How to knit book covers

Learn how to knit book covers for your little library and make every book beautiful!

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Published: May 10, 2021 at 8:50 am

Wrap good reads and notebooks in our two-stitch, easy-knit book cover pattern by Julie Picard complete with a little pocket for highlighters or hooks. A sleeve for the bookish crafter! Julie will show you how to make your own knitted book covers so you can keep all your favourite novels safe. This would be a fab gift idea for a fellow book-lover and will protect their books from dust, spills and scratches!

This project was created by Julie for Mollie Makes magazine – for more easy-make craft projects and creative inspiration, subscribe to Mollie or click here to find out more. Oh and remember there's loads of free knitting patterns right here on Gathered. Brush up on the basics in our knitting for beginners article, or our how to cast on knitting and how to cast off knitting features, too.

How to knit book covers cropped

You will need:

• King Cole Merino Blend DK Wool: shades 794 (A) and 925 (B) • Size 4mm knitting needles • Tapestry needle • Scissors • Tape measure

Please note: the pattern measurements are for an A5 book (210 x 148mm).

If you're new to knitting check out our guide to knitting for beginners which covers all the key techniques you'll need. We also have a round-up of the best knitting needles so you can find your dream pair to knit your book covers with!

How to knit book covers

You will need:

  • Yarn
  • Knitting needles
  • Tapestry needle
  • Scissors

Step 1

How to knit book covers step 1

Cast on 49 stitches with yarn A. Work in seed stitch (knit one, purl one, repeat to the end of row) until the jacket measures 38cm. Cast off.

Step 2

How to knit book covers step 2

To make the jacket flaps: fold one side of the jacket to create a 4cm-wide flap. Stitch the top and bottom of the flap using the tapestry needle yarn A. Repeat on the other jacket flap.

Step 3

How to knit book covers step 3

To make the pocket: cast on 17 stitches using yarn B. Seed stitch until the pocket measures 7cm, cast off. Stitch the pocket to the front using B, weave in the ends. Block your jacket (check the yarn label or brand’s website for recommended method).

How to knit book covers step 4

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning how to knit book covers and can now make all your books beautiful! If you’re looking for a new knitting project why not use our toy dog knitting pattern or our knitted cactus pattern to knit yourself something cute. 

This tutorial was designed by Julie Picard for Mollie Makes. Julie is the creator of Julie & The Knits, home of cute and quirky accessories.

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