size should the squares be?

Different organizations might want different sizes, but most charities request 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm) or 7 x 9 inches (18 x 23 cm), but check their specific requirements.

2. What type of yarn should I use?

Typically, machine-washable, durable yarn (acrylic or wool blends) is preferred. Avoid delicate or scratchy fibers.

Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers 

3. Are there any color restrictions?

Some organizations prefer bright and cheerful colors, while others may have specific needs (e.g., neutral tones for veterans).

4. Should the edges be finished in a special way?

Most groups prefer even edges to make it easier to sew squares together. Avoid curling edges (like stockinette stitch).

5. Should I wash the squares before donating?

Some organizations require clean, fragrance-free squares; others wash them before assembling.

Check donation guidelines.

6. How should I package and mail them?

Some charities prefer squares stacked flat in envelopes, while others may have drop-off locations.

Confirm mailing instructions.

7. Can I join squares together before donating?

Some charities want individual squares, while others accept fully assembled blankets.

Always check before sewing them together.

What Else Can You Make With Knitted Squares? 

Knitted squares are incredibly versatile and can be used to create a variety of handmade items. 

One of the most popular uses is sewing them together to make blankets. 

They can also be turned into cushion covers, tote bags, scarves, or even patchwork sweaters by creatively assembling different colors and textures. 

Smaller squares can be stitched into coasters, potholders, or stuffed toys, while larger ones can be folded into pouches or baby garments.

With a little creativity, knitted squares can become beautiful and functional projects beyond just blankets.  

What Else Should I Knit For Charity?

Knitting for charity is a wonderful way to use your skills to help those in need. 

Some of the most requested knitted items include woolly hats, beanies, scarves, and socks for the homeless, chemo caps for cancer patients, and preemie hats and bonding squares for newborns in NICUs (neonatal intensive care units). 

Homeless shelters often need warm, durable accessories like thick socks, knitted hats, a pair of mittens, and cowls to help people stay warm in cold weather. 

Hospitals appreciate soft, hypoallergenic baby hats for premature babies and baby blankets, while dementia care centers benefit from twiddle mitts, which provide sensory stimulation for patients. 

If you’re an animal lover, you can also knit pet blankets and small handmade toys for rescue animals in shelters. 

Check the guidelines before you start…

Before starting, it’s important to check with the charity or organization to see what items they need most and if they have any specific guidelines. 

Many groups prefer machine-washable yarns, as they are easier to care for, and some have size or color preferences. 

Whether you choose a simple garter stitch scarf or a more intricate baby blanket, your handmade creation will bring warmth, comfort, and joy to someone in need. 

Knitting for charity is not only rewarding but also a great way to use up extra yarn and practice new skills while making a real difference in the world. 

There are no specific charity knitting patterns section you need to follow; any pattern can be for a good cause or adapted to fit certain guidelines.

But if you are planning to knit for a specific organization, it doesn’t hurt to check out the patterns they offer to make sure your preferred one fits the criteria. 

Different Charities You Need To Check Out:

• The Big Knit – Innocent Drinks & Age UK
• The Donkey Sanctuary 
• Knitted Knockers 
• Mother Bear Project 
• Binky Patrol 
• Alice’s Embrace
• The Red Scarf Project 
• Battersea Dogs And Cats Home
• Knots Of Love
• Project Linus

How Knitting For Charity Benefits You

Beyond helping others, knitting for charity also benefits the knitter. 

It’s a wonderful way to use up extra yarn, practice your knitting skills, and stay connected with a greater purpose. 

Many knitters find it therapeutic and fulfilling, knowing that their work is making a difference.

Additionally, joining the charity knitting and crafting community fosters a sense of fellowship, allowing crafters to share patterns, stories, and encouragement.

Whether knitting a simple scarf or a detailed blanket, every stitch contributes to a greater cause, spreading warmth and compassion in the world.

The art of knitting has also a great impact on our mental health. 

Related Post: Knitting Therapy – Why Knitting Is Good For You!

Knitting Lessons

If you are learning how to knit, check out more free how-to resources 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.

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

For extra help and to connect with fellow knitters, check out the Handylittleme Facebook group. 

If you also love to crochet, check out easy patterns here – Free Crochet Patterns

You can also find us on social media, Ravelry, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, and TikTok.

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