Herringbone Stitch

Sample knit with Araucania Azapa on US Size 11 needles

This weeks stitch was requested by one of my YouTube friends.

If you like this stitch, try the Little Herringbone Stitch.

Here is a video for knitting this stitch in the round. 

There are a number of stitches named herringbone.  Some look like the one above, some do not.  

I used the Twice Knit Knitting method to do this weeks stitch, and the instructions below are also in Barbara Walker's Second Treasury as I have them below.  She calls it Double Stockinette or Little Herringbone stitch.

This particular method creates a very dense fabric, so you should use a larger needle than called for on your ball band.  Even a lighter weight yarn will yield a fairly dense fabric when knit with larger needles.

Cast on any number of stitches

Row 1: K2tog through the back loop - drop only the first stitch from the left needle, the second stitch should remain on left needle.  Knit next two stitches through the back loop, dropping only the first stitch from left needle as before.  Continue working in this manner to last stitch, Knit one as normal.

Row 2: P2tog, dropping only the first stitch from left needle.  Purl next two stitches together, dropping only first stitch as before.  Continue working in this manner to last stitch, Purl one as normal.

Repeat these two rows.

And here is the video:

I've had some questions on picking up dropped stitches with this particular stitch, so here is a video that I hope will answer any questions folks may have:

Zig Zag or Chevron Stitch

                               This sample knit as per pattern below, in Lily Sugar n Cream Cotton Yarn on US Size 6 needles

This sample was knit in Lily Sugar n Cream on US Size 9 needles, all in garter sitch

This sample was knit in Lily Sugar n Cream on US Size 10 needles, and I used a YO instead of  KFB to increase

This stitch pattern was requested by one of my YouTube friends!  Before I get into the details, I want to share a short story about this stitch pattern with you.  Back when I first began knitting, I came across this particular stitch, I think on a website.  The picture of the stitch did not show the points at the bottom of the fabric, just the middle of the sample.  I did not know the stitch would cause the fabric to come to points, and so as I was knitting my scarf, and the points were forming, I was a little concerned but not much.  I figured that I could block it into shape! (I don't know why I thought the fabric was not supposed to do this, but I did.) I was using a cheap acrylic yarn, and of course blocking did not help.  So I decided to iron it instead.  No matter how hard I tried, I could not get rid of those points!  I did do a pretty good job of completely flattening the yarn though.  I never wore the scarf, and am not even sure what ever happened to it.  At some later time, I came across this stitch pattern again, where someone did show the points in their picture, and I felt like a complete idiot.  So, just incase you, dear knitter, are not aware that this stitch pattern will produce lovely points on your fabric, I have made sure that the points are included in the sample pictures above.

Now.  Here are the details.  The instructions below will give you fabric that looks like the first picture, with the black and white yarn.   You certainly are not limited to only two colors, or to switching colors after Row 4.  Feel free to use as many or few colors as you like, and switch them as often as you like.  

You may also see this stitch pattern named Afghan Stitch - there are a number of variations on this stitch pattern.  Whatever you call it, or whatever particular method you use, you will end up with something that looks like the pictures above.

And I always assume that you will be watching the video, in which I usually tell you what the abbreviations are for, but if not:

KFB = Knit into the front and back of the next stitch

SSK = Slip the next two stitches knitwise, one at a time, and then knit them together through the back loop.  I actually like to slip the second stitch purlwise, but most of the time patterns will instruct you to slip both knitwise.  Either way will work, but I find that by slipping the second stitch purlwise, it makes the stitches a bit neater

K2tog = Knit the next two stitches together as if they were one

Cast on a multiple of 14 + 2

Rows 1 and 3:  Purl all stitches

Rows 2 and 4: K1, KFB, K4, SSK, K2tog, K4 *KFB, KFB, K4, SSK, K2tog, K4* Repeat from * to last 2 stitches, KFB, K1

Repeat these 4 rows for the pattern.  

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Knotted Open Work and Open Star Stitch

Open Star Stitch, Lily Sugar n Cream, US Size 6 needles

Knotted Open Work, Lily Sugar n Cream, US Size 6 needles

Knotted Open Work was a requested stitch, and when I was looking through my stitch books to see if it was known by another name, I found Open Star Stitch.  They are almost identical, except that Open Star Stitch is more knotty and textured.  

