What’s great about having crafting skills like knitting is that you can use it to make projects for charity.

Lots of people and organizations are on the lookout for people who can donate things for babies, cancer patients and even the homeless. Patterns for charity are perfect for people who love the process of knitting but have already given projects to everyone they know.

These knitting pattern ideas are just a few of what you could make and donate to someone who truly needs it.

There are so many great charities that accept donations. Here are just a handful that we think are great:

• Knitted Knockers
• Binky Patrol
• Pink Slipper Project
• Mother Bear Project
• Knit A Square
• Knots of Love
• Project Linus
• Snuggles Project

Heel Stitch Knit Hat

The Heel Stitch is traditionally used for, you guessed it, the heel of a sock. Designed for its durability and cushioning effect, such a striking texture makes for an incredibly handsome and cozy hat – a great knit hat for men and women alike.

Via Purl Soho

Decorative Toy Balls

Make these hand-knit balls in raffia, hemp, or natural cotton as home décor. Make them in baby yarn for easy, nearly-free baby gifts and charitable donations, or use up scraps as a cool craft for kids.

Via Fine Craft Guild

Maker Monday Hat

It’s a beginner knit hat, but sometimes those are the best.  They take no time at all and they’re super customizable.

Via M Squared Knits

Bitty Beanie

This sweet little-knit hat is an easy pattern that works up in no time! Before donating, make sure you check with the hospital or charitable organization to make sure buttons are allowed.

Via Little Miss Stitcher

Simple Knit Bib Pattern

It’s a very simple and generic bib pattern, which means you can easily make numerous of these for charity. Grab your US size 6 knitting needles and start whipping up this bib ASAP.

Via Kris Knits

Baby Socks

Here are a little pair of socks to keep the babies warm while theyʼre working hard. The traditional work sock colors contrast with the soft yarns chosen for this project.

Via Ravelry

Chemo Cap Knitting Pattern

Choosing the yarn for a knit chemo cap is absolutely critical because the skin can become very sensitive and tender during treatment. It is best to avoid wool or anything that feels scratchy. Also, since they are intended for bare heads, chemo caps should be sized slightly smaller than a regular stocking cap or beanie.

Via The Chilly Dog

Double Seed Stitch Blanket

We love how the simple double seed stitch pattern creates a subtle field of wonderfully nubbly texture. Homespun and sophisticated, the Double Seed Stitch Blanket is so pretty folded at the foot of a bed or over the arm of a couch.

Via Purl Soho

Knit Hooded Baby Poncho

This knit poncho was easy to make and a lovely project to make for charity.

Via Lion Brand

Knit Baby Cardigan Pattern

The cardigan is knit in one piece, from the bottom up, starting with the back. it is worked in garter stitch.

Via Madam Ulma

Knit Baby Janes

There is nothing cuter than a baby's little feet. No wonder we love to knit little baby booties for them. This girly style is perfect for a little princess.

Via Red Heart

Infant Mittens Knitting Pattern

These super simple, super sweet, itty bitty mittens for those new itty bitty persons!

Via Purl Soho

Have you ever donated to charity? Did these small samples of pattern ideas for knitting inspire you to start making something for charity? Once you start, it'll become an addiction, an addiction that makes a positive impact on the world.

If knitting is still a new skill for you and you'd like to take things to the next level so that you can be a confident knitter, check out the professionally filmed Learn to Knit class.

Here are some more fabulous knitting patterns you might want to check out as well:

• Simple Double Knitting Projects
• Adorable Knitting Patterns for Baby Blankets
• One-Skein Knitting Patterns for Beginners