Star-Spangled Banner Bunting Free Pattern – A Knitted Festive Flag Garland

There’s something deeply satisfying about decorating your home with handmade touches, especially when they celebrate a special occasion. This knitted bunting pattern brings cozy, textured charm to any patriotic gathering—think Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or a summer backyard party. The soft, woolen garland features classic red, white, and navy stripes with raised, puffy star appliqués that add delightful dimension. Whether draped across a mantel, porch railing, or party backdrop, this bunting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that store-bought decorations simply can’t match.

Best of all, this project is beginner-friendly. With basic knit and purl stitches, a simple increase/decrease technique for the stars, and an easy I-cord for hanging, you’ll have a stunning festive garland in no time. Let’s dive into everything you need to create your own Star-Spangled Banner Bunting.

Materials Needed

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

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic yarn in Red, White, and Navy Blue (approximately 100g of each color). Cotton gives a crisper stitch definition, while acrylic offers softness and easy care—choose whichever you prefer.
• Knitting Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles. Straight needles work perfectly for the flags and stars; double-pointed needles (or a circular needle) are helpful for the I-cord, though you can also use two straight needles.
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 26 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Gauge isn’t critical for this project, but matching it ensures your flags are the intended size (approximately 8 inches wide by 12 inches long).
• Extras: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing stars, scissors, and stitch markers (optional but helpful).

Step-by-Step Instructions

This bunting is knitted in three main sections: the striped flag background, the star appliqués, and the connecting cord. Follow each section carefully, and you’ll have a beautiful garland ready to hang. Make as many flags as you’d like—three to five creates a lovely drape.

Part 1: Striped Flag Background (Make 3 or More)

Each flag is worked flat, starting and ending with garter stitch (knit every row) for a neat, non-curling edge. The middle sections use stockinette stitch (knit on the right side, purl on the wrong side) for smooth stripes.

1. Cast On: Using Red yarn, cast on 40 stitches.
2. Red Garter Border:
   Row 1 (Right Side): Knit all stitches.
   Row 2 (Wrong Side): Knit all stitches.
   Repeat Rows 1–2 for a total of 10 rows. You’ll see 5 garter ridges (the bumps) on the right side. This forms the top border of the flag.
3. White Stripe:
   Switch to White yarn. Work in stockinette stitch for 10 rows:
   Row 1 (RS): Knit all.
   Row 2 (WS): Purl all.
   Repeat these two rows until you’ve completed 10 rows total.
4. Navy Blue Stripe:
   Switch to Navy Blue yarn. Work in stockinette stitch for 10 rows (knit RS, purl WS). This is the section where your stars will be attached.
5. White Stripe:
   Switch back to White yarn. Work in stockinette stitch for 10 rows.
6. Red Garter Border:
   Switch to Red yarn. Knit every row for 10 rows (creating 5 garter ridges). This forms the bottom border.
7. Bind Off: Bind off all stitches loosely (use a larger needle or a loose bind-off method to prevent a tight edge). Weave in all loose ends with your tapestry needle.

Tip: When changing colors, leave a 6-inch tail to weave in later. Carry the unused yarn up the side if you prefer, but cutting and weaving gives a cleaner finish.

Part 2: Star Appliqués (Make 3 per Flag, or as Desired)

Each star is created from a simple diamond shape, then a second diamond is added on top to form the classic five-pointed star. The increases and decreases create a raised, puffy texture that stands out beautifully against the navy background.

Diamond Shape (Make 5 per star, or follow the alternative method below):

1. Cast On: Using White yarn, cast on 1 stitch.
2. Row 1: Knit into the front and back of the stitch (this increases from 1 to 2 stitches).
3. Row 2: Knit into the front and back of the first stitch, knit to the last stitch, then knit into the front and back of the last stitch. You now have 4 stitches.
4. Row 3: Repeat Row 2 (6 stitches).
5. Row 4: Repeat Row 2 (8 stitches).
6. Row 5: Repeat Row 2 (10 stitches).
7. Row 6: Knit all stitches (no increases).
8. Row 7: Knit 2 together (k2tog), knit to the last 2 stitches, then k2tog. You now have 8 stitches.
9. Row 8: Knit all stitches.
10. Row 9: Repeat Row 7 (6 stitches).
11. Row 10: Knit all stitches.
12. Row 11: Repeat Row 7 (4 stitches).
13. Row 12: K2tog twice (2 stitches).
14. Row 13: K2tog (1 stitch). Cut yarn and pull through the last loop to secure.

