Mystic Isle Celtic Knot Pin Free Pattern – Knit a Braided Brooch

The Mystic Isle Celtic Knot Pin: A Beginner-Friendly Knitted Brooch

Channel ancient island charm with this knitted Celtic knot pin, a soft and sculptural accessory that adds a touch of lore to any lapel. The intricate braided texture is surprisingly simple to create, making it a perfect weekend project for yarn lovers. This free pattern guides you through knitting a single strip, then folding and sewing it into a beautiful, three-dimensional knot. The interplay of two contrasting colors creates a striking, woven-ribbon illusion that is both cozy and rustic—reminiscent of ancient island craftsmanship.

Whether you're new to knitting or a seasoned maker looking for a quick, satisfying project, this brooch is a fantastic way to practice color changes and shaping while creating a unique, handmade accessory. Let's dive in and craft a piece of wearable lore.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. This project is wonderfully portable and requires minimal materials.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in two contrasting colors (e.g., Deep Heather and Oatmeal) – approximately 20 yards each. A rich, deep purple and a warm cream create a stunning, classic contrast.
• Knitting Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles. Straight or circular needles both work fine.
• Finishing Tools: A tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing the knot together.
• Brooch Back: A pin back or brooch clasp (approx. 1 inch) and strong thread or fabric glue for attachment.

Gauge: Gauge is not critical for this project; aim for a firm, dense fabric to maintain shape. Approx. 5 stitches per inch in stockinette. The firmness helps the knot hold its structure.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pin is knit as a single long strip, then folded and sewn into a Celtic knot shape. The braided effect comes from the interplay of two colors and the twisting of the strip. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll have a beautiful brooch in no time.

Abbreviations

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
• P2tog: Purl two stitches together (decrease)
• BO: Bind off

Knitting the Strip (Make 1)

We'll start by knitting a long, color-blocked strip. This strip is the foundation of your knot.

1. Cast On: With Color A (e.g., Deep Heather), CO 8 stitches. Leave a 6-inch tail for weaving in later.
2. Row 1 (Right Side): K all stitches.
3. Row 2 (Wrong Side): P all stitches.
4. Repeat Rows 1-2 until the strip measures 12 inches (30 cm) from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row. This creates a solid stockinette section in Color A.
5. Switch to Color B: Cut Color A, leaving a 6-inch tail. Join Color B (e.g., Oatmeal) and continue in stockinette (K on RS, P on WS) for another 12 inches (30 cm), ending with a WS row. This is the central section of your knot.
6. Switch Back to Color A: Cut Color B, leaving a 6-inch tail. Join Color A again and work in stockinette for 2 inches (5 cm). This short section will be the tail that tucks underneath.
7. Begin Decreasing (Right Side): Next RS row: K2tog across the row (you will have 4 sts remaining).
8. Next Row (Wrong Side): P all stitches.
9. Next Row (Right Side): K2tog twice (you will have 2 sts remaining).
10. Next Row (Wrong Side): P2tog (you will have 1 st remaining).
11. Finish: Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the tail through the remaining stitch and fasten off securely.

Assembling the Celtic Knot

Now for the magical part—transforming your flat strip into a three-dimensional knot. Take your time with this step to ensure the loops are even and the shape is balanced.

1. Lay the Strip Flat: Place the strip on a flat surface. The Color B section is the center of the knot. The two Color A sections are the ends.
2. Form the Initial Loops: Fold the strip so that the two Color A ends meet in the middle, overlapping slightly. This creates a loop on each side of the central Color B section.
3. Create the Figure-Eight: Take the right loop and twist it once to create a figure-eight shape. This twist is what gives the knot its braided appearance.
4. Weave the Left Loop: Bring the left loop over the right loop, threading it through the center opening created by the figure-eight. This interlocking action forms the classic Celtic knot, resembling a four-leaf clover with interwoven loops.
5. Adjust and Shape: Carefully adjust the loops so they are even and the knot lies flat. The Color A ends should tuck neatly underneath the knot, hiding the join.
6. Sew the Knot: Thread your tapestry needle with a length of Color A yarn. On the underside of the knot, sew the overlapping Color A ends together securely. Also, catch the loops where they intersect to hold the knot shape permanently. Make several firm stitches to ensure durability.
7. Weave in Ends: Weave in all loose yarn tails from the color changes and cast-on/bind-off edges using your tapestry needle. Trim any excess.
8. Attach the Pin Back: Turn the knot over so the underside is facing up. Center the pin back or brooch clasp on the flat underside. Secure it using strong thread (sew through the yarn fabric) or fabric glue. Allow the glue to dry completely if used.
9. Block and Finish: Gently steam block the pin to set the shape and even out the stitches. Hold a steam iron just above the knot (do not press down) and steam thoroughly. Allow it to dry completely. This step helps the knot lie flat and look polished.

Your Mystic Isle Celtic Knot Pin is now complete! Wear it on a coat lapel, a scarf, or a hat to add a touch of handmade charm and ancient mystery to your outfit. This pattern is a wonderful way to use up small amounts of yarn and create a truly special accessory.