Knitted Dorm Life Essentials: Interweave Favorites

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When I was in college, my mom knit me two hats to keep me warm during the winter months, and what a perfect gift. I still wear them today. If I had known how to knit at that time, I would have made even more essentials for university life. We’ve compiled our favorite must-have knitting projects for dorm life, to inspire parents and college students to make college feel like home.

Above: The cozy Rubellite Mitts, by Krista Ann, are perfect for warm drinks in a chilly dorm. Available as part of the Interweave Favorites: University Knits pattern collection.

From handknit décor to adorable hats, these quick knitting projects are great for getting you or a loved one started on campus! You can get each pattern on its own, or get the whole collection to live your most cozy, stylish dorm life.

Fisherman’s Hat

Crochet bucket hats are a major trend right now. These floppy-style hats are a must-have during the hot summer months, and even into the fall semester. The Fisherman’s Hat, designed by Sheryl Thies, is the knitted version of a crocheted bucket hat. It will protect your face from the sun when walking to class and is perfect for weekend getaways. Add embellishments for an extra touch of fun.

Calcite Pillow

Add some personality to your dorm room with Hannah Rose’s Calcite Pillow. This is a great project for beginners and will easily brighten up your space. This pillow is knit in just two pieces worked back and forth in stockinette stitch. For the center color, use reverse stockinette as an accent and change in texture. Choose fun colors of your choice and get to stitching!

Rubellite Mitts

Throughout the course of the semester, you could always find me with a cup of hot coffee in my hands. Coffee is essential for early morning classes and with the Rubellite Mitts, created by Krista Ann, holding your piping cup o’ joe will be a breeze. These are great for beginners who’ve not yet worked short-rows. These mitts are created in garter stitch and feature a simple thumbhole.

Chunky Knit Pouf

Relax after a long day of classes by propping your feet up on a plush pouf. The Chunky Knit Pouf, designed by Cara Corey, is a comfy cushion to add to your space. Not only does it help make a dorm room cozy, but it is also practical as a seat when friends stop by your dorm room.

Slouchy Ribbed Hat

Bulky knit hats are an absolute must in the winter. They are cute and some, like the Slouchy Ribbed Hat, by Shannon Cook, are a piece of cake to complete. This pattern allows you to customize the hat as you wish. Make it have more slouch or less, with a pom-pom or without. You can easily create several different hats with this quick-to-knit pattern.

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Keep cozy during your time on campus with the Interweave Editors’ favorite projects for college. Send your loved one off with some goodies before the semester begins, or if you’re a student, knit these during your breaks for stress relief and fun!

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Favorite Knitting Projects for Dorm Life