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Basic Hot Water Bottle Cover – Free Knitting Pattern

As the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like snuggling up with a hot water bottle to keep the cold at bay. Not only do hot water bottles provide soothing warmth, but they can also be stylish and personalised with a lovely hand-knitted cover. This article presents a simple and delightful knitting pattern for a basic hot water bottle cover that even beginners can tackle with ease.

Why Knit Your Own Hot Water Bottle Cover?

Knitting your own hot water bottle cover has several advantages:

• Personalisation: You can choose your favourite yarn colours and patterns, making it a unique addition to your winter comfort items.
• Warmth and Comfort: A knitted cover adds an extra layer of warmth and tactile comfort.
• Gift Potential: Handmade gifts are always appreciated. A personalised hot water bottle cover can be a thoughtful present for friends and family.

Materials Needed

Before you get started, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: Approximately 100g of double knitting (DK) yarn. Choose a colour that matches your decor or a fun shade to brighten up those dull winter evenings.
• Needles: A pair of 4mm knitting needles (UK size 8).
• Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends.
• Hot water bottle: To measure and ensure a proper fit.

Basic Hot Water Bottle Cover Pattern

Knitting Gauge

Ensure your knitting gauge is approximately 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch.

Instructions

Cast On
Cast on 52 stitches.

Ribbing (Bottom of the Cover)

1. Row 1: K2, P2 across the row.
2. Row 2: Repeat Row 1.
3. Repeat these two rows for 8cm.

Body of the Cover

1. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and knit until the cover measures 30cm from the cast-on edge.

Shaping the Top

1. Knit 2 rows.
2. Now, start to shape the top by decreasing.
3. Row 1: K2, K2tog across the row. – (39 stitches remaining)
4. Row 2: Knit.
5. Row 3: K1, K2tog across the row. – (26 stitches remaining)
6. Row 4: Knit.
7. Row 5: K2tog across the row. – (13 stitches remaining)

Finishing Off

1. Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail (approximately 30cm). Thread the tail through the remaining stitches using a tapestry needle. Pull tight to close the top of the cover.
2. Weave in all loose ends with the tapestry needle.
3. If desired, add decorative elements such as buttons or embroidery to enhance the cover.

Final Touches

Once your hot water bottle cover is complete, simply slide in your hot water bottle, and you’re ready to enjoy its warmth. Consider making a few in different colours and patterns to match various outfits or moods.

Care Instructions

To ensure that your knitted cover lasts for many winters to come, hand-wash it in lukewarm water with a gentle detergent and lay it flat to dry. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric to keep its shape intact.

Conclusion

This basic hot water bottle cover is not only a practical solution for staying warm during the colder months, but it also offers a fantastic opportunity to express your creativity and improve your knitting skills. So gather your materials, cast on, and enjoy the soothing experience of creating something special to keep you warm this winter! Happy knitting!