10 Romantic Knitting Patterns

These patterns are great for knitting for Valentine's Day, a special anniversary, or just because.

By: Kristi Levy, Editor, AllFreeKnitting.com

Whether you're planning to knit for a date night or knitting for valentine's day, romantic knitting patterns are what you're looking for. These ten patterns run the gamut when it comes to romance, spanning everything from gifts to your loved one to cute outfits for a romantic night out. While knitting seems like a solitary activity sometimes, the truth is that everything we knit serves a purpose, and sometimes that purpose is a little courtship.

I like to keep some of these patterns in my back pocket for Valentine's knitting; since I'm not all that great at paper crafts, every February, I opt to knit my husband a heart instead, be it in the form of a coaster or a pillow. It's a little dorky, but it's a tradition the two of us have grown to cherish. Growing up, my parents used to give me a little something for Valentine's Day; knits would be a cute idea if you're the kind of parent who does the same.

That said, these romantic knitting patterns are definitely geared towards you and your partner. Click around and find your favorite!

1. Sweetish Subtlety Hat

For a subtle hint of romanticism, this Sweetish Subtlety Hat is our top pick. Not only can you wear this out to the grocery store or for a walk with your dog, you can wear it on a romantic moonlit stroll with your sweetheart on Valentine's Day. Talk about versatile!

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2. Hanging Heart

Another great way to get into the Valentine's spirit is with decor. Romantic knitting patterns like this Hanging Heart will help to set the mood for your special date night (as a bonus, kids and guests will find it adorable). We recommend varying the length of the string and the colors of the hearts for ultimate atmosphere.

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3. Warming Hearts Knitted Shawl Wrap

You might want to dress a little sexy for your significant other on Valentine's Day, but that doesn't change the fact that for most of us here in the northern hemisphere... February is freakin' cold. The Warming Hearts Knitted Shawl Wrap is lacy, so you can still get a peek of the cute outfit underneath, but you won't freeze to death. Plus, the hearts keep it festive.

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4. Two of Hearts

If you're looking for a way to make your knitting a little more romantic, you can slap this Two of Hearts on just about anything. Go simple and make an afghan full of these beautiful cabled hearts, or hide it in a cabled cardigan you're knitting for your husband. It would even make an excellent dishcloth if you're looking for an elegant way to incorporate some Valentine's festivities into your knitting.

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5. Lacework Sweater

Do you have your date night outfit planned? Romantic knitting patterns like this Lacework Sweater are the way to go if you're trying to not freeze but still look like a million dollars. The delicate appearance of the yarn and lacy stitchwork in this sweater are perfect for a candlelit dinner.

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6. Heart Placemat

Maybe you're making a romantic home-cooked meal, or even just having some drinks or coffee at home before heading off to your date. Something like this Heart Placemat is an adorable idea to start off your night. The best part about this easy seed stitch knit is that you can keep it out all of February to celebrate Valentine's Day with all those who you love.

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7. Men's V-Neck Cable Cardigan

What about your date's outfit? Otherwise, maybe you're a guy knitter looking to find the perfect romantic outfit for your Valentine's Day. This Men's V-Neck Cable Cardigan toes the line between "I'm just a sweet, shy guy you can bring home to Mom" and "I'm a total heartthrob." If you're knitting this for your sweetheart, just make sure you're married first, lest you fall victim to the sweater curse.

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8. V-Day Knit Dishcloths

What's more romantic than dishes? (Kidding, obviously.) Another great way to incorporate some romantic knitting patterns into your decor is by suping up your kitchen. These patterns are especially perfect if you and your loved one do the dishes together. It's sure to put a smile on their face, even if they're cleaning up after Valentine's Day dinner.

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9. Heart Full of Love Pillow

I'm a cozy person, myself; nothing beats a snuggly blanket, a pair of sweatpants, and a date night in. If your significant other is a napper, or you just want to add a couple of cute throw pillows to your Valentine's Day decor, this Heart Full of Love pillow is the way to go. While we love it in hot pink, it will look tasteful and elegant in whatever colors you already have in your bedroom or living room.

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10. Happy Hearts Hat

The Happy Hearts Hat is the kind of romantic knitting pattern that you can wear every single year. In fact, I have one of these and I wear it regularly from November through March, since the hearts are subtle enough to not feel exclusively made for Valentine's Day. That said, you can definitely stick to the bright red or pink color scheme if you're looking for something obviously romantic.

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