Both are worked on a multiple of 3 stitches, plus 3

Open Star Stitch:

Row 1: (Wrong Side) K2, *YO, K3 - then pass the first stitch over the second and third sts*  Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

Row 2: Knit all stitches

Row 3: K1, *K3 - then pass the first stitch over the second and third sts, YO* Repeat from * to last two stitches, K2

Row 4: Knit all stitches

Repeat these 4 Rows for pattern

Knotted Open Work:

Row 1: (Right Side) K2, *YO, K3 - then pass the first stitch over the second and third sts*  Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

Row 2: Purl all stitches

Row 3: K1, *K3 - then pass the first stitch over the second and third sts, YO* Repeat from * to last two stitches, K2

Row 4: Purl all stitches

Repeat these 4 Rows for pattern

Here is a video with both stitches.  Enjoy!

  

Trellis Lace, Vertical Version

Sample knit with Lily Sugar n Cream cotton on US Size 6 needles

A couple of weeks or so ago, I posted this stitch pattern for either left or right slanting fabric, and noted that I would be posting the vertical version at some point in the future, or sooner if requested.  It was requested, so here is the pattern for the vertical version of Trellis Lace!

Work on an odd number of stitches

Rows 1 and 3: Purl all stitches

Row 2: K1, *YO, K2tog*  Repeat from * to end of row

Row 4: *SSK, YO*  Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

Repeat these four rows for the pattern

Here is the video.  Enjoy!

Waterfall Stitch

Sample knit with Lily Sugar n Cream Cotton on US Size 6 needles

Cast on a multiple of 6 plus 3

Row 1: K3, *P3, K3*  (This is the wrong side of the fabric)

Row 2: P3, *K3, YO, P3*

Row 3: K3, *P4, K3*

Row 4: P3, *K1, K2tog, YO, K1, P3*

Row 5: K3, *P2, P2tog, K3*

Row 6: P3, *K1, YO, K2tog, P3*

Repeat these 6 Rows for the pattern

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Rickrack Rib

Sample knit with Araucania Ruca on US Size 6 needles

I think this is my new favorite rib stitch!  How cool is that zig zag effect?!  The look is achieved by working stitches out of order on each side of the fabric.  Looks like you did a lot of work, but this is really an easy stitch to master.  The first couple rows or so were a little tight for me, but once I got going I didn't have any problems.  It is also a tiny bit tricky working the stitches, but you will be zipping along once your hands get used to the motion.  

Work on a multiple of 3 stitches, plus 1

Row 1: P1, *Knit through the back loop of the second stitch on the left needle, then knit through the front of the first stitch, and drop them both from the needle at the same time, P1*

Row 2: K1, *Purl the second stitch on the left needle, then purl the first stitch, and drop them both from the needle at the same time, K1*

Repeat these two rows for the pattern.

Here is the video.  Enjoy!

Trellis Lace

Sample knit with Butterfly Cotton on US Size 6 needles

This beautiful lace stitch is very easy to do, and only a two row repeat.  As you can see from the picture, this can be knit to slant either to the left or the right.  (There is also a pattern for vertical trellis lace, which I will probably post at some point in the future - or sooner if asked!)

Abbreviations used in the pattern:

YO - yarn over

K2tog - knit two together

SSK - slip, slip, knit -- typically you will see instructions tell you to slip the two sts knitwise, which is fine.  Myself, I slip the first knitwise and the second purlwise, which I think makes the decrease a bit neater.  But it is up to you how you slip the stitches.

Work on an even number of stitches

Right Slant:

Row 1: K1, *YO, K2tog* Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

Row 2: Purl all stitches

Left Slant:

Row 1: K1, *SSK, YO*  Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

Row 2: Purl all stitches

See, I told you it was easy!

Here is the video.  Enjoy!

Ribbon Stitch

Ribbon Stitch Sample knit with Caron Simply Soft on US size 9 needles

How pretty is this?  I thought it was time for a little color work.  I don't often knit with more than one color, but this stitch makes me want to!  It is much easier than it looks too.

This pattern begins with 10 rows, then after the initial 10 rows you will only be repeating 3-10.  Row 1 is a knit row, and Row 2 is a purl row, which gives you a stockinette base.  Despite being all knit/purl rows, this fabric lays flat; there is no curling.  I think the edges are pretty darn sloppy, even though the pattern suggests an extra stitch on each edge for neatness.  I would probably add a few more stitches to the edges for a more significant border.  

