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38 Free Plaid Patterns to Crochet and Knit

The differences between plaids, checks, and tartans can be confusing, but all the slight variations of this style are classics and have been well-loved for generations. Whether you’re going with the tartan of a Scottish clan, or just making up a cute plaid pattern for a new afghan, plaids stand the test of time. Here we have 38 plaid patterns from Yarnspirations for you to choose from.

Table of Contents

If you want to dig a little deeper, a plaid design is made up of two or more colors criss-crossing each other at right angles. You see plaids in fabric every day, and they’re a classic look. Tartans are plaids that have a specific name and are associated with a Scottish clan or another group. Checks can be a special type of plaid, but not all plaids are checks.

Bonus: Plaid Yarn

Bernat Color-Pooling Yarn has a buffalo plaid color to easily make buffalo plaid patterns.

Colorful Plaid

Colorful plaids can bring a touch of whimsy to your life and brighten up your home.

Woven Plaid Crochet Blanket Free Crochet Pattern

Neutral Plaid

Neutral plaids will go with anything and everything!

Plaid Blanket Crochet Poncho Free Crochet Pattern

Buffalo Plaid

This classic red and black design, often associated with lumberjacks and the woods, is perfect for warm winter items.

Everyday Plaids

These plaids will work well no matter your decorating style.

Mad for Plaid Blanket Free Crochet Pattern

The One and Only, Marly

Marly is a knitwear and crochet designer (and yarn addict) that is here to help you learn how to knit and crochet in a way that's fun and approachable.

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Knitting & Crochet Patterns for Every Mood

A cartoon image of a joyful chicken, sitting comfortably in a green armchair, knitting happily with blue yarn, surrounded by pink and white flowers, looking for DIY project ideas. -Marly Bird

Netflix & Chill

Simple projects for when you want to relax and zone out

A colorful illustration of a white rabbit with a unicorn horn, nestled among multi-colored leaves arranged like a fan behind it, projects every mood of peacefulness and whimsy. -Marly Bird

Social Butterfly

Frustration-free projects that you can easily work on in public areas

A whimsical illustration of a white chicken adorned with pink flowers and light pink butterflies, featuring flowing tail feathers and a playful pose, all set against a simple white background, perfect for mood-based projects. -Marly Bird

Smooth Jazz

Projects that require a bit more intense focus (but music is nice!)

Shhh Be Quiet!

Advanced projects requiring deep focus (but a big payoff, too!)