Why opt for free patterns?
It seems like a simple enough query, but there are a few different reasons people choose free patterns over those that cost money.
One massive consideration is that if a pattern is free, there is less of a feeling of obligation to use it, even when it’s downloaded to your computer. This means that there’s no risk for the knitter; if the pattern turns out to be badly written or not to your taste, you may simply discard it, without the disappointment that you have passed over hard-earned cash for something that holds no worth to you.
For beginner knitters, downloading several free knitting patterns for similar items might be a helpful part of the deliberation process. Some patterns are more suited to us than others—and it is only by comparing the style and manner in which alternatives are written that we can develop our own style, and progress further along our knitting journey.
And finally, if you can find a free pattern that works for you, why not use it? There are a wide variety of patterns out there, from gorgeous checkered scarves to fleece teddy bears to beautiful cushion covers. Even if we don’t end up using the pattern, it can help inspire our latest project, giving us a springboard from which to work. Skilled knitters may even settle for a close match to their dream design, and adapt the pattern to their requirements as they go.
Are free patterns as good as those you have to pay for?
For some, free patterns may be seen as cast-offs. It is common to associate value with cost; even to determine one by the other. Designer clothes labels illustrate this well. When applied to knitting, we all know that patterns take time and energy to produce. If one is being distributed for free, does that mean that it’s likely to be no good?
It is, of course, possible that you’ll come across the odd ‘bad’ pattern amongst a bunch of free downloads but there are plenty of valid reasons why a designer may offer one or two high quality freebies.
For those who make their living within the crafting industry, free patterns are first and foremost a marketing tool—often produced alongside a more extensive paid range. They are used to give customers a taste of the designer’s style; those who enjoy knitting their pattern may well return to that website when thinking about their next project, even if that means paying. Equally, impressed knitters are more likely to recommend the name to others, increasing the potential for future sales.
It is, therefore, in the designer’s best interests to produce a pattern both representative of their brand, and also of a standard that they are happy to associate their name with.
The motives of others, who have a passion—but no professional interest—in knitting, may appear more altruistic. They are making the pattern out of pure enjoyment, or as a personal challenge. It might never have even crossed their mind to charge for the privilege of replicating the design.
And while they don’t have so great a reputation to maintain, it is worth remembering that these people are in a position to produce the ultimate ‘for knitters, by knitters’ patterns. A crafter who thinks that a knit is worth sharing with others will probably have spent a good deal of care and attention on ensuring their instructions are accurate and can easily be followed. If they are skilled in this area, then there’s no reason to assume that their pattern is of any lesser quality than one you have to pay for.
This seemingly justifies those who only ever opt to use free patterns. If they are of such good quality, is there any incentive to pay for them?
Why pay if you can get patterns for free?
Despite the high quality of many free patterns, there are reasons that would persuade many knitters to purchase one instead.
While there are lots of free options out there, the choice will never be so vast as for paid patterns. Complex designs are less readily available on the free market, and perhaps rightly so. They will probably have taken more time putting together than simpler patterns; you are paying for an advanced skill.
Some of you will also have a favourite designer—perhaps you even got to know of them through a free pattern promotion. When you are confident in someone’s ability to produce a great pattern and strong design, there’s every reason to support their work financially, whilst benefitting from their abilities and guidance.
Making a payment can also increase motivation: as soon as money has been handed over, you have a vested interest in the product. It’s similar to the idea of paying for a language course. If the lessons were free, and you were feeling lazy one week, then there’s little incentive to attend. But paying in advance can stir you into action, and persuade you to make the most of the opportunity, even when there are other things to be done.
So, if you are keen to knit, but never seem to find the time, buying a pattern may be the way forward. It will help you commit to a project—really good news for those of us who are decision-phobes, or struggle to get past the inspiration stage! If you can afford it, a couple of pounds can help you prioritise your knit until the finished product is in your hands.
Free vs Paid: The Result
So, what’s the conclusion? Are free patterns worth the saving, or would you be better off splashing out on a design that will really motivate you to succeed?
Well, as with most things, a balance is best. Free patterns are a brilliant way of keeping costs down when money is tight, and are great for getting to know different designers. But you should judge paid and free designs by the same yardstick. If a pattern seems to be exactly what you’re looking for, great! If not, there are hundreds of other options out there.
Choose wisely, and you’ll enjoy your knit to the full, whether it’s cost you money or not.
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