Brioche in knitting is as delectable as its doughy namesake! Brioche does not refer to one particular stitch but a variety of knitting stitches or techniques that create a densely textured fabric that resembles delectable “Brioche”. The stitches are typically worked using any kind of knitting needles. The interesting textures can be knit with single-pointed to double-pointed, fixed or interchangeable circular needles - and any type of yarn.
Though the name "brioche" seems to have derived from French slang for "mistake", the knitting pattern itself is believed to have originated in the Middle East, given the roll formed of two pieces, one stacked atop the other. As outlined in Barbara G. Walker's book "Treasury of Knitting Patterns", brioche patterns include two elements or knitting techniques- a slipped stitch (sl st) and a yarn-over (yo) which are knitted together on the return row. Technically, Brioche a one-row repeat but we have the first setup row which is only being worked at the beginning of the pattern. While brioche may seem intimidating to novice knitters, it's quite beautiful and can actually be pretty simple too.
To make working Brioche enjoyable, in this blog, we will take you helpful tips and tricks that will make the process a bit easier. But, first, take a look at the guide on knitting Brioche in easy steps.
Tricks to Get Started with Brioche
Brioche stitch patterns have their own set of special stitches, unique charts, and working methods (each row is worked twice). It is important to forget some previously learned knitting know-how to create the gorgeous brioche texture. A rebel of the knitting world that gives knitters freedom of expression, it is easy to handle with a few tricks.
Tip 1. Choose a Small Needle Size and Heavy Yarn Weight Combination
Use a knitting needle size smaller than the one mentioned in the knitting pattern on the yarn label. You can go one or three sizes down, depending on your knitting tension. Before you begin knitting your project, it is important to knit a gauge swatch.
Tip 2. Choose Yarn that retains its shape
Brioche knitting has a stretchy effect so it’s better to stay away from slippery yarns. Do not attempt to work with silk, cashmere, or alpaca; try to find a wool blend or non-superwash wool for your project. It’s recommended to knit with yarns that retain their shape.
Also, another point to keep in mind is Brioche stitch patterns use twice as much yarn as a standard knitting project. So, make sure you have plenty of skeins on hand to not run out halfway through. As mentioned above it is recommended to always start with a gauge swatch. You will get an idea of how the yarn behaves and also the amount required for the stitch pattern.
Tip 3. Use a Loose Cast-On and Bind-Off
The stretchy fabric resulting from Brioche stitches requires the same stretchiness in the cast-on and bind-off methods. Go for a needle one size larger than the needle you’re using for the project itself. Work with a long tail cast on method or other stretchy methods.
Tip 4. Understand Brioche Knitting Abbreviations
Unlike other stitch patterns in knitting, Brioche has its own set of rules and abbreviations. These techniques are different from previously learned knitting. Of course, it has knit and purl stitches but they are worked differently.
The most common stitches and techniques in Brioche are:
Yf = Yarn Forward. In Brioche, it refers to the technique of bringing the working yarn under the right knitting needle to the front of the work.
Sl1YO = Slip 1 and yarn over. You may have seen this knitting abbreviation in lace knitting but this is different. Here it means to slip the next stitch purlwise. Even though it may look like two stitches on your knitting needle, take care to not miscount as it would cause a hole in your knitted fabric.
BRK = Brioche Knit. This refers to knitting the stitch together with its corresponding yarn over created on the previous row.
BRP = Brioche Purl. The stitch refers to the technique that you’ll purl stitch together with its corresponding yarn over that was created on the previous row.
To get a grasp on the technique, it's recommended to knit a swatch first before managing a pattern, allowing you to focus solely on mastering the new skill.
After binding off carefully weave in the yarn ends with a darning needle. Block your project with precision tools. Steam blocking is the most effective regardless of the yarn used. You can refer to our guide on how to block knitted projects.
If you want to try your hand at knitting Brioche Stitch, start with a swatch. Move on to a basic pattern such as a scarf or a hat. You can even try a hand at two-color Brioche. In fact, working with two colors actually makes it easier to read your knitting and enjoy knitting.
Brioche or any other knitting pattern, the KnitPro knitting collection has everything you need to assist with a smooth experience. The stainless steel knitting needles of the Mindful Collection are available in options of double-pointed, fixed circulars, and interchangeable and specially designed knitting needle sets. With teal colors, mindful imagery and a unique inspirational word imprinted on its tip, the knitting collection is a prized possession for knitters. You can also explore the Nova metal knitting needles range or the Nova cubics. Zing is also a good metal option. For wood and bamboo, the popular names are Dreamz, Ginger and Symfonie.