Work on a multiple of 4 stitches, plus 3 - plus 2 more, one for each edge   (My sample was worked on 13 stitches.  Multiple of 4 is 8, plus 3 = 11 stitches for the pattern, plus the 2 edge stitches = 13 stitches total)

You will need two different colors of yarn.  Choose any colors you like - they can be complimentary, or contrasting colors.  If it looks good to you, then you've chosen the right colors!  (For the record, I like pink and red together, even though they "clash".  Remember, there are no rules.)

Pattern notes:

Pwise = purlwise - as if to purl

wyib = with the yarn held in back of the work

wyif = with the yarn held in front of the work

With Color A

Row 1 (Right Side): Knit all stitches

Row 2 : Purl all stitches

With Color B

Row 3: K1 (edge st) *K3, Sl 1 pwise wyib* Repeat from * to last 4 stitches - K3, then K1 (edge st)

Row 4: K1, K3, *Sl 1 pwise wyif, K3* Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

With Color A

Row 5: Knit all stitches

Row 6: Purl all stitches

With Color B

Row 7: K1, *K1, Sl 1 pwise wyib, K2* Repeat from * to last 4 stitches, K1, Sl 1 pwise wyib, K1, then K1 (edge st)

Row 8: K1 (edge st) K1, Sl 1 pwise wyif, K1, *K2, Sl 1 pwise wyif, K1* Repeat from * to last stitch, K1 (edge st)

With Color A

Row 9: Knit all stitches

Row 10: Purl all stitches

Repeat from ROW 3 for pattern.

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Veil Stitch

Sample knit with Araucania Ruca on US Size 9 needles

I have been wanting to learn this stitch for ages!  However, the written instructions stumped me to no end.  It just didn't make sense to me.  Recently my sister was here for a visit, so I asked her to see if she could figure it out.  Of course, she did!  She has a knack for being good at all things crafty and creative.  I think it took her all of 10 minutes to master Veil Stitch!

Not so much a stitch as it is a technique, Veil Stitch elongates and twists the stitches and produces a mesh-like fabric that is beautiful.  I debated whether or not to even post written instructions or not, since it is hard to describe - and I decided that along with a few pictures, it might make a little sense.  There is a video of course, so if the pictures and words don't make sense, give the video a try.  You probably won't get it the first (or second, or third) time you try, but don't give up!!  Once your hands get used to the movements, it's a piece of cake!  I promise.  And you will be glad once you get the hang of it.

First, in words and pictures:

Work on any number of stitches you like.

1: Insert the right needle into the next stitch on your left needle, as if to knit.  Do not make a knit stitch though!

2: Bring the working yarn between the needles to the front of the work

3: Take the yarn over the top of the left needle, and over the top of the right needle

4: Take the yarn under the right needle, and then over again

5: Pull the yarn through the front leg of your original stitch from the left needle - just as you would for a normal knit stitch and let the yarn drop from the left needle.

Repeat steps 1-5.  Both sides of the fabric are worked in the same manner

Confused??  I was.  Here are a few pictures that may help

Insert the right needle into the next stitch on your left needle, as you would for a normal knit stitch 

Bring the working yarn between the needles - the yarn should be going over the top of the left needle

Now, take the yarn over the top of the right needle.  Do you see how the yarns form an 'X'?  The strand that is slanting from left to right, is the front leg of the stitch on the left needle. 

Next, take the yarn under the right needle, and over the top again

Pull the yarn through the front leg of the original stitch on the left needle - just as you would when making a normal knit stitch.  Your needle is already through the front leg of that stitch, all you are doing now is pulling the wrap from the step above back through that original stitch.  Remember the 'X' your yarn made?  You are pulling the yarn through the bottom of the 'X'.  

Finally, here is the video, which along with the pictures I hope will help you to get the hang of Veil Stitch.  Good luck and Enjoy!

Lorne Pattern - Vintage Stitch Series

Sample knit with Caron Simply Soft on US size 7 needles

This is the next stitch in the Vintage Series that I love.  This one comes from The Lady's Knitting Book, Second Series published in 1881 by E. M. C.   

