LAYERS Knit Book: 19 Knitting Patterns to Style, Drape & Flatter

by Kristin Omdahl

Knitting beautiful things is such an important part of my life. But what is the point of making beautiful things if you don’t feel beautiful wearing them? My goal in writing Layers Knit Book is to share my knowledge of fashion, design, and knitting with you. This collection of wearable knitting patterns is versatile for all of your adventures – from sunset beach picnics to afternoon art festivals; from live and local acoustic concerts to weekend getaways; from lunch with your friends to hosting a little get together; and beyond.

Learning is such a personal experience and each of us learns in a unique way. In Layers Knit Book please enjoy the written instructions, charts, and supplemental video tutorials on my website to enhance your experience. This entire book is printed in larger font to make reading it as simple and easy as possible. I am so excited to share this book with you. I hope you enjoy making (and wearing) this collection as much as I do!

Each pattern is also available as a single PDF download. Click on any of the images below for more information about each individual pattern.

Watch all of the video tutorials for the Layers Knit Book pattern collection here:

Browse the Individual Patterns from Knit Layers Book below:

Video
Video
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#4 Worsted Weight Yarn

Zoe Knit Cowl

$3.99

Browse all 19 Knitting Patterns Here

Abby Knit Lace Wrap Pattern

Abby Shawl Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin OmdahlThis rectangular lace shawl is elevated into a gorgeous, draped wrap with the addition of a simple tab closure. This reversible wrap is worked side to side, and the seed stitch border is knit simultaneously with the graphic lace pattern.

What you will need:

  • 495 yds (452.6 m) #1 fingering weight yarn

  • US 11 (8mm) circular knitting needles

  • US 4 (3.5mm) knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

1 ball Be So Lush Yarn; 51% organic cotton / 49% bamboo; 495 yds (452.6 m) per 4oz (113g); color Waters Run Deep

Annaliese Knit Lace Skirt Pattern

Annaliese Skirt Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin OmdahlThis seamless, knit in-the-round lace skirt begins with the drawstring casing and continues from the top down in a beautiful, delicate lace pattern. The edging is worked perpendicularly to the last round of the skirt which allows you to simultaneously binds off all the stitches.

What you will need:

  • 540 (600, 660, 730, 800) yds  or 493.6 (656.4, 722, 798.6, 875.2) m #2 sport weight yarn

  • US5 (3.25mm) circular knitting needles for skirt and double pointed needles for icord

  • US 8 (5mm) circular knitting needles

  • Contrast yarn for provisional cast-on

  • Stitch Marker

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

2 (3, 3, 3, 3) balls Be So Fresh Yarn; 100% linen; 315 yds (297m) per 3.5oz (100gm); color Foam

Finished Sizes:

36 (40, 44, 48, 52) in  or 91 (102, 112, 122, 132)cm hips

28 in (71cm) length

Annika Knit Necklace Pattern

Annika Necklace Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin OmdahlThis necklace is made using the simplest of knitting techniques: the Icord. But it is elevated to a whole new level with a celtic heart knot pendant and sequined, textured yarn.

What you will need:

  • 140 yds or 128m #4 worsted weight yarn

  • US 8 (5mm) double pointed knitting needles

  • 1 27mm lobster clasp

  • 3 5mm jump rings

  • 2 pair of chain nosed pliers or bend nose pliers

Shown in:

1 ball Be So Tender Yarn; 100% organic cotton; 140 yds or 128 m per 3.5 oz (100 gm); color Seafoam

1 ball Be So Dazzling Yarn; 100% polyester sequin yarn; 100 yds (91.4m) per 0.88 oz (25gm) spool; color Silver.

NOTE: Both yarns are held together throughout project.

Bibiana Knit Pullover Pattern

Bibiana Top Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin OmdahlThis seamless,  knit in-the-round pullover is reversible! Both sides of the ribbed lace stitch pattern are unique and equally beautiful. It has a top down construction, a round yoke, and a beautifully tapered body with hip ease. The sleeves are picked up and worked seamlessly onto the armholes. This pretty pullover has a lot of feminine details. Pair it with a flowy skirt, slim pants or jeans.

What you will need:

  • 600 (680, 750, 825, 910) yds or 548.6 (621.8, 685.8, 754.4, 832,1) cm #2 sport weight yarn

  • US5 (3.75mm) circular knitting needles

  • US6 (4mm) circular knitting needles

  • Stitch Marker

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

2 (3, 3, 3, 3) balls Be So Sporty Yarn; 100% bamboo; 325 yds (297m) per 4oz (113gm); color Caribbean Turquoise

Celeste Beaded Knit Scarf Pattern

Celeste Scarf Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin OmdahlThis asymmetrical shawl is knit side to side with a pretty scalloped edging. The star beads are added to the points of the edging.

