Looking for the best collection of different knitting stitches? Here you will find all sorts of knitting stitches to stretch your skills.
Learning new knit stitch patterns can inspire new projects and breathe fresh life into old projects! It’s also the best way to grow as a knitter and hone your skills. Soon you’ll be knitting with the best of them – and you’ll have an entire arsenal of knitting stitches at your disposal, many of them with video tutorials.
There are plenty of beginner-friendly knit stitch patterns in this list – many that only use knit and purl stitches (no k2tog or lace techniques). These excellent tutorials will teach your old stitches new tricks. You might be surprised at all the different designs you can make with just those two basic building blocks!
Don’t worry, we also have many more intricate knitting stitches for those knitters who have been around the block a time or two. One of the best things about knitting is that you never stop learning. Learning new stitches and working on new projects works out those creativity muscles and keeps your mind sharp.
So whether you just started knitting last week or last decade, you are sure to find more than a few stitches to suit you. There are cable knit stitch patterns, lace knit stitch patterns, textured knit stitch patterns, solid knit stitch patterns, and everything in between! Scroll down and see for yourself.
Basic Knitting Stitches
Before we dive into these amazing knitting stitch tutorials, let’s look at the two most common stitch patterns out there: garter stitch and Stockinette stitch.
The first type of knit stitch is the garter stitch. This is simply knitting every row (when working back and forth). If working garter stitch in the round you will need to knit one round and then purl one round.
Stockinette stitch is knitting one row, and purling one row (when working back and forth). When working Stockinette in the round it’s even easier – you just knit every round. This type of knitting stitch is used in most patterns.
You can also work reverse Stockinette stitch in the same way by making the purl side the right side of the fabric.
Common Questions about Knitting Stitches
When it comes to stitches, knitting has a lot less of the basic stitches to learn. There are an amazing number of stitch patterns created from just two basic stitches: the knit stitch and the purl stitch.
From these two stitches you can make countless combinations, as you’ll see here! You can get a completely different look just by switching up the order of these two stitches.
By far the most common knitting stitch pattern is Stockinette stitch. The easiest would be garter stitch, where you knit every stitch, but you see Stockinette (also called stocking stitch) just about everywhere. That is the stitch that gives you the classic “V” shaped stitch seen in so many sweaters, bags, scarves and more.
When you alternate a knit stitch and a purl stitch, this is called a single rib or k1p1 rib. This is the most basic rib stitch in knitting and it gives a very elastic rib that is good for many applications, often at the cuffs and hems and on hat brims.
And now…. on to these amazing different types of knitting stitches!!
50 Knitting Stitch Patterns to Stretch Your Knitting Skills
Why make boring old cables when you can make them into these beautiful and whimsical hearts? This is an excellent multipurpose stitch pattern using a different cable stitch that you will want to use again and again for baby projects, gifts, and more. Beyond the usual basic knit stitch patterns, this design stands out uniquely.
This classic stitch is a must-learn for all knitting projects! It is easy to learn and quick to master. I love the example here with 2 colors, but rest assured that it also looks amazing in monochrome. My favorite things about this knit stitch pattern are the woven appearance and dense fabric.
Talk about texture! This 3-dimensional knit stitch pattern is super squishy and fun. It would make an excellent accent stitch to add excitement to any plain project where you might usually knit all stitches or an eye-popping addition to a stitch sampler-style project.
Sometimes you need a knit stitch that is reversible! The right side and wrong side can look so different sometimes depending on the different stitch patterns, so learning a reversible stitch can really come in handy!
The fisherman’s rib stitch, one of the many knitting techniques, looks a bit like brioche stitch but it’s a little bit easier to learn. You will love this knit stitch pattern because it doesn’t curl and it makes your work extra stretchy. That nice stretch is perfect for beanies and leg warmers.
Even knitting beginners can learn how to make this eye-catching knit stitch pattern. The braided design adds interest and detail to any project. The nice solid fabric this knit stitch pattern creates is ideal for cozy blankets and other knit home decor.
Here’s an easy way to mimic a tartan pattern using just knit and purl stitches. 3 rows of knit 3, purl 3 ribbing alternate with 3 rows of stockinette to make this beginner-friendly knit stitch pattern. It’s a lovely textured stitch that’s relaxing and fun to knit.