The pattern calls for "plus 2" stitches - one to be knit on each edge.  If using this stitch alone in your pattern, I would add a few more to make a wider border, because the edges look a little sloppy to me.  If you are a tight knitter, try to loosen up a bit, or use a larger needle so the 'knit 3 together' will be a bit easier on you.

Cast on a multiple of 5 stitches plus 2

Row 1: K1, *K2, YO, K3tog, YO*, repeat from * to end, Knit last stitch

Row 2: K1, *P3, K2*, repeat from * to end, Knit last stitch

Row 3: K1, *P2, K3*, repeat from * to end, Knit last stitch

Repeat these three rows for pattern.

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Ripple Stitch

Sample knit with Patons Silk Bamboo on US 7 needles

I've decided to post an additional stitch for this week, since "A Pretty Stitch" is a duplicate :0)  Also, this stitch was used in one of the scarves I showed you in my How to Knit a Scarf video, and someone had asked about the pattern.  There is no pattern for the scarf itself, I made it up and didn't bother to write it down.  I just added a simple garter/yarn over border to the Ripple Stitch pattern to make the scarf.  

Work on a multiple of 5 stitches, plus 2

Pattern Note:  All slipped stitches are to be slipped purl-wise, with the yarn held in the front of the work (wyif)

Row 1: K1, *P1, Sl2 wyif, P2tog, YO*, K last stitch

Row 2 and all even numbered Rows: Purl all stitches

Row 3: K1, *Sl2, P2tog, YO, P1*, Knit last stitch

Row 5: K1, Sl1, *P2tog, YO, P1, Sl2*, end last repeat with Sl1, and Knit last stitch

Row 7: K1, *P2tog, YO, P1, Sl2*, Knit last stitch

Row 9: K1, P2, *Sl2, P2tog, YO, P1*, end last repeat with Sl2, P1, and Knit last stitch

Repeat these 10 Rows for pattern.

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

A Pretty Stitch: Vintage Stitch Series

Sample knit with Patons Angora Bamboo on US 7 needles

This weeks stitch comes from My Knitting Book, by Miss Lambert, which was published in 1845.  There is no real name for this stitch.  The book simply calls it "A pretty stitch for a purse".  Good enough for me!  This stitch does look awfully familiar to me though.  I briefly went through a few of my stitch books and posts on this blog, but couldn't find it.  It's possible I am wrong, but I could swear I know this stitch!  Perhaps there is a similar stitch I am thinking of, not this particular one.  If anyone recognizes this stitch, please let me know.  I am curious to see if this has a name in some other book.

UPDATE 11/5: jessontube1 has found the stitch!  It is pebble stitch, which I posted back on May 4, 2011.  Sorry for the duplicate, all.  I will try to get another one up tomorrow - one that I haven't posted already!  **Second Update 11/6:  I happened to come across a very similar stitch in The Big Book of Knitting Stitch Patterns, but called Knotted Stitch. 

This is a very simple and pretty stitch, useful for many other items besides a purse :0)

Cast on an even number of stitches

Row 1: Knit  (You will only work Row 1 once, it is not included in the repeat)

Row 2: Knit 1 *K2tog* Knit last stitch

Row 3: *Knit 1, Make one by knitting into the bar between the stitch you just knit and the next stitch on your left needle* Knit two.  (When you come to the last two stitches, you will not knit the bar between them.  If you do, this will give you an unnecessary extra stitch)

Row 4: Knit

Row 5: Purl

Repeat from Row 2 for pattern.

And of course, here is the video.  Enjoy!

Wheat Ear Cable

Sample knit with Lighthouse Waves Yarn on US size 6 needles

Looking through the stitches I have covered so far, I realized that I haven't paid much attention to cables.  Not because I don't like them, but mostly because the cable patterns I lean towards are too long to video, and I like to have a corresponding video for the stitch patterns I post.  Then I found this one, which is only a 4 row repeat on 10+2 stitches.

Multiple of 10 stitches, plus 2

Pattern note: C4B = Slip 2 sts to cable needle and hold at back of work, knit 2 sts from left needle then knit the 2 sts from cable needle.  C4F = Slip 2 sts to cable needle and hold at front of work, knit 2 sts from left needle then knit the 2 sts from cable needle

Row 1: P2, *K8, P2*
Rows 2 and 4: K2, *P8, K2*
Row 3: P2, *C4B,C4F, P2*

Repeat these four rows for pattern

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Lacy Ribbing

Lacy Ribbing sample knit with Patons Silk Bamboo on US size 6 neeldes

I was a bit unsure of which stitch to sample for this week; as I was looking back through the stitches already posted, I decided it was time for another type of rib stitch.  So here is a lovely, lace ribbing.  Very easy to do and with only two rows, easy to remember also.  