This completes one diamond. To make a full star, you have two options:

Option A (Seamed Star): Knit 5 separate diamonds using the pattern above. Arrange them in a star shape (one point facing up, two pointing diagonally down-left and down-right, and two pointing horizontally left and right). Sew them together at the center using a tapestry needle and white yarn. This creates a crisp, defined star with visible seams that add texture.

Option B (Continuous Star): After completing the first diamond, pick up and knit 5 stitches along the top edge of the diamond (the edge opposite the cast-on point). Then repeat Rows 1–13 of the diamond pattern to form the top point of the star. This creates a seamless, integrated star. Weave in all ends.

Tip: For a quicker project, Option A is easier for beginners to visualize. For a more polished look, Option B is worth the extra effort.

Part 3: Assembly – Attaching the Stars

1. Lay each flag flat with the navy blue section facing up.
2. Position the stars on the navy section. For a classic look, place one star in the center and two slightly lower on either side, or scatter them diagonally for a playful feel.
3. Using a tapestry needle and white yarn, sew each star securely to the flag. Stitch around the edges of the star, catching the back of the star and the flag fabric. Make sure the star lies flat but retains its puffy texture.
4. Weave in all yarn ends on the back of the flag.

Part 4: Connecting Cord (I-Cord)

The I-cord is a simple, sturdy rope that will hold your flags. It’s knitted in the round on just a few stitches, creating a seamless tube.

1. Cast On: Using White yarn, cast on 3 stitches onto a double-pointed needle (or a regular needle if you’re comfortable sliding stitches).
2. Knit the I-Cord:
   Knit the 3 stitches. Do not turn your work. Instead, slide the stitches to the other end of the needle. The yarn will be at the left end. Pull the yarn tightly across the back and knit the 3 stitches again. Repeat this process—knit 3, slide, knit 3—until the cord reaches your desired length.
3. Length: For a 60-inch garland (which fits most mantels), knit approximately 60 inches of I-cord. You can always add more length later by knitting additional cord and sewing it on.
4. Bind Off: When the cord is long enough, bind off all 3 stitches. Cut yarn and pull through the last loop.

Alternative: If you prefer, you can crochet a simple chain stitch cord using a crochet hook. Chain until you reach the desired length, then fasten off.

Part 5: Attaching Flags to the Cord

1. Lay the I-cord flat on a table.
2. Space your flags evenly along the cord. For a 60-inch cord with 3 flags, place them about 6 inches apart. Adjust spacing based on how many flags you made.
3. Using a tapestry needle and white yarn, sew the top edge of each flag (the red garter border) onto the cord. Stitch through the cord and the flag edge, making sure the flag hangs straight.
4. Secure each flag with a few firm stitches, then weave in the ends.

Part 6: Finishing Touches

1. Block the Flags: Gently wet-block each flag to even out stitches and relax the yarn. Lay them flat on a towel, shape them to the correct dimensions (8×12 inches), and allow them to dry completely. This step is optional but highly recommended for a professional finish.
2. Weave in All Ends: Double-check that every yarn tail is securely woven in on the wrong side of the fabric.
3. Hang and Enjoy: Drape your bunting across a mantel, porch railing, or party backdrop. Use small hooks or nails at each end of the cord to hold it in place.

Tips for Success

• Keep Tension Even: Consistent tension is key to neat stripes. If your gauge is off, don’t worry—just keep your knitting relaxed and even.
• Count Your Rows: Use a row counter or mark every 10 rows with a stitch marker to avoid losing your place.
• Customize: Feel free to add more stripes, use different colors, or make smaller stars for a more delicate look. This pattern is highly adaptable.
• Make It Your Own: Add a few extra stars for a denser pattern, or leave some flags star-free for variety.

Your Star-Spangled Banner Bunting is now complete! This handmade garland is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday décor, bringing warmth and personality to every celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting out, this project is a rewarding way to show your patriotic spirit. Happy knitting!