Once you learn to knit and purl, the entire world of knitting opens up for you. Even for beginners who’ve just got their knitting needles and simply have the skills to cast stitches and the basic of knit and purl can create wonders. Most stitch patterns work for all kinds of projects whether you are knitting with single-pointed (STNs), double points (DPNs), fixed circulars as well as interchangeable circular needles.
Stitch patterns are simply combination of knit and purl stitches. In fact there are patterns such as garter that is exclusively made of knit stitches. They are made with knit stitches every row when worked with single pointed needles or circular needles for back and forth knitting. The garter stitch pattern in the round is different as they are made with alternating rows of knit and purl stitches. Similarly, stocking (stockinette) is a pattern of alternating rows of knit and purl stitches but then when you knit in the round it translates to continuous rows of knit stitches. Refer to our guide on knitting on stocking stitch pattern on circular needles.
In this blog let’s walk you through 10 easy knitting stitches that are perfect for beginners as well as seasoned knitters for all kinds of projects, from socks to a wide blanket, sweaters to hats and even home decor.
1. Rib Stitch
Rib Stitch, often referred to as ribbing is achieved by creating a column of alternating knit and purl stitches. The 1x1 rib stitch involves knitting one stitch and then purling one, while the 2x2 rib stitch is created by knitting two then purling two, and so on. Due to its stretchy, textured nature, ribbing is commonly used in winter projects such as chunky scarves, knitted shawl kits and hats, as well as collars and cuffs. For a better stitch definition, we suggest choosing yarn with a more precise texture rather than fuzzy yarn.
2. The Broken Rib Stitch
The Broken Rib Stitch is a variation of traditional ribbing. This stitch involves inserting a seed stitch between the columns of a 1x1 rib, creating a vertical zigzag pattern. While similar in look to regular ribbing, the broken rib stitch is not as stretchy. There are many variations of the rib stitch, including diagonal rib stitch, beaded rib stitch, spiral rib stitch, chevron, garter, pique and more.
3. Cable Stitch
Cable Stitch can appear daunting to knit, but the basics are actually quite simple. This technique involves twisting a row of knit and purl stitches to create a cable. It is then combined with other stitches for more intricate and textured designs. Besides knitting needles, a cable needle is the most important tool for the stitch pattern. Alternatively, a double-pointed needle (the same size as the knitting needle you are working with), stitch holder or even a piece of yarn can be used to hold on to the stitches while working on them out of turn for the twisted look of cables.
4. Seed Stitch
Seed Stitch is created by alternating knit and purl stitches. This is done differently from ribbing, however, as the sequence is reversed on each row. To do this, work one row of alternating knit and purl stitches, then reverse the sequence on the next row. The end result is a dotted or bumpy pattern.
5. Moss Stitch
Moss Stitch is another textured stitch related to the seed stitch, but the sequence of knit and purl stitches is reversed every two rows instead of everyone. This is a great way to create an interesting pattern with the look of ribbing in a 'shifted' column.
6. The Bamboo Stitch
The Bamboo Stitch, named for its similarity to bamboo stalks, is made up of knit stitches, yarn overs and slipped stitches, creating a woven appearance. This stitch begins on the right side of the work and involves passing the yarn over, knitting two stitches, then passing the yarn over those two stitches and repeating.
7. Basketweave Stitch
Basketweave Stitch involves alternating knits and purls, forming an intricate woven pattern similar to a basket. This is commonly used in fabrics where texture is paramount. For example, one could knit 4 stitches and purl 4 stitches for 4 rows, then reverse this on the next 4 rows to create the basketweave pattern. This is a great stitch for bags, blankets, dishcloths and pillowcases. Variations of the basketweave stitch include the diagonal basketweave stitch, basket loop stitch, and wide basketweave stitch.
8. The Bubble Stitch
The Bubble Stitch is a fun and simple stitch pattern that utilizes stockinette stitch and the ‘knit four down’ technique to create a thick, three-dimensional texture. The stitch pattern looks challenging and transforms any basic project into a work of beauty.
9. Bobble Stitch
Bobble Stitch uses basic stockinette or garter stitch to create small three-dimensional bumps, also known as bobbles. To do this, one must knit one, purl one increase twice, then turn the work and knit and purl these four stitches on each side. The bobble stitch is often used in decorative elements.
10. Lace Stitch
The Lace Stitch involves casting an odd number of stitches and wrapping the yarn around the needle to form a yarn over. After this, you will knit two stitches together. This produces a textured, draping fabric that is often worked in repeating sequences. Basically, lace knitting means creating artful holes in the knitted fabric with knit and purl stitches and other techniques such as k2tog, p2tog and yarn over. The delicate stitch patterns are best working with knitting needle sizes larger than the yarn weight. Many knitters prefer stainless steel needles and generally interchangeable circular needles that have a lifeline hole to help thread a lifeline to protect your knitting from mistakes.
With these stitch patterns get ready to create impressive knitted garments or home decor.
With so many options to choose from, the possibilities for beautiful stitch patterns are endless! The Mindful Collection offers stainless steel knitting needles and mindful accessories that not only provide a smooth knitting experience but a mindful practice of the craft. Every knitting needle in the collection has a unique word imprinted on its needle body that helps the knitter focus on the meditative benefits of the craft. Be it knitting needle sets or individual tools or accessories, choose the Mindful Collection for a healthy and mindful connection with your craft.