Depending on what you are using this stitch for, I would recommend adding at least one more stitch on each side for a border; the 'plus 2' in the instructions is for edge stitches, but in my opinion would look better with a wider border, particularly if you plan to use this stitch alone for a scarf.  If you just want to use this in a project where it will be surrounded by another pattern, then don't worry about the edge stitches.

Cast on a multiple of 3 stitches plus 2

Row 1: K1, *P1, K2tog, YO*.  Repeat from * to last stitch, K1

Row 2: P3, *K1, P2*.  Repeat from * to last two stitches, K1, P1

Repeat these two rows for the pattern.

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Alencon Lace: Vintage Stitch Series

Sample knit with Butterfly Super 10 Mercerized Cotton yarn from Mouzakis on US size 8 needles

Another beautiful vintage stitch - Alencon Lace.  This makes a narrow lace edging, good to use on whatever you like.

Pattern notes: 

YO(2) - make a yarn over twice - wrap the yarn around your needle two times, instead of once as for a regular yarn over.  Both of these wraps will be worked in the next row.

In Row 2, the P1 is to be worked on the second wrap of the double yarn over from Row 1.

To make a yarn over at the beginning as in Row 2, just place your right needle under the yarn, hold it in place with your index finger, and then begin knitting as normal.

Cast on 10 stitches

Row 1: K3, YO, K2tog, YO(2), K2tog, YO(2), K2tog, K1

Row 2: YO, K3, P1, K2, P1, K2, YO, K2tog, K1

Row 3: K3, YO, K2tog, K8

Row 4: Bind off 3 stitches, K6, YO, K2tog, K1

Repeat these four rows until the piece is as long as you like.

And here is the video - don't mind the cat.  Sorry for the funky lighting on this one; it is extremely windy today, so I filmed inside in front of a window.  The sun was behind a tree outside of the window, so you can sometimes see shadows moving around - that is the branches of the tree blowing around.  

Lemon Seed Lace: Vintage Stitch Series

Sample knit with fingering weight yarn on US 8 needles

I am in love with this stitch!  How pretty is this?!

This was published in the NY Tribune on May 29, 1881, contributed by "Miss Newton".  

Cast on 23 stitches

Row 1:  K3, YO, K2TOG, K3, YO, K1, YO, K5, YO, K2TOG, YO, K2TOG, YO [4], K2TOG, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 2: K5, P1, K1, P1, K1, P1, K1, P1, K13, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 3: K3, YO, K2TOG, K1, K2TOG, YO, K3, YO, K2TOG, K3, YO, K2TOG, K1, YO, K2TOG, K4, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 4: K8, P1, K2, P1, K13, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 5: K3, YO, K2TOG [2], YO, K5, YO, K2TOG, K2, YO, K2TOG, K2, YO, K2TOG, K3, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 6: K7, P1, K3, P1, K13, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 7: K3, YO, K3TOG, YO, K2TOG, K3, K2TOG, YO, K2TOG, K1, YO, K2TOG, K3, YO, K2TOG, K2, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 8: K6, P1, K4, P1, K11, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 9: K3, YO, K2TOG, K1, YO, K2TOG, K1, K2TOG, YO, K3, YO, K2TOG, K4, YO, K2TOG, K1, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 10: K5, P1, K5, P1, K11, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 11: K3, YO, K2TOG, K2, YO, SL 1, K2TOG, PSSO, YO, K4, YO, K2TOG, K5, YO, K2TOG, YO, K2TOG, K1

Row 12: BIND OFF 3 STS, K7, P1, K11, YO, K2TOG, K1

Repeat these 12 rows for desired length.

Here is the video.  This updates the original video posted with this pattern to show the pattern in its entirety.  Happy Knitting! 

