Stars & Stripes Wreath Knitting Pattern – Easy American Flag Wreath

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a cozy, hand-knit wreath that captures the spirit of the flag in soft, textured yarn. This easy pattern uses simple stitches to create a stunning, dimensional wreath that will be the star of your front door. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or just picking up needles for the first time, this project is approachable, rewarding, and makes a heartfelt handmade statement for your patriotic decor.

The design features a long, striped knitted strip that wraps around a wreath form, creating a ruffled, flag-inspired look. A separate blue star section is knitted and sewn on, completing the iconic American flag motif. The result is a plush, textured wreath with visible stitch definition that adds warmth and charm to any entryway.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. All materials are readily available at craft stores or online.

Yarn

• Worsted weight yarn in three colors:
  • Red (A): Approximately 100g (sample used Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in Crimson)
  • White (B): Approximately 100g (sample used Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in White)
  • Blue (C): Approximately 100g (sample used Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in Navy)

Needles & Notions

• US Size 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles, or size needed to obtain gauge
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing pieces together
• 12-inch foam wreath form or wire wreath frame
• White yarn or embroidery floss for the star (small amount)
• Matching blue yarn for sewing the star section onto the wreath
• Yarn or ribbon for hanging loop
• Pins (optional, for holding pieces in place during assembly)

Gauge

18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Gauge is not critical for this project, but a firm fabric is best to ensure the wreath holds its shape and the stripes look crisp. If your gauge is significantly different, adjust needle size accordingly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This wreath is made by knitting a long, striped strip, then folding and wrapping it around a wreath form to create a ruffled, flag-inspired design. The blue star section is knitted separately and sewn on. Follow these detailed instructions carefully for a flawless result.

Knitted Strip (Make 1)

With color A (Red), cast on 20 stitches.

Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.

Repeat Rows 1-2 until piece measures 6 inches from cast-on edge. End with a WS row. This forms the first red section of your flag.

Switch to color B (White). Continue in stockinette stitch (knit RS, purl WS) for 2 inches. End with a WS row.

Switch to color A (Red). Continue in stockinette stitch for 2 inches. End with a WS row.

Switch to color B (White). Continue in stockinette stitch for 2 inches. End with a WS row.

Switch to color A (Red). Continue in stockinette stitch for 2 inches. End with a WS row.

Switch to color B (White). Continue in stockinette stitch for 2 inches. End with a WS row.

Switch to color A (Red). Continue in stockinette stitch for 2 inches. End with a WS row.

Bind off all stitches loosely in knit. Weave in the yarn ends at the color changes, but leave the cast-on and bind-off edges free for assembly.

Blue Star Section (Make 1)

With color C (Blue), cast on 20 stitches.

Work in stockinette stitch (knit RS, purl WS) for 4 inches. Bind off all stitches. Weave in ends.

Embroider the Star: Using a tapestry needle and white yarn or embroidery floss, embroider a simple 5-pointed star in the center of the blue square. You can use a duplicate stitch (following the knit stitches to create the shape) or a simple backstitch to create the star outline and fill it in.

To create a backstitch star:

1. Mark the center of the blue square with a pin.
2. Draw a light outline of a 5-pointed star using a fabric marker or chalk (test on a scrap first).
3. Thread your tapestry needle with white yarn. Starting at one point of the star, bring the needle up from the back and make small backstitches along the outline.
4. Continue around the entire star outline, then fill in the center with parallel backstitches or a satin stitch for a solid look.

Assembly

Now it's time to bring your wreath together. Follow these steps in order for the best results.

Step 1: Create the Tube
Lay the knitted strip flat with the right side facing up. Fold it in half lengthwise so the right sides are together (the stripes will be on the inside). Using a tapestry needle and matching yarn (use red or white, whichever is most convenient), sew the long edges together to create a tube. Use a whipstitch or mattress stitch for a secure seam. Turn the tube right side out so the stripes are on the outside.

Step 2: Insert the Wreath Form
Place the foam wreath form inside the tube, gathering the fabric evenly around it. The stripes should run vertically around the wreath, creating a ruffled, gathered effect. Adjust the fabric so the stripes are evenly distributed and the tube is snug around the form. If the tube is too loose, you can gather the fabric slightly with a running stitch along the seam to tighten it.

Step 3: Secure the Tube Ends
Once the form is fully covered, fold the raw edges of the tube inward at the back of the wreath and sew them closed with a whipstitch using matching yarn. This hides the cast-on and bind-off edges and keeps the fabric securely in place.

Step 4: Attach the Blue Star Section
Position the blue star section on the lower left quadrant of the wreath, covering the white and red stripes. The star should be centered in that quadrant, with the star pointing upward. Pin it in place to hold it steady.

Using a tapestry needle and matching blue yarn, sew the blue square securely onto the wreath using a whipstitch around all four edges. Make sure to catch both the blue square and the striped fabric underneath. Sew through the foam form if needed for extra security, but be careful not to pull too tightly or the fabric will pucker.

Step 5: Weave in All Loose Ends
Using your tapestry needle, weave in any remaining yarn ends on the back of the wreath. Trim any excess yarn close to the fabric.

Step 6: Add a Hanging Loop
To hang, attach a loop of yarn or ribbon to the back of the wreath. Cut a 10-inch piece of yarn or ribbon, fold it in half, and sew the ends securely to the back of the wreath form at the top. Make sure the loop is strong enough to support the weight of the wreath.

Tips for Success

• Keep tension consistent: Even tension throughout will ensure your stripes are uniform and the wreath looks polished.
• Block the pieces before assembly: If your knitting is curling at the edges (common with stockinette), lightly block the knitted strip and blue square before sewing. This will make assembly much easier and give a cleaner finish.
• Use a wire wreath frame for a lighter option: If you prefer a lighter wreath, use a wire frame instead of foam. The fabric will wrap around it the same way.
• Customize the size: For a smaller wreath, use a 10-inch form and reduce the strip length proportionally. For a larger wreath, use a 14-inch form and add more stripe sections.

Show Off Your Creation

Once your wreath is complete, hang it proudly on your front door, above the mantel, or anywhere you want to show your patriotic spirit. This handmade piece is sure to be a conversation starter and a cherished part of your holiday decor for years to come.

We'd love to see your finished wreath! Share your photos on social media with the hashtag #StarsAndStripesWreath and tag us so we can admire your handiwork. Happy knitting, and have a wonderful Fourth of July!