If you're like me, Christmas is a time for crafting beautiful, handmade treasures. I’ve been creating Christmas ornaments and home décor year-round, and it’s a tradition that fills my heart with joy. This year, I’m excited to share a special Christmas stocking pattern with you. It's part of my love for the holiday season and the handmade touches that make it so special.
LINKS
- Download the Free version of this pattern here.
- Purchase this PDF pattern from my store, Ravelry, or Etsy
- Watch the video tutorial here.
- Save this pattern here on Pinterest.
Why This Christmas Stocking Pattern is Different
What makes this Christmas stocking pattern special? It’s easier to follow than many other patterns! I’ve simplified the heel turning technique, making it much more approachable while still giving you a perfect result. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a beginner, you'll find this pattern is a quick and enjoyable knit.
I’ve designed it as a weekend project, broken down into four manageable sections, making it simple to start and finish in no time. And just imagine when you pull your hand knit stocking out year after year, it will bring back those cherished Christmas memories.
Difficulty Level
The pattern is intermediate, mainly due to the Fair Isle knitting and short rows. But don’t worry-my YouTube tutorial breaks it all down step-by-step! Beginners can definitely take a shot at this project.
Also, if you are not ready to work with a fair isle pattern, you can knit this stocking in a solid color similar to this example.
Time to Complete the Project
This Christmas stocking is designed to be completed in just a weekend. I’ve broken the pattern into four sections, making it easier for you to begin and finish in no time. It’s a fun and fulfilling project that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
Benefits of Knitting This Christmas Stocking
Not only does this stocking make a perfect holiday decoration or gift, but it also complements my matching Christmas tree ornaments and garland patterns! If you’re up for a full themed Christmas, you can knit your own tree ornaments, which can double as gift toppers or the gift itself. Imagine a whole set of handmade treasures to add a personal touch to your tree!
Tips for Beginners
My tip for beginners is simple: break down the project into sections and keep your yarn organized. Remember, this is a gift that will be used and cherished for many years, so take your time and enjoy the process!
Supporting Animals with Your Crafting
I believe in crafting with a purpose. One version of the Christmas stocking pattern (the flat knitted version) is available for free here on the blog. If you'd like to receive a free PDF of the Fair Isle chart, simply comment “Christmas Stocking” below, and I will send you the link!
For those who want the full pattern, which includes both the flat and circular knitting versions, you can purchase it from my website. A portion of the proceeds goes towards my animal charity. You can read more about how your purchase supports animals in need on my charity page.
Thank you for supporting my work, and I can’t wait to see your finished stockings!
Happy knitting and happy holidays! 🎄🧶
✅ Get the Pattern
-
💌 Want the fair isle chart for this pattern?
Comment “Christmas stocking” below and I’ll send you a direct printable link! -
📥 Want the ad-free, printable PDF including two versions of the pattern + photos?
Get it here: A Fair Isle Christmas Stocking (Every purchase supports animal rescue efforts.)
Level of Difficulty ⭐️⭐️
Familiar Beginner. Requires knowledge of the fair isle and short rows. But don't worry if you do not know these stitches -you can watch my step-by-step tutorial here to see the process.
A Fair Isle Christmas Stocking Pattern:
Yarn:
•medium worsted weight yarn #4 -2 colors: color A: 1 ball, color B: 1 ball
* Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash (100% Merino Wool; 220 yds/3.5oz (100g), label gauge: 20-22sts size 6/7 needle) https://amzn.to/4fCNTVb
*Needles: Size 6 straight knitting needles: https://amzn.to/47viDVQ
Cuff
With color A and size 6 straight needles, CO 72sts using long-tail cast-on method.
Work 12 rows of ribbing k1, p1.
Begin leg portion of stocking.
Leg
With chart colors, begin A Fair Isle Christmas Chart knitting rows for leg portion of stocking. Begin with row 1 and continue to finishing row 72. Cut all colors except color A to work heel.
Divide for Heel
Left Heel
With color A and RS facing, knit 56sts. Place these sts onto stitch holder. Knit last 16sts on needle. Work remaining 16 sts with German short rows:
R1: purl 16st
R2 and all even row: work German short row knitwise (see first page for instructions).
R3: purl 15sts
R4-R20: continue German short rows until 5 non-German short row stitches remain on heel finishing a knit row.
R21: purl row, purl 5sts, purl next 11 German short row stitches(purl all double sts as one stitch), purl next 56sts from needle or stitch holder to use for right side heel.
Right Heel
R1: with color A, and RS facing, knit 16sts. Place next 56sts onto stitch holder. Work remaining 16sts on needle with German short rows:
R2 and all even rows: work German short row purlwise
R3: knit 15sts
R4-R20: continue German short rows until 5 sts remain on heel finishing a purl row.
R21: knit 5sts, knit next 11 German short row stitches, making sure to knit all double stitches as on stitch. Next, pickup sts from st holder and knit to end of row (72sts)
Resume foot portion of A Fair Isle Christmas Chart, beginning on row 73. Work rows 73-104 of chart (72sts).
Shaping Toe
With color A only:
R1: *k6sts, k2tog* repeat 9 times (63sts)
R2 and all even rows: purl
R3: *k5sts, k2tog* repeat 9 times (54sts)
R5:*k4sts, k2tog* repeat 9 times (45sts)
R7: *k3sts, k2tog* repeat 9 times (36sts)
R9: *k2 sts, k2tog* repeat 9 times (27sts)
R11: *k1st, k2tog* repeat 9 times (18sts)
R13: *k2tog* repeat 9 times (9sts)
Cut off yarn leaving 12” tail. Thread through remaining 9sts and pull yarn tail to snug stitches to close end of toe. Repeat threading through 9sts one more time if needed to close hole in toe.
Weave in loose end. Block and steam piece before sewing up the seam.
Side Seam With right side of piece facing you, fold piece in half and use vertical invisible seam to close. Start at foot to snug toe.
Hanging Loop With 1-3 strands, hand crochet or braid 6" to use as a hanging loop. Crochet another 10" if attaching pom-poms to the strands. Attach loop to stocking by sewing to seam side, inside of cuff.
Want to share your finished project? I'd love to see it on Instagram @thek4project #k4project.
You can also get patterns for coordinating ornaments to hang on your Christmas tree or use as gift toppers. Just look here for inspiration.
Thank you for reading, and I hope you had fun knitting this project!
💬 Let’s Connect
Have you ever knit while walking? Want to join the movement?
Follow me on YouTube, Strava, and Instagram @thek4project for more patterns, outdoor knit videos, and holiday inspiration.
The K4 Project — crafting joy, changing lives, and helping animals one stitch at a time 🐾
Happy Knitting!🧶❤️