If you are looking for two-color knit stitch patterns, then this one is for you! The two-tone lattice stitch uses the basic knit and purl stitch, along with slipped stitches, to make its striking diagonal lines. This decorative stitch is somewhere between entirely solid and lace - perfect for drapey wearables.
Cables can do so much more than the traditional braids we typically associate them with. This neat knit stitch pattern uses knitting cables to create a 3-dimensional honeycomb structure across the entire surface of the work.
When you like the look of ribbing, but you don’t want your work to be very stretchy, what’s a knitter supposed to do? Check out this interesting knit stitch pattern that uses easy cablework to create its ribbed surface, a great example of textured stitches.
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend! Add a touch of sophistication to any knit project with this attractive diamond grid design. The easy knit stitch pattern uses simple cables, knits, and purl knitting to make a distinctive diamond design.
You can have your cake and eat it too with the lacy ladder stitch. The free-knit stitch pattern features delicate eyelet lace details and a stretchiness akin to ribbing. These two qualities aren’t often seen together!
Let’s get geometrical with the lovely all-over triangle pattern of the eye-catching mountain peaks stitch. This intermediate knit stitch pattern has both written and charted instructions, so you can pick your preference.
The moss stitch is usually one of the first knit stitch patterns you learn after you’ve mastered knit and purl. Take it one step further with the moss diamonds stitch. The moss stitch diamond really pops against the flat background and is further accented by the lines of single-knit ribs.
Here’s another beginner-friendly knit stitch pattern to try! This one only uses knit, purl, and slipped stitches. The most interesting thing about this free knit stitch pattern is that a lot of people actually prefer the look of the “wrong side.”
Working with a new knit stitch pattern can reduce the speed of your work. That trade-off is totally worth it when the result is this pretty! This highly decorative stitch would look right at home in a bridal accessory or a baby’s christening gown.
Go this way and that with the striking twist zig-zag stitch. Make sure you follow the pattern as it calls for knit, purl, slipped, and twisted stitches. The playfulness of this design is well suited to knits for children or accent home decor pieces.
Learn how to drop your stitches (on purpose this time) to create the lovely crests and troughs of the sea foam wave stitch. The lightweight lace knit stitch pattern is a cool knitting choice well suited to breathable summer wearables and market bags.
You can make this solid surface of stars if you know how to knit and purl, along with using purl 3-together stitches. The free-knit stitch pattern is a nice balance between subtle and interesting. I would definitely use this stitch for an opaque top or a cozy baby blanket.
There’s just something about this knit stitch pattern that makes me want to jump! I love the unique texture of this stitch and the warm solid fabric it creates. Among knit and purl stitch patterns, this one stands out as you will be using knit, purl, and slipped stitches to recreate this crisscross design.
Life sure has its ups and downs - just like this neat knit stitch pattern. The peaks are created with yarn over increases and the valleys are made by knitting 4 stitches together. The tutorial also talks about a similar knit stitch pattern called the old shale stitch.
Wavy lines of eyelet lace offset the faux cables that twine themselves through the center of this knit stitch pattern. This decorative knitting stitch is a little trickier than most of the ones on this list, but it’s definitely doable with both written instructions and a chart to reference.
Showcase that special hand-painted yarn you’ve been saving with the lovely smocked eyelet stitch. The stitch clusters in this unique knit stitch pattern remind me of the knit star stitch, while the horizontal bars of yarn remind me of the ribboned stockinette stitch. Ensure you follow the pattern instructions closely to achieve this look.
Behold the botanical beauty of the leafy diamond stitch. This highly decorative stitch is somewhere between solid and lacy. It would make an excellent addition to the bottom of a summer top or to the cuff of a pair of knit socks.
With just knit and purl stitches - and a bit of counting - you can recreate this easy knitting stitch pattern. Diagonal lines are so refreshing in an art form that usually only has horizontal and vertical lines, don’t you think?
I’m a sucker for a good argyle design - especially, of course, for a pair of cozy knit socks! Who knew that you could get that same signature look with just one color? This advanced knit stitch pattern uses a combination of slipped and twisted stitches, among other different stitches.
Learn how to drop stitches on purpose to achieve the lovely lace raindrops stitch. It’s so satisfying to watch part of the column of stitches unravel when you drop a stitch. A cleverly placed yarn over a few rows back will keep it from unraveling too far!
