Not sure what to make with your circular knitting machine? Not to worry! This list will give you pattern ideas for every season – from wearables to decor, useful items, and more! Most of these patterns can be created in less than an hour. Grab your knitting machine and some yarn, and enjoy these 21 free circular knitting machine patterns!
Knitting Machine Patterns
It’s not uncommon to get stuck thinking about beanies when you see your circular knitting machine. And hey, beanies are great! But there is SO much more you can do with a knitting machine, even if you’re just starting out!
Within this list, you’ll find a collection of beanies, headbands and bows, handbags, loveys, scarves, pillows, gloves, home decor, and more.
Why use a circular knitting machine?
One of the major benefits of circular knitting machines is that they allow you to create projects much faster than you could with hand knitting. In fact, many knit patterns, such as beanies, headbands, and fingerless gloves, can be finished in 30-60 minutes or even less on a knitting machine.
Because knitting machines involve creating stitches using a hand crank instead of the traditional needle method, a knitting machine can also be less taxing on the hands, especially for those that experience hand or wrist pain.
What can you make with a circular knitting machine?
The options for circular knitting machine patterns are nearly endless! Some of the most popular projects include hats, scarves, gloves, afghans, socks, headbands, loveys and toys, home decor, pillows, scrunchies, handbags, pet sweaters, and more.
21 Free Circular Knitting Machine Patterns
Enjoy these quick and fun circular knitting machine patterns for beginners and more advanced knitters alike!
Bon-Fire Beanie Addi Express
This cozy, bonfire beanie is an excellent project for beginners who are new to using a knitting machine. It’s made by knitting a long tube, then pulling one end through to create a double-layered hat. The pattern includes both written instructions and a video tutorial.
Knitting machine size: 46 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Caron Simply Soft
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Knit Pumpkin Pattern
Decorate for fall with this quick and easy knit pumpkin! This fun little project can be made in less than a half hour. Make lots of them to decorate your home or give them as gifts!
Knitting machine size: 40 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Jeans
Designer: The Yarn Junkie
DIY Headband
You can make adorable headbands in multiple sizes with this versatile Addi knitting machine pattern. Row counts are included for newborn, toddler, and adult sizes. The pattern features a cute X-closure which will require some basic sewing with a yarn needle (photo instructions included).
Knitting machine size: 46 needle
Yarn weight: DK
Suggested yarn: Baby Bee Sweet Delight
Designer: Mariesah Mina
The Double Stranded Beanie
This two-toned beanie can be made on a knitting machine or hand knit. When the brim is folded, it fits a toddler or child, and when unfolded, it works well for a teen or adult. This pattern is made with two types of yarn - one for the liner and one for the main color.
Knitting machine size: 48 needle
Yarn weight: DK and worsted
Suggested yarn: Mustard Yarn Bee Soft & Sleek Yarn and Mustard Yarn Bee Spinesse Yarn
Designer: Savla at Savlabot
Loom Knit Holiday Bag
This knit holiday bag can be made in nearly any size to accommodate different treats and goodies! When knit with a smaller machine, it’s great for a wine bottle or smaller treats. Larger bags are ideal for cookies, candies, or anything else you’d like to give!
Knitting machine size: 40 needle or 46/48 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Fisherman’s Wool & Lion Brand Pound of Love
Designer: Savla at Savlabot
Knit Reusable Water Balloons
Why use regular, plastic water balloons that you have to purchase over and over when you could have fun with reusable balloons? These balloons are enjoyable for kids and adults alike, and won’t leave you with dozens of tiny pieces of plastic to pick up after you’re finished playing.
Knitting machine size: 22 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Bundle Up
Designer: Savla at Savlabot
DIY Rainbow Wall Hanging
This creative rainbow is knit with 7 tubes that have foam dowels inside for shaping. Some sewing is required for stitching your tubes closed. This decorative pattern would make an adorable gift for a child or a new baby’s room.
Knitting machine size: 22 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
Designer: Savla at Savlabot
Teeny Fox Beanie
This precious little hat makes the cutest gift for your favorite little one! This pattern is ideal for size newborn through 9 months, but instructions are also included for larger sizes. It’s designed to be worn folded for little ones and then unfolded as they grow, allowing the beanie to grow with the child.
Knitting machine size: 40 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Heartland
Designer: Savla at Savlabot
Addi Bear Lovey
This cuddly bear is made mostly on a knitting machine, but also utilizes some crochet stitches and techniques. You can use regular, worsted-weight yarn or furry yarn to make these adorable creatures, but you’ll probably want to try making a bear using non-furry yarn first (it’s much easier!).
Knitting machine size: 46 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Yarn Bee Soft & Sleek
Designer: Ashley at a Crafty Concept
Simple 4-Minute Bow
Looking for a super quick project? You’ve found it! These adorable little bows can be attached to either a clip or a headband. Since they’re so quick, it’s easy to make lots of them for any little girls in your life. Both written and video instructions are included.
Knitting machine size: 22 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Shine
Designer: Ashley at a Crafty Concept
Seamless Infinity Scarf
This infinity scarf is made by creating a tube and then grafting the ends together. It’s fun to make using either a solid color or an ombre yarn. This pattern is excellent for gift-giving during the colder months!
Knitting machine size: 46 needle
Yarn weight: Aran
Suggested yarn: Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn!
Designer: Yay for Yarn
Circular Knitting Machine Button Scarf
This traditional button scarf is an easy way to add class and style to your winter wardrobe. It measures approximately 42” long plus an added fringe for a finished look. For the button loop, you’ll need regular, 5mm knitting needles or a 22 needle knitting machine.
