Simple Checker Stitch

This is a very simple stitch pattern, and looks good for either guys or gals.  A few years ago, a male friend wanted me to make a scarf for him, and this is the stitch pattern I chose.  Very easy to remember too.  (This sample was knit with wool, and is not blocked.  The squares will look more crisp and clean once blocked.)

Cast on a multiple of 8.

Rows 1-5:  *K4, P4*
Rows 6-10: *P4, K4*

Repeat these 10 rows for pattern.

Colored Tweed Stitch

This week we are going to do a little bit of color work.  If you have never worked with more than one color at a time before, don't worry.  It isn't hard, just takes a little getting used to having an extra strand of yarn hanging around.  This stitch makes a nice, dense fabric which I like to use for wash cloths.  Of course, you can use it for anything you like.

Work with an even number of stitches

Note: All slipped stitches are slipped with the yarn held on the right side of your work

(Right Side) Row 1, Color A: *Knit 1, Slip 1 as if to purl*, to last two stitches.  End row with Knit 2

(Wrong Side) Row 2, Color A: *Purl 1, Slip 1*, to last two stitches.  End row with Purl 2

Row 3: Change to Color B - repeat Row 1

Row 4: Still using Color B - repeat Row 2

Repeat these two rows for pattern 

I can't find a video for this stitch, and can't imagine why I didn't do one.  Two Color Tweed Stitch is very similar to this one, you may find it useful to watch.

Rice Stitch

This week we have Rice Stitch.  A lovely combination of knits and purls, this two row repeat stitch pattern is very easy to remember.

Work on a multiple of 2 stitches, plus 1
Row 1: Purl 1, *Knit 1 through the back loop, Purl 1*
Row 2: Knit all stitches

Note:  I have seen this stitch pattern written as "Purl 1, Knit 1" for the first row.  (There is also a stitch called Sand Stitch, which I have found to be the same - this video demonstrates both.)  You may choose to work that pattern that way if you have difficulty knitting through the back loop.

Waffle Stitch

Waffle Stitch is a lovely stitch.  This is a 4 row repeat using only knit and purl stitches, so if you are new to knitting, will give you a chance to practice both stitches.

Work with a multiple of 3 stitches, plus 1
Rows 1 and 3: Purl 1, *Knit 2, Purl 1*
Row 2: Knit 1, *Purl 2, Knit 1*
Row 4: Knit all stitches
Repeat these four rows for pattern.

Don't forget to look at the back of your knitting.  What is deemed as the 'wrong' side may be just as nice as the 'right' side of the fabric.  For instance, the back of Waffle Stitch looks like Knit 1, Purl 3 ribbing.  While it really isn't technically ribbing, it still looks pretty!