You can capture everyone’s favorite part of fall with the aptly named falling leaves stitch. I would recommend this knit stitch pattern as it has a couple of variations to better suit you if you are a combination knitter or a thrower. A knitting chart is provided for your reference.
I love this knit stitch pattern because it is super easy to learn and it gives your work the most beautiful texture. All you need to know to learn this new knitting stitch, among other easy stitches, is how to knit, how to purl, and how to purl 3 stitches together.
Here’s a knit stitch pattern that’s easy as pie and is among the best knitting patterns for beginners! All you need to know is knit and purl and that’s it. I love having a good mesh stitch in my back pocket for lightweight shawls and produce bags. You will definitely want to check this one out!
Do you prefer cables or lace? You get to play with both in this attractive knit stitch pattern. Rest assured, you can learn new knitting stitches like one. It is easier than it looks! I think this decorative stitch would be perfect for a lightweight shawl or blanket.
Looking for texture? The spring stitch has it in spades! This knitting stitch pattern uses basic knit, purl, and spring textures to create an eye-popping texture. Everyone will be asking you what this attractive stitch is called when you post your latest make!
With just knit and purl stitches - and a bit of counting - you can make this modern and geometric knit stitch pattern. It’s a simple stitch but it’s also very striking and stands out among popular knitting stitches. This knitting stitch pattern would look right at home on a baby blanket or a throw pillow."
Here’s another beginner-friendly knit stitch pattern for you to get lost in. You can recreate this literal labyrinth of stitches using just knit and purl stitches. I love the playfulness of this head-turning knitting stitch pattern.
Itty bitty bows dot the surface of this delightful knit stitch pattern. The solid fabric and delicate details are well-suited to infant garments and eye-catching accessories. This knit stitch pattern calls for knit, purl, and slipped stitches along with the signature butterfly stitches.
This vintage knit stitch pattern makes me think of fresh berries and quilted pie crusts. You can capture this nostalgic charm using just knit, purl, and slipped stitches. As you can see, this knit stitch pattern looks especially distinctive when worked in two colors.
The woven basket stitch, often known as the basketweave pattern, is similar to the crisscross stitch but you might find it a little easier to pick up. This free knit stitch pattern calls for knit, purl, and slipped stitches. The solid surface and decorative design are well suited to placemats, throw pillows, and scarves.
The woven basket stitch is similar to the crisscross stitch but you might find it a little easier to pick up. This free knit stitch pattern calls for knit, purl, and slipped stitches. The solid surface and decorative design are well suited to placemats, throw pillows, and scarves.
Zig zags will add interest, texture, and a bit of modern flair to your knitting stitch repertoire. This knit stitch pattern calls for knit, purl, and slipped stitches along with some yarn wrapping. What is this neat knit stitch inspiring you to make?
Add a touch of sophistication to any knitting project with a sea of tiny Eiffel towers. Everyone’s favorite French landmark is much easier to make than you might think! All you need to know is how to knit, purl, and yarn over. Voila!
Beginners and experienced knitters alike will love the simplicity of the square button stitch, also known as a beginner-friendly pattern. This knit stitch pattern only uses knit and purl stitches. I love the modern geometric look and the versatility of such a simple and attractive design.
You can liven up a plain stockinette background with a few well-placed garter stitch strips. The result has a very natural and organic quality to it. This knit stitch pattern is such a neat and simple way of adding some interest and texture to your projects!
Light up your knit projects with the lovely burst or fire stitch. This knit stitch pattern uses knit, purl, yarn over and slipped stitches to create its interesting surface. The eyelet lace details will give your work an excellent drape without sacrificing structure.
Make your knitting needles dance to the lovely 1, 2, 3, and 4 waltz-like paces of the alternating welted leaf stitch. This easy knit stitch pattern uses only knit and purl stitches. The relaxing and repetitive nature of this stitch is perfect for multitasking with a television show or podcast.
Trendy chevron waves make an appearance in this easy knit stitch pattern. You only need to know how to knit and how to purl. The solid and lightly textured surface of the work is well suited to comfy sweaters and cozy throws.
Twining tendrils of delicate vines are the hallmark of this distinctive and feminine knit stitch pattern. The free knitting tutorial calls for knitting, purling, yarn over, knitting 2 together, and slipping stitches. This would be a great knitting stitch for a shawl or a lightweight cardigan.
