Butterflies are a common source of inspiration for all sorts of artists, and their colors and shapes are a lot of fun for knitters, too. Check out these knitting patterns that include butterfly motifs.
If you want to start simple, try this knit and purl butterfly washcloth pattern from Daisy and Storm. This project uses DK weight yarn and can be used as a washcloth if knit in cotton, or use other fibers and knit a bunch to make a blanket. Both written and charted patterns are included.
You can also make butterflies with eyelets as on this blanket knitting pattern from Knit Hit Shop. The pattern notes say “medium or somewhat heavier yarn,” but given that the pattern also calls for a US4/3.5 mm knitting needle I feel like you might want sport weight or DK yarn instead. It’s meant to be a throw blanket size, so hitting the exact measurements probably isn’t vital.
I also like the mosaic knit Butterfly Flight pattern, which can be used a coaster or potholder, depending on what weight of yarn you use. The pattern is by Arella Seaton and calls for worsted weight to make a washcloth or fingering or sport weight to make a colorful set of coasters. You can find the pattern on Ravelry.
If monarchs are your favorite, you can try the Monarchs of the Central Coast beanie pattern from Nancy Bates (Ravelry), which calls for worsted weight yarn and fits an average adult.
Swallowtail fans can stitch up the Swallowtail sweater from Jamie Hoffman, which calls for fingering weight yarn and is a top down circular yoke pattern with stranded colorwork as well as stripes. The pattern comes in 10 sizes with a chest measurement from 28 to 64 inches (71 to 162.5 cm) and you can find it on Ravelry.
How about some butterfly socks? Coriander’s Butterfly Sock (Ravelry) features butterflies around the leg and on the heel flap. These short socks are worked from the top down and there are eight sizes available in this free pattern download.
