About us
Free patterns and outfit ideas since 1995
Pattern Works shares high quality, free crochet, knitting and sewing patterns from the latest designers, plus outfit ideas that show how to wear what you make.
1995Founded
3Crafts
FreePatterns
Our story
A pattern library that grew into a style guide
Elizabeth Swann created Pattern Works on June 22, 1995. From the start, the idea was simple: gather the best free crochet, knitting and sewing patterns in one place, so makers could spend less time searching and more time making.
Pattern Works still does that today, with patterns from the latest designers in each craft. Because a finished piece is only half the story, we also publish outfit ideas: how to style a crochet top, a cardigan or a beanie with the clothes already in your wardrobe.
Every outfit guide sits in a clear category, from sweaters and dresses to granny square pieces, so you can start from what you want to make or wear today.
“Make it by hand, then wear it with confidence.”
The idea behind Pattern Works
Meet the founder
Elizabeth Swann
One person writes, edits and checks every article on Pattern Works.
Founder, writer, editor & author
Elizabeth Swann
Elizabeth Swann founded Pattern Works on June 22, 1995. She is the site’s writer, editor and author, and a fashion stylist and designer with deep knowledge of crochet, knitting and sewing. She brings free patterns from today’s designers together and shows how handmade pieces turn into outfits you will want to wear.
Our mission
Five promises behind every article
Pattern Works exists to help you make something by hand and wear it well.
- Bring free crochet, knitting and sewing patterns from today’s designers into one place.
- Credit every designer and link straight to the original pattern.
- Show how a handmade piece fits into a real outfit, season by season.
- Keep patterns and ideas for every skill level, from a first project to a full garment.
- Keep everything free to read and easy to browse.
What we cover
Crochet, knitting and sewing, from pattern to outfit
Articles are organized by craft and garment, so the next idea is always one click away.
Free Crochet Patterns
Free crochet patterns from talented designers, gathered into easy roundups by project.
Crochet Outfit Ideas
Outfit ideas for every crochet garment, with the pieces, shoes and layers that go with it.
Crochet Tops
Tanks, crop tops, halters and blouses styled for warm days and layered seasons.
Crochet Sweaters
Pullovers, chunky knits and sweater vests styled for cool and cold months.
Crochet Hats and Beanies
Beanies, bucket hats, berets and sun hats paired with complete outfits.
Granny Square Crochet
Patchwork cardigans, tops and accessories built from the classic motif.
Crochet Outfit Ideas Crochet Tops Crochet Sweaters Crochet Cardigans Crochet Dresses Crochet Skirts Crochet Hats and Beanies Crochet Scarves Crochet Shawls Crochet Ponchos Granny Square Crochet Free Crochet Patterns
Editorial standards
How we make and update our articles
Here is how an article is made at Pattern Works, and the principles behind everything we publish.
01
Choosing
We start with what makers are looking for: a pattern to try, or a way to wear a finished piece.
02
Finding designers
We look for free patterns from current designers and check that each link works.
03
Styling
For outfit ideas, Elizabeth pairs each handmade piece with clothes, shoes and layers that suit it.
04
Editing
Every article is read again for accurate details, working links and clear wording before it goes live.
05
Updating
We revisit articles, replace broken links and correct reported errors.
Our principles
One accountable author
Elizabeth Swann writes and edits the articles on Pattern Works. We never put a name on work that person did not do.
Credit for designers
Patterns belong to the designers who created them. We credit the designer and link to the original pattern page.
Free to read
Every pattern roundup and outfit idea on the site is free to read.
Independent choices
We choose what to publish on its merits. If an article ever includes sponsored content or affiliate links, we will say so clearly on that page.
Image credit and removal
If you see your image or design on Pattern Works and want it credited differently or removed, contact us and we will sort it out.
Corrections welcome
If you spot an error, email elizabeth@patternworks.com. We review every report and update the article when a correction is needed.
Get in touch
We’d love to hear from you
Questions about an article, corrections, image credit requests or collaboration ideas all reach Elizabeth. Visit our contact page or email us.