How to Design a Slipper
Slippers are a great project to experiment with stepping outside of the pattern box. Whereas sweaters and vests may require careful fitting and socks more conscientious shaping, slippers rely on bulkier yarns and more generous sizing. The natural give of knitting will allow a slipper to fit a wide range of sizes. With only basic knitting skills, you can design a slipper pattern on your own.
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Instructions
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How to Design a Slipper
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1
Decide what style of slipper you want. A hand-knit slipper pattern can create a sock-like slipper, a simple slip on flat, or even a boot-type slipper. You should also consider whether you plan to add a sole to your knit slipper. These decisions impact how you design a slipper pattern.
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Determine how big your slipper needs to be. It is easiest to design a slipper pattern for yourself or someone in your household so you have measurements easily available. If you choose a slip-on slipper, you need to know the measurement around the ball of the foot as well as the length of the foot. A more sock-like slipper requires these measurements, as well as the diameter of the ankle or calf.
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Draw a schematic of your knit slipper pattern on graph paper. Be sure to sketch out flat pieces if you will seam your new slipper pattern.
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Knit a gauge swatch with your desired yarn and needles. If you plan to felt your slipper, you should felt your swatch and measure your gauge before and after felting.
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Do the math. You should have all the measurements you need to determine your knitting cast-on and stitch counts. If you need a flat piece 6 inches wide and you are knitting at a gauge of four stitches to the inch, you should cast on 24 stitches. You may want to knit your slipper somewhat freehand, increasing and decreasing when you feel appropriate or write out a more formal slipper pattern.
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