What you will need:

  • 500 yds #1 fingering weight yarn

  • US4 (3.5mm) knitting needles

  • (72) 12 mm glass star beads

  • Wide eye, collapsible beading needle

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

Be So Toasty Yarn; 65% superwash merino wool / 35% bamboo; 590 yds (539 m) per 4oz (113 g); color Inferno.

Claire Knit Pullover Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl

This is a minimally shaped pullover, knit in separate pieces and sewn together at the end. The beauty of this textured yarn is enhanced by the subtle stitch pattern. Instructions are given for an off-the-shoulder  neckline or a narrower neckline.

What you will need:

  • 700 (805, 925, 1064, 1224, 1407) yds or 640 (736, 845, 973, 1119, 1287) m #4 worsted weight yarn

  • US8 (5mm) knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

Shown in:  

5 (6, 7, 8, 9, 10) balls of Be So Tender Yarn; 100% organic cotton, worsted weight; 140 yds per 3.5oz ball; color Cloud

Finished sizes:

36 (40, 44, 48, 52, 56) in or 91.4 (101.6, 111.8, 121.9, 132, 142.2) cm bust

Shown in size 36

Desna Knit Shrug Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl

Desna Shrug Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This is a super simple construction technique of turning any rectangle into a fitted shrug. The lace rectangle is worked side to side from the center out. The short sides are sewn to create sleeves, and the collar is worked around the perimeter by working into the end of each row.

What you will need:

625 (690, 760, 840, 925) yds  or 570 (630, 700, 770, 854m) #4 worsted weight yarn
US10.5 (6.5mm) knitting needles
Yarn needle
Scissors

shown in:

Be So Tender Yarn; 100% organic cotton; 140 yds (128m) per 3.5oz (100g); color Lagoon; 5 (5, 6, 6, 7) balls

Shrug fits 36 (40, 44, 48, 52) in or 91 (101, 112, 122, 132) cm bust circumference sized for S (M, L, XL, 2X)

Emilia Knit Fringe Vest Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl

Emilia Shrug Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This delightfully light and airy layering piece begins with two simple rectangles. Sew up the back only for a ruana, the back and sides for a vest, or the back, sides and front for a poncho. The fringe adds body and bohemian flair.

What you will need:

  • 600 (690, 790) yds or 549 (631, 722) m #2 sport weight yarn

  • US 10.5 (6.5mm) knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in: 

Be So Soulful Yarn; 87% bamboo, 13% Sorona; 380 yds (347m) per 3.5 oz (100g); Pink/Coral; 2 (2, 3) balls

Gabrielle Knit Lace Cape Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl

Gabrielle Cape Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This gorgeous wrap is a top down knit, half hexagon with self-ties incorporated into the cast on edge.

What you will need:

  • 475 yds or (434 m) #4 medium, worsted weight yarn

  • US10 (6mm) knitting needles

  • US 6 (4mm) knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

  • Stitch markers

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

(2) balls Be So Bold Yarn; 51% organic cotton, 49% bamboo; 247 yds (225m) per 4oz (113g); shown in color Mia’s Malachite Meadow

Gia Knit Hat Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl

Gia Hat Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This is a deceptively simple stitch pattern that is incredibly warm and insulating due to the fluctuating stitch count. The sequin yarn elevates an otherwise simple hat into a glam accessory sure to brighten the gloomiest of days!

What you will need:

100 yds (91 m) each of #4 worsted weight yarn and a carry along sequin yarn

US11 (8mm) knitting needles

Yarn needle

Scissors

Stitch marker

Shown in:  

Be So Brave Yarn; 100% American Merino Wool; 120 yds per 2oz (56g) ball; color Picket Fence, 1 ball

Be So Dazzling Yarn; 100% polyester; 100 yds (91m) per 25 gm spool; color gold, 1 spool

Jenna Knit Cape Poncho Pattern

Jenna Poncho Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This is a top down, raglan-yoke-style  construction, knit in an unconventional way. The yoke is separated into two pieces: back/sleeves and front. The laced cords pull the raglan yoke back together for a flattering upper body. The open sides allow for free range of motion. Pair it with boots, skinny jeans and a turtleneck sweater.

What you will need:

  • 700 yds or (640 m) #4 worsted weight yarn

  • US 5 (3.75mm) knitting needles

  • US8 (5mm) knitting needles

  • G/6 (4mm) crochet hook

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

(6) balls of Be So Brave Yarn; 100% American Merino Wool; 120 yds (109 m) per 2oz (56 g); color Waves of Grain.

Kayla Knit Mobius Cowl Pattern

Kayla Cowl Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This openwork stitch pattern is delicate and lacy yet quite simple to knit. The mobius has a beautiful twist that not only allows the cowl to lie flat, but it also beautifully frames the face.

