Kids Knit Lit: Stories to Inspire Young Makers

There’s something magical about children’s books that celebrate making—knitting, crocheting, weaving, spinning, or even caring for sheep. These stories aren’t just charming reads; they spark creativity, patience, and a love for handmade things. A character knitting a sweater, spinning wool, or working on a tiny project brings fibre arts to life in ways that children can see, imagine, and connect with.

Over the years, I’ve collected and reviewed a wonderful list of children’s books that feature knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving, wool, and sheep’s fleece—sometimes in the story, sometimes tucked into the illustrations. You can explore the full collection of my book reviews here: Kids’ Knit Lit Book Reviews.

Books like these make wonderful gifts on their own, whether for a newborn, a birthday, or simply to inspire a child’s curiosity. And pairing a story with a pair of handknit mittens, socks, or a sweater adds an extra layer of delight, a tangible connection to the world of fibre arts that complements the story.

My catalogue of children’s knitting patterns—tiny mittens, cozy socks, and playful sweaters—make a perfect pairing with these books. Imagine a child unwrapping a pair of handknit mittens while reading a story that celebrates knitting, or trying on a new sock while exploring a tale full of fibre fun. Using self-striping yarn (a favourite of mine) adds extra delight, with colours that echo the whimsy and charm found in the illustrations.

Pairing a story with a handmade gift encourages children to imagine, create, and explore the joy of making with their own hands—exactly the kind of inspiration these books celebrate.