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 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 knit one row, purl 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 Stitches to Stretch Your Knitting Skills
When using these stitch patterns, be sure to pay attention to multiples as some use an even number of stitches and some odd, and some multiples of 3 or more. This is important if you are trying to make items like afghans out of these stitch patterns.
1. Cable Heart
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
2. Linen Stitch
This classic stitch is a must learn! 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
3. Bubble Stitch
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 or an eye-popping addition to a stitch sampler style project.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
4. Brioche Stitch
Sometimes you need a knit stitch that is reversible! The right side and wrong side can look so different sometimes depending on the knit stitch pattern, so learning a reversible stitch can really come in handy!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
5. Fisherman’s Rib
The fisherman’s rib stitch 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
6. Herringbone Stitch
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
7. Tartan Weave
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
8. Two Tone Lattice
If you are looking for two-color knit stitch patterns, then this one is for you! The two tone lattice stitch uses knit, purl and slipped stitches to make its striking diagonal lines. This decorative stitch is somewhere between entirely solid and lace – perfect for drapey wearables.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
9. Honeycomb Cable
Cables can do so much more than the traditional braids we typically associate them with. This neat knit stitch pattern uses cables to create a 3-dimensional honeycomb structure across the entire surface of the work.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
10. Checkmark Ribs
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
11. Diamond Grid
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 purls to make the distinctive diamond design.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
12. Lacy Ladder
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!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
13. Mountain Peaks
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
14. Moss Diamonds
The moss stitch is usually one of the first knit stitch pattern you learn after you’ve mastered knit and purl. Take it one step further with the moss diamonds stitch. The moss stitch diamond really pop against the flat background and are further accented by the lines of single knit ribs.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
15. Ribboned Stockinette
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.”
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
16. Lotus Flower Stitch
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
17. Twist Zig Zag
Go this way and that with the striking twist zig zag stitch. This free knit stitch pattern 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
18. Sea Foam Wave
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 well suited to breathable summer wearables and market bags.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
19. Star Stitch
You can make this solid surface of stars with just knit and purl stitches along with 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
20. Criss Cross Stitch
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. You will be using knit, purl and slipped stitches to recreate this criss cross design.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
21. Feather and Fan
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
22. Beautiful Coral
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 from.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
23. Smocked Eyelet
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
24. Leafy Diamonds
Behold the botanical beauty of the leafy diamonds 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 on a pair of knit socks.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
25. Diagonal Stripes
With just knit and purl stitches – and a bit of counting – you can recreate this easy knit stitch pattern. Diagonal lines are so refreshing in an art form that usually only has horizontal and vertical lines, don’t you think?
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
26. Lace Twist Argyle
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 others.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
27. Raindrops
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!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
28. Falling Leaves
You can capture everyone’s favorite part of fall with the aptly named falling leaves stitch. This knit stitch pattern has a couple variations to better suit you if you are a combination knitter or a thrower. A knitting chart is provided for your reference.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
29. Raspberry Stitch
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 is how to knit, how to purl, and how to purl 3 stitches together.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
30. Mrs. Davenport’s Mesh
Here’s a knit stitch pattern that’s easy as pie! 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!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
31. Quatrefoil Cables and Lace
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
32. Spring Textured Stitch
Looking for texture? The spring stitch has it in spades! This knitting stitch pattern uses knit, purl and spring textures to create eye-popping texture. Everyone will be asking you what this attractive stitch is called when you post your latest make!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
33. Isosceles Triangles
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. This knitting stitch pattern would look right at home on a baby blanket or a throw pillow.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
34. Labyrinth
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
35. Butterfly Bowknots
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
36. Two Color Royal Quilting
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
37. Bee Stitch
Time to get busy and learn how to knit the bee stitch! Purl haters – this one’s for you. Using just knit stitches (and some clever needle placements) you can recreate the subtle all-over texture of the beautiful bee stitch.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
38. Woven Basket
The woven basket stitch is similar to the criss cross 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
39. Zig Zag Loop
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?
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
40. Eiffel Tower Stitch
Add a touch of sophistication to any knit 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!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
41. Square Buttons
Beginner and experienced knitters alike will love the simplicity of the square buttons stitch. 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
42. Beech Stitch
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 patten is such a neat and simple way of adding some interest and texture to your projects!
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
43. Burst of Fire
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 it’s interesting surface. The eyelet lace details will give your work excellent drape without sacrificing on structure.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
44. Alternating Welted Leaf
Make your knitting needles dance to the lovely 1, 2, 3, 4 waltz-like pace 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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
45. Wave Stitch
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
46. Vines Lace Stitch
Twining tendrils of delicate vines are the hallmark of this distinctive and feminine knit stitch pattern. The free knitting tutorial calls for knit, purl, yarn over, knit 2 together and slipped stitches. This would be a great knitting stitch for a shawl or a lightweight cardigan.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
47. Strawberry Seed Stitch
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.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
48. Dandelion Flower
Make a wish! I know some people consider dandelions to be a nuisance, but I have always appreciate their whimsicalness. Plus, they’re bee-friendly! You can capture their signature charm with the stylish dandelion flower stitch.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
49. Tilted Block
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 slip knit stitches. The flamboyant nature of this stitch design will instantly attract attention, so why not use it for an accent?
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
50. Mock Honeycomb
Can’t quite get the hang of the honeycomb stitch? Try your hand at this mock honeycomb stitch alternative. This knit stitch pattern calls for knit, purl and slipped stitches. The generous texture and solid surface are perfect for cozy throws and cardigans.
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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 stiches 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.
Don’t forget, sharing is caring! Send this free knitting pattern round-up to all your knitting friends so they can join in on the fun too! Bookmark this page or save the link to your Pinterest board for amazing knitting patterns.
I’ll see you next week for another free knitting pattern round-up. Make sure to follow the blog so you never miss a post. <3
Happy Knitting!
Amanda
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).
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. 😊