What you will need:

  • 300 yds (274 m) #2 sport weight yarn

  • US 6 (4mm) knitting needles, one extra needle for 3 needle BO

  • 1 yd or 1 m contrast yarn for cast on

  • Stitch marker

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

1 ball Be So Sporty BLING Yarn; 90% bamboo / 10% silver; 300 yds (274 m) per 4 oz (113g); color Shu Sugi Ban

Finished Size:

26 in (66 cm) circumference

11 in (28 cm) tall

Maisie Beaded Knit Cowl Pattern

Maisie Cowl Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl With these luminous, large hole pearl beads you can bead your knitting without needing to pre-string the beads onto the yarn first! This gorgeous yet simple cowl is enhanced by the diamond pattern created by the pearls.

What you will need:

  • 120 yds or (109) m #4 worsted weight yarn

  • US 8 (5mm) circular knitting needles

  • (147) 8mm large hole pearl beads

  • B/1 (2.25mm) crochet hook

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors Scissors

Shown in:  

1 ball Be So Brave Yarn

Samantha Knit Lace Shawl Pattern

Samantha shawl pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl Worked as a reversible fabric, this magical wrap showcases a beautiful mixture of two yarns held together. The drop stitches add texture, exquisite drape, and jaw-dropping drama.

What you will need:

  • 350 yds  or 320 m #1 fingering weight yarn

  • 350 yds (320 m) sequin yarn

  • US 6 (4mm) knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

  • Stitch markers

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

  • 1 ball of Be So Fine BLING Yarn; 90% bamboo / 10% silver; 575 yds (525m) per 4 oz (113 g); color Mermaid 02

  • 4 balls of Be So Dazzling Yarn; 100% polyester sequin novelty yarn; 100 yds (91 m) per 25 gm spool.

Note: The two yarns are held together throughout the project.

Finished Size:

60 in (152 cm) wide x 20 in (51 cm) tall

Skyla Beaded Knit Headband Pattern

Skyla Headband Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl Headbands are a great, small project for learning a new technique. This textured stitch pattern takes a minute to learn, but a lifetime to enjoy. I love to accessorize with headbands the way I accessorize with jewelry: a pop of complementary color to your outfit. Adding beads to the self ties adds weight that helps keep the ties in place.

What you will need:

  • 200 yds or 183 m #1 fingering weight yarn

  • US 5 (3.75 mm) double pointed knitting needles for cords

  • US 5 (3.75 mm) circular or straight knitting needles for headband

  • Yarn needle

  • (10) 8 mm large hole charm beads

Shown in:  

(1) ball of Be So Fine BLING Yarn; 90% bamboo / 10% silver, 4oz (113g) and 575 yd (525m); color Sunrise 07.

Note: Double pointed knitting needles can be used for headband. If you prefer, you can use stitch blockers on the ends to protect the stitches from falling off.

Finished Size:

4 in (10 cm) wide

18 in (45.7 cm) long

9 in (23 cm) cords

Tasha Knit Lace Shawl Pattern

Tasha Shawl Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This exquisite lace shawl has classic Faroese shawl shaping: from the center gusset to the shoulder shaping in the side panels. This project is knit from the top down with a seamless selvedge border, and finished with a delicate picot bind off.

Virginia Beaded Knit Lace Scarf Pattern

Virginia Scarf Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl This gorgeous scarf is a great way to practice shaping in a stitch pattern. The addition of beads along the scalloped edge transforms this scarf into a gorgeous necklace-style accessory to beautifully frame your face.

What you will need:

  • 300 yds or 274 m #1 fingering weight yarn

  • US 5 (3.75 mm) knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

  • (180) 4mm bicone crystal beads

  • Stitch markers

  • Beading needle

  • Scissors

Shown in:  

  • Be So Fine Yarn; 100% bamboo, #1 fingering weight yarn; 650 yds (594 m) per 4 oz (113 g); color Pink Damask.

  • 4mm Preciosa bicone crystal beads, color Crystal AB.

Finished Size:

5 in (12.7 cm) wide x 75 in

(190.5 cm) long

Zoe Knit Cowl Pattern

Zoe Cowl Pattern from Layers Knit Book by Kristin Omdahl Worked in the round in a beautiful offset textured pattern, this is a seamless one ball project. Perfect for a last minute gift and even better as a great way to show off some extra-special yarn. Pattern includes written instructions and a chart with key.

What you will need:

  • 214 yds (195m) #4 worsted weight yarn

  • US 10.5 (6.5mm) circular knitting needles

  • Yarn needle

  • Scissors

shown in:  

Be So Brave Gradient Yarn; 100% American Merino Wool; 214 yds (195m) per 3.5oz (100g); color Violet Berries