17 Snowflake Knitting Patterns (Free + Festive)

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​In this blog post, 17 snowflake knitting patterns (free + festive) will add a charming touch to your winter decor. 

Each pattern is designed to inspire creativity and bring a bit of that winter magic into your crafting. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, these patterns range in complexity, allowing you to choose what fits your skill level best. 

17 Snowflake Knitting Patterns

Snowflake Knitting Patterns

If you are ready to make your own snowflakes, check out the free patterns below... 

Happy Knitting!

What Are The Different Types of Snowflake Patterns?

There are several types of snowflake patterns, each capturing unique shapes inspired by real snowflakes. 

Simple star snowflakes

Simple star snowflakes are a classic, with basic star-like shapes created using straightforward stitches like knit, purl, and simple increases or decreases. 

These are great for beginners or adding small embellishments to projects. 

Lace snowflakes

Lace snowflakes are more intricate, using openwork techniques like yarn overs and decreases to create delicate, airy designs that mimic real snowflakes. 

Ideal for experienced knitters, lace snowflakes are beautiful as standalone decorations or ornaments. 

Cabled snowflakes

Cabled snowflakes use raised, twisting stitches for added texture and dimension, often resulting in chunkier, three-dimensional snowflakes that add a cozy touch to winter décor.

Hexagonal snowflakes

Hexagonal snowflakes are inspired by the natural hexagonal structure of real snowflakes and often feature symmetrical designs for a realistic look. 

They can range from simple to complex, making them a versatile choice for knitters of all skill levels. 

Colorwork snowflakes

Colorwork snowflakes involve techniques like stranded colorwork or intarsia to incorporate contrasting colors, creating bold, graphic snowflake designs perfect for winter sweaters, scarves, and blankets. 

3D Snowflakes

Lastly, 3D snowflakes use techniques like short rows or multiple pieces to create shapes that pop out, ideal for ornaments or hanging decorations. 

What Is The Best Yarn Weight For Knitted Snowflakes?

The best yarn weight for knitted snowflakes depends on the desired size, texture, and use of the snowflake. 

Lace weight or fingering yarn

Lace weight or fingering weight yarns are ideal for creating delicate, intricate snowflakes that mimic the fine, airy look of real snowflakes. 

These lighter weights allow for detailed lacework, perfect for decorations, ornaments, or appliqués on winter garments. 

Sport weight yarn

Sport weight yarn is also a great choice if you want a slightly more substantial snowflake that retains detail but has a bit more structure, making it suitable for garlands or standalone décor.

Worsted weight yarn

For chunkier, more textured snowflakes, worsted weight yarn can be used, especially if you’re aiming for cozy, cabled, or raised snowflake designs. 

This weight is ideal for creating snowflakes that serve as bold accents on items like hats, blankets, or holiday decorations. 

Keep in mind that lighter yarn weights typically give a more realistic, delicate appearance, while heavier weights can add warmth and a cozy feel. 

There is no right or wrong yarn; you can use any weight, from lace to bulky weight yarn.

What Are The Best Knitting Needles For Snowflakes?

The best knitting needles for knitting snowflakes are double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needles with a short cable if the pattern is knit in the round, as many intricate snowflake designs are. 

Double-pointed needles allow you to work smaller pieces in the round without seams, which is ideal for creating symmetrical, detailed snowflakes. 

If the pattern is knit flat, straight needles can work for simpler designs, but small circular needles or shorter DPNs are often preferred for their maneuverability with delicate stitches. 

Using needles with a sharp tip is beneficial, especially if the pattern includes lacework or fine details, as sharper tips make it easier to execute yarn overs, decreases, and intricate stitch patterns. 

How To Block Knitted Snowflakes?

Blocking knitted snowflakes is essential to help them hold their shape and showcase intricate details, especially for lace or openwork designs. 

Soaking the snowflakes

Begin by soaking the snowflake in lukewarm water for about 5-10 minutes.

You can add a small amount of wool wash if you like. 

After soaking, gently squeeze out the excess water—avoid wringing, as this can distort the shape.

Place the damp snowflake on a blocking mat or a soft surface like a towel. 

Smooth it out with your hands, gently pulling the edges to open up the stitches and achieve the desired shape.

Pin the snowflake into shape

Use rust-proof pins to secure each point or edge of the snowflake. 

Place the pins at the tips of each “arm” and in any other areas that need to be opened up or stretched to reveal pattern details. 

You may need to adjust pins for symmetry as you go.

If the snowflake is 3D or needs extra shaping, you may want to use additional pins or blocking wires for even tension across delicate areas. 

Drying

Allow the snowflake to air dry completely in this pinned position, as this will help it retain its shape.

For snowflakes used as ornaments or decorations, you can apply a light starch or fabric stiffener before drying. 

Mix equal parts water and fabric stiffener or diluted starch, then soak the snowflake briefly before pinning and drying.

Blocking helps your knitted snowflakes look polished, symmetrical, and crisp, making them perfect for display or embellishments.

Learn everything about blocking here – Blocking Knits – How To Block Knitting Guide 

Incorporate The Snowflake Design Into Your Projects…

Snowflake designs can add a beautiful, wintery touch to a variety of knitting projects, making them versatile for both decorative and functional items. 

Snowflake patterns can be featured in colorwork or as textured details on the yoke, cuffs, or hem of a cozy winter sweater or cardigan. 

They add a festive, seasonal touch that’s perfect for holiday wear.

Snowflakes make wonderful motifs on knitted hats, whether as a single snowflake in the center, around the band, or in a repeating pattern. 

They can be added with colorwork, embroidery, or by using cables and textures.

Adding snowflake patterns to scarves or cowls creates a charming winter accessory. 

You can use colorwork

These can be made using colorwork for bold, graphic snowflakes or through lacework for a subtle, elegant design.

Snowflake designs are beautiful on blankets, especially in larger patterns or as part of a patchwork. 

They add seasonal charm to throws and blankets, making them perfect for winter décor or gifts.

Knitting Lessons

If you are new to the craft and need help with the knitting basics, 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. 

This includes how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic stitches, how to knit short rows, and more. 

Also included is a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), a knitting needle size guide, and more.

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

For extra help and to connect with more makers, 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, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, and TikTok. 

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