Knitting machine size: 46 or 48 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Big Twist Soft Yarn
Designer: Jessica at Crochet It Creations
Colorful Twist Headband
This colorful headband is ideal for both holding hair out of your face and keeping your ears warm in style! After knitting, you’ll lay your headband flat, create a twist, and seam the ends together using the mattress stitch.
Knitting machine size: 46 needle
Yarn weight: Fingering
Suggested yarn: Hawthorne Speckle Hand Painted
Designer: Margaret at Whimsy North
Maci Beanie
This simple beanie features a double brim and is topped off with a fun and fashionable pompom. It’s an ideal fit for adults. A video tutorial is included as well as a written pattern.
Knitting machine size: 46 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: We Are Knitters The Petite Wool
Designer: Margaret at Whimsy North
Addi Boho Towel Ring
Knitted items aren’t for winter only! This modern knitting machine pattern is a beautiful and useful piece to have around at any time of year. It uses less than one skein of yarn, so it’s a great project for using up any extra bits of yarn that you have in your stash.
Knitting machine size: 22 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Designer: Daysck
Tote Bag
This quick tote bag is ideal for summer and fall adventures! When finished, your bag will measure approximately 9” wide by 12” tall. These fast, easy, and versatile bags are wonderful for gift-giving for nearly any occasion!
Knitting machine size: 48 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
Designer: Diana Levine Knits
DIY Knit Wristlet Purse
This clutch has a zip closure and is perfect for keeping your most needed items safe. Throw your phone and keys inside, sling the cord around your arm, and you’re ready to go! When finished knitting, you will need to do some basic sewing to add the zipper to this useful pattern.
Knitting machine size: 40 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
Designer: Diana Levine Knits
Bow Headband
These adorable headbands are available in sizes small, medium, and large. There are tons of ways to customize this cute piece according to your preferences, such as a larger or smaller bow for your band, embellishments, or two-tone options. The video tutorial will walk you through each step of the process!
Knitting machine size: 22 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
Designer: Diana Levine Knits
Knit Throw Pillow
Choose your favorite combination of colors for this happy, striped pillow! It’s filled with stuffing and measures approximately 7” x 15” when finished. This pattern would be great for decorating a bedroom, adding fresh colors to your couch, or giving as a gift.
Knitting machine size: 48 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
Designer: Diana Levine Knits
Knit Fingerless Gloves
Perfect for crafting, typing, or texting, fingerless gloves are an excellent option for keeping your hands warm while still allowing for finger dexterity. When you’ve finished knitting your gloves, you’ll need to seam the tube using the mattress stitch.
Knitting machine size: 48 needle
Yarn weight: Worsted
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
Designer: Diana Levine Knits
Knit Christmas Wreath
Get ready for Christmastime with this quick and fun knitted wreath! It’s shaped using a circular foam form. Enjoy this homey, cozy decoration that can be used year after year.
Knitting machine size: 46 needle (wreath) and 22 needle (bow)
Yarn weight: Aran
Suggested yarn: Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn!
Designer: The Yarn Junkie
Supplies You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create all sorts of patterns on your circular knitting machine.
- Knitting machine (see below for the best brands and size options)
- Yarn
- Tapestry needle
- Crochet hook for finishing and fixing dropped stitches
- Notions (scissors, buttons, foam forms, etc.).
Be sure to read through your pattern to find out if any extra supplies or materials are needed.
Best Yarn for Circular Knitting Machines
When using a circular knitting machine, it’s best to find a smooth-textured yarn that won’t get easily caught up in the pegs. Fluffy yarns can be difficult to use on a circular machine. Worsted weight (category 4) yarns generally work the best. However, some of the patterns below also suggest DK yarns or knitting with two strands of lighter yarn held together.
For your convenience, we’ve linked the ideal yarn for each pattern right here in this post, so you don’t have to worry about finding one that will work well! Some of the most popular yarns for knitting machines include:
- Caron Simply Soft
- Lion Brand Pound of Love
- Lion Brand Heartland
- Red Heart Super Saver
Knitting Machines Sizes
Circular knitting machines come in multiple sizes, and most patterns are specifically designed for a certain size machine.
Knitting machines are sized according to the number of pegs – or needles – they have. 22-, 40-, 46-, and 48-needle machines are among the most common sizes. The difference in machine size allows for creating knitted tubes of different diameters.
Most popular circular knitting machines
Here are some of the most commonly used knitting machines currently on the market.
Addi Express Professional
Addi brand knitting machines are well-known and well-loved for their quality and dependability. The Addi Express Professional has 22 needles and is ideal for scarves, small hats, bows, and headbands.
Addi Express King Size
This machine features 46 needles and will allow you to make all sorts of gifts and projects quickly! It’s lightweight and is great for hats, sweaters, gloves, bags, scarves, and more.
Prym Maxi Knitting Mill Machine
The Prym features 44 hooks and can create tubes up to 12” in diameter. It’s a less expensive option than Addi machines and does not include a row counter – so be sure to grab your stitch markers to keep track! Scarves, bags, and beanies are all good projects for this machine.
Sentro 48 Needle Knitting Machine
The Sentro is a great option for an inexpensive, beginner knitting machine. With this machine, you can quickly make hats, socks, leg warmers, gloves, other clothing items, and more. Sentro has other machine sizes available as well, so there’s no end to the free patterns you can create with a Sentro knitting machine!
More Knitting Patterns
When you’re finished with your project, check out some of these other free knitting patterns.
- 25 Free Scarf Knitting Patterns for Beginners
- 27 Free Loom Knitting Patterns for All Skill Levels
- 25 Free & Easy Sweater Knitting Patterns (Great for Beginners!)
- 27 Free & Easy Knit Hat Patterns
- 25 Free and Easy Knitting Patterns for Beginners
- 25 Free & Easy Cardigan Knitting Patterns (Beginner-Friendly!)
What’s Next?
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