Shawls and ponchos are the perfect accessories for cooler fall evenings when there's a little nip in the air. They're also fantastic knitting projects that are quick to work up, and a great size for trying a variety of knitting techniques. You can never go wrong knitting a shawl.

Looking for knits that take only a little time but are big on style? We've found 17 free shawl and poncho knitting patterns.

Grab your special skeins of yarn that you've been hoarding and prepare to knit up this versatile and practical accessory.

Alegria Shadow Shawl Free Knitting Pattern

One skein of yarn is all you need to knit this mitered shadow shawl. You knit rows of knit and purl stitches accented by eyelets for the increases. This easy-to-make project knits up surprisingly fast.

Via Noble Knits

Skoosh Knit Shawl

This knit triangular-shaped shawl is worked in one piece, from the top down. Instructions for this shawl are provided in both written and charted format. The knitting chart is very easy to read and ideal for knitters who haven’t followed a chart before.

Via Ravelry

Shadow Knit Shawl

Here’s a gorgeous lightly striped knit shawl that’s the perfect accessory for cool evenings in the spring and fall.

Via Fairmount Fibers

Easy Triangle Shawlette

This particular wrap isn’t so much a pattern as it’s a “how-to” to make a super easy, completely beginner-friendly triangle scarf.  You start with just one, wee little stitch on your needle which is the point of your triangle and will increase from there.

Via Mama In a Stitch

Twig Knit Shawl

This reminds us of a yoga shawl however it has much more drape.  It's a simple, easy knitting pattern that requires minimal thought.

Via A Friend to Knit With

Chevron Cloud Knit Shawl

Chevron Cloud combines wonderfully luxurious yarns and graphic texture in a light, versatile wrap that will make a beautiful addition to any wardrobe. Equally at home over a fancy dress or paired with jeans and a tee, this soft, modern rectangular knit wrap is an easy accessory choice for any occasion.

Via Espace Tricot

Catalunya Color Block Poncho Knitting Pattern

This beautifully draped color block poncho pattern is perfect for beginners and experienced knitters alike.

Via 1 Dog Woof

Triangle Tassel Shawl

This long, skinny knit shawl is a fun way to keep warm, either inside with a cup of tea, or outside tucked into your favorite coat. The tassels on each point add a touch of whimsy but feel free to leave them off if that’s not your style.

Via Yarnspirations (Red Heart)

Whisper Knit Wrap

Summer parties demand some tricky layering strategies. As the moon rises and the air turns nippy, it’s no fun having to cover up your pretty dress with a cardigan or jacket, and yet goosebumps aren’t exactly the perfect party accessory either. And so at times like these, a graceful wisp of a shawl comes in awfully handy!

Via Purl Soho

Dorothea Shawl

Treat yourself to something special! This is a light and airy knit wrap. It's perfect for keeping an evening chill or air conditioning draft off you.

Via Berroco

I Want That Wrap Knitting Pattern

Made with Ella Rae Classic Wool, this asymmetrical knit wrap is not only functional, but it’s also fashionable too.

Via Ravelry

Basic Summer Knit Poncho

Get the hang of poncho knitting with this simple pattern that features a basic poncho shape. With lines of lace constructed from delicate yarn, this is one of those free easy knitting patterns that begs to be worn during the summer.

Via All Free Knitting

Bamboo Wedding Knit Shawl

The absolute, very best way to make your day memorable is to infuse it with details that come from your heart, such as… a beautiful hand-knit shawl!

Via Purl Soho

Mushishi Shawl Free Knitting Pattern

Just one skein of yarn is all you need to knit this easy garter stitch shawl – it makes a very generously sized shawl and is suitable for knitters of all skill levels.

Via Noble Knits

The Age of Brass and Steam Knit Kerchief

The sweet shawl is approx. 53 inches in width and 15 inches from center back to the center point. A single skein of DK weight yarn will yield a kerchief size.

Via Ravelry

 

Champagne Knitted Cowl Pattern

The pattern is easy to memorize. This is important. You want to be able to knit while talking. Or watching tv. Or riding in a car. Or flying in a plane. Or while in a busy coffee shop. If you can avoid having to check your pattern every round, it's mighty helpful and less stressful.

Via Expression Fiber Arts

Kelley's Knit Ponchito

Kelley’s Ponchito is a light and lacy knit poncho crocheted from side to side as a single rectangle and then seamed to create the poncho shape. The neck opening is crocheted last. Kelley’s Ponchito offers a change from the usual wrap and shawl shapes.

Via Ravelry

Hopefully, you've found a knitting project to keep your hands busy and your shoulders warm all winter long.

21 Adorable Knitting Patterns For Babies

20 Easy Knitting Projects Every Beginner Can Do