Upgrade your garter stitch game with a few well-placed rows of tiny strawberry seed eyelets. The delicate nature of this stitch is perfect for baby clothes like the strawberry stitch baby set reference in the tutorial. You will be using knit, yarn over, and knit 2 together stitches.
Make a wish! I know some people consider dandelions to be a nuisance, but I have always appreciated their whimsicalness. Plus, they’re bee-friendly! You can capture their signature charm with the stylish dandelion flower stitch using the basic knit stitch.
Impressive! This neat knit stitch pattern is part checkerboard, part diagonal blocks, and all fun! The free knitting tutorial calls for knit, purl, yarn over, knit 2 together, and slip knit stitches. The flamboyant nature of this stitch design will instantly attract attention, so why not use it for an accent?
Can’t quite get the hang of the honeycomb stitch? Try your hand at this mock honeycomb stitch alternative, which is easy to knit. This knit stitch pattern calls for knit, purl, and slipped stitches. The generous texture and solid surface are perfect for cozy throws and cardigans.
Want even more knitting stitches? Check out our collection of textured knitting stitches here.
Yay for new knitting stitches! Which of these great tutorials caught your eye? Have you tried any other knit stitch patterns that you loved? Don’t keep all that knitting goodness to yourself. Share with us in the comments below!
There are so many amazing knitting stitches we couldn’t possibly list them all here, but you can also try the purl ridge stitch, the diagonal basketweave stitch, the trinity stitch, the blackberry stitch, or the cartridge belt rib stitch.
How to Knit the Two Most Basic Knitting Stitches
All of the wonderful stitch patterns above are built on the two most basic stitches - the knit stitch and the purl stitch. Here is how you work those.
Materials
- Yarn of choice
Tools
- Knitting Needles appropriate for yarn. If unsure, check the recommendation on your yarn label.
Instructions
Knit Stitch
- Cast on any number of stitches.
- Insert right needle into stitch behind left needle. This makes an “X” shape.
- Wrap yarn around needle from left to right.
- Pull loop through, using tip of needle to help draw it through the loop on the left needle.
- Push the stitch off the left needle (the one you worked into).
Purl Stitch
- Cast on any number of stitches.
- With yarn in front, insert right needle into front of stitch from right to left in front of the left hand needle.
- Wrap the yarn counterclockwise around right needle.
- Use the tip of the right needle to pull the yarn through and toward the back of the work.
- Push the old stitch off the left hand needle (the one you worked into).
Final Thoughts on Knitting Stitches
exploring different stitch patterns, such as the double moss stitch, American moss stitch, and the ever-popular garter stitch, can truly elevate your knitting projects. The chevron rib stitch and the andalusian stitch, with their impressive textures, are great for scarves and other accessories. Don’t forget the basic knit stitch, which is the foundation of many pattern instructions and can lead to more complex designs like the waffle stitch scarf.
For those seeking a challenge, the diagonal rib stitch and loop stitch are stunning additions to your skill set. However, if you’re new to knitting, the seeded rib stitch and easy to knit seersucker stitch are perfect starting points. Remember, the knit and purl stitch are essential in creating textures in patterns like the irish moss stitch or the beaded rib stitch.
Knitting is not just about the stitches; it’s also about the tools and techniques. Using circular needles for projects like the bobble stitch or lace knitting can open up a world of possibilities. And don’t forget the importance of knitting gauge – it’s crucial for ensuring your projects turn out just right.
I would recommend trying different stitches on a swatch so that you can see how they look and feel. The 2×2 ribbing, basketweave pattern, and easy knitting ribbing pattern are great ways to start experimenting. Gauge your progress and keep in mind that knitting is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation.
Whether you’re into cool knitting patterns or textured stitches like the knit trinity stitch, there’s always something new to learn. So, grab your knitting needles, pick a pattern, and start creating. And, of course, I always appreciate your feedback and would love to hear about your experiences with these different stitches and techniques.
Happy knitting!
Amanda
Great patterns, thank you!
The link to the moss diamonds knit pattern goes to a crochet page.
Hi! I just double checked and it seems to be going to the right page. Definitely a knitting page… not sure what happened when you clicked on it before.
You’re right. I clicked on “moss stitch” instead. Thanks, again. 😊