Spider Stitch

Sample knit with Caron Simply Soft,  on US size 6 needles

I hate spiders, but I love spider stitch patterns!  I think a lacy scarf or shawlette (or whatever you like) would be beautiful in spider stitch on a lace weight yarn.  I used a heavier weight just for the sake of everyone being able to see it in the above sample.  I did a video way back of a spider stitch pattern, and being close to Halloween now, thought it was time to do another.  This is a very easy stitch to master, don't let the 'K3tog' scare you away.  If you are a tight knitter, you may want to try and knit a little more loosely than normal so you can work that part of the pattern.  Also, some of the rows begin with a YO, and since I don't have any border stitches in my sample, you get to see how to do an YO at the beginning of a row!  Aren't you excited?!?

Work on a multiple of 6 stitches, and I recommend adding a few more for a border so you have nice clean edges.  If you are just going to use this stitch within another pattern, then don't worry about adding extra stitches.  I'm partial to seed stitch borders, myself.  Moving on...

Row 1: Knit all stitches

Row 2: Purl all stitches

Row 3: YO, K3tog, YO, K2tog, YO, K1

Row 4: Purl all stitches

Row 5: YO, K2tog, YO, K1, YO, K3tog

Row 6: Purl all stitches

Repeat Rows 3-6 for the pattern.

And as always, there is an accompanying video for this stitch.  I apologize if I go a little fast, I usually film outside so I get good light, but it is cold and rainy today, and my fingers were starting to go numb from the cold. I was trying to hurry so I could get back inside!

Irish Mesh

Sample knit with Caron Simply Soft, 12 stitches on US size 8 needles

If I were skilled at sewing, I would love to knit a little bag using this stitch, and sew in a satin liner.  I think it would look very pretty in a lighter weight yarn and lined with contrasting fabric!  Whatever you use this stitch for, will look very pretty.  My swatch did have slightly curling edges, so if you use this stitch for a scarf, I would add a border to help keep the fabric flat.  

Work with a multiple of 3 stitches

Row 1: K2 *YO, Sl 1, K2, PSSO* Repeat from *, Knit last stitch  (PSSO=Pass the slipped stitch over the 2 knit stitches)

Row 2: Purl all stitches

Row 3: K1 *Sl 1, K2, PSSO, YO* Repeat from *,  Knit last two stitches

Row 4: Purl all stitches

Repeat these 4 rows for pattern.  Enjoy!

Wrapped Stitch

Right Side

Wrapped Stitch is a beautiful stitch that is easier than it looks.  Worked over only two rows, this stitch pattern is also easy to remember.  The sample above was worked on 14 stitches in Araucania Azapa on size US 10.5 needles.

Work with a multiple of 2 stitches, plus 2
Row 1:  Purl all stitches (Wrong side)
Row 2: Knit 1 *YO, K 2, Pass the YO over the two stitches just knit*  Repeat from * to last stitch, K 1

Repeat these two rows for pattern.

As I always say, don't forget to check out the back of your fabric.  I happen to love the knubby texture on the back of this fabric.  If I made a scarf or dish cloth using this stitch, I would consider it reversible because I like the appearance of the wrong side.  But to each his (or her) own!  Here is what the back side looks like:

Wrong Side

And here is a video for this stitch - I only demonstrate Row 2, I'm sure you all know how to purl :0)

Wicker Stitch

Sample knit with Cascade 220

This stitch makes a somewhat dense fabric.  The twisted or woven effect is achieved by working the stitches in groups of two - the second stitch is worked first, and then the first stitch is worked, and then both are dropped from the left needle.  It's not as complicated as it sounds, it's actually fairly simple.

This is a two row repeat, worked on a multiple of two stitches, and you can add as many or as few extra stitches as you like to create a border if you wish.  My favorite border to add to most of my knitted items is a seed stitch border, but a garter stitch border works just as well.  Whatever you like!

Row 1: Knit second stitch on left needle through the back loop, leaving it on the left needle.  Then, knit the first stitch through the back loop, and drop both from the left needle at the same time.  

Row 2: Purl one, Purl the second stitch, leaving it on the left needle.  Then, purl the first stitch, and drop both from the left needle at the same time.  Repeat to last stitch, Purl 1.

Repeat these two rows for pattern.

Here is the video for this stitch.  Enjoy!

Rosette Stitch

Rosette Stitch is a very pretty, textured stitch.  I like how the wrong side of the fabric looks also.

This is the front of the fabric:

And this is the back:

 
This is a simple four row repeat, worked on an even number of stitches.  I think the edges look sloppy, so depending on what you are knitting, you may want to consider adding a border, or just an extra stitch on each side to slip at the beginning of each row.

Row 1: Knit all stitches (Right side)
Row 2: Purl 2 together, leaving stitches on the left needle; now, Knit the same 2 stitches together, dropping off the left needle
Row 3: Knit all stitches
Row 4: Purl 1, *Purl 2 together, Knit the same 2 stitches together (as in Row 2)*, Purl last stitch
Repeat these 4 rows for pattern

And here is the video.  Enjoy!

Honeycomb Lace

Sample knit with Aunt Lydia's Bamboo Crochet Thread on US Size 0 needles

This is a really lovely stitch based on a simple four row repeat.

Work with a multiple of 3 stitches, plus 1

1. Row 1: P1 *K1, P2.  Repeat from * to end of row (This is the wrong side of the fabric)
2. Row 2: K1 *YO, K1, K2tog.  Repeat from * to end of row
3. Row 3: P1 *P1, K1.  Repeat from * to end of row
4. Row 4: K1 *K2tog, YO, K1.  Repeat from * to end of row

Repeat these four rows for pattern.

I am not including a video for this stitch, because I feel that it is a pretty easy stitch.  If anyone would still like to see a video, just let me know and I will do one.

VIDEO HAS BEEN ADDED BY REQUEST.  ENJOY!

Loop or Fur Stitch

This is a fun, funky stitch that, while it takes a bit of practice, is not as hard as it may look.  I would recommend using this only as an accent on the ends of a scarf, or other small project for the simple reason that it uses up a good deal of extra yarn to make the loops.  However, you can do a whole project using this stitch if you wish.

I have seen this in several stitch books and around the net, and honestly the instructions are a bit confusing. I am going to write it up as it makes sense to me, and along with the video I hope makes sense to you as well.

This stitch has a lot of flexibility; I think it looks best in a medium weight yarn, but feel free to use any yarn you like.  In the above sample, I made double loops in each stitch.  If you decide to use a chunky, thick yarn, you may want to do every other stitch, or just single loops.  Also, you can play around with which rows have the loops - maybe every few rows for example.  Again... up to you!

Use any number of stitches, plus 2 extra - one on each end just to keep the edges tidy.   Begin with a plain knit row, then make a row of loops.  Knit every other row.  (This will place loops on the front of your work.  If you want loops on both sides, then just replace the plain knit row with a loop row. )

For Double Loops:
Knit 1
Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, and make a knit stitch as normal, but don't drop it from the left needle.
Bring the yarn between the needles to the front of the work, then under and over the right thumb, and back between the needles.
Bring the yarn over the top of the left needle, over the top of the right thumb, and then between the needles so that the yarn is in the back, in position to knit.
Knit the two stitches together and drop them from the left needle ** The first stitch is the original stitch you started with and the second stitch is the one made when you bring the yarn over the top of the needle to make the second loop**
Now, slip the second stitch on the right needle over the stitch just knit.  Gently pull on the loops to snug up the stitch.
Repeat to end of row, knit 1.

For Single Loops:
Knit 1
Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, and make a knit stitch as normal, but don't drop it rom the needle.
Bring the yarn between the needles to the front of the work, then under and over the right thumb, and then back between the needles, so that you are ready to knit.
Knit the stitch and drop from left needle.
Now, slip the second stitch on the right needle over the stitch you just knit.  Gently pull on the loop to snug up the stitch.
Repeat to end of row, knit 1.

Now, I am sure this is very confusing in writing.  So, here is the video of how the loops are made.  Enjoy!

Sea Foam Stitch

Sea Foam Stitch knit with Lily Sugar'n Cream cotton yarn,  color is Pinky Stripes

While I love the look of this stitch, I have yet to use it in a project; all those extra strands of yarn tend to get in my way and I usually end up with more stitches on my needles than I am supposed to have.  I even had to restart this sample piece a few times.  The key, I think, is just taking your time and paying attention to what you are doing.  Once I slowed down, I was finally able to get it right.  Don't get me wrong, this is not a hard stitch to master, you just need to pay attention.

This is an 8 Row repeat, worked on a multiple of 10 stitches plus 6

• Rows 1-2: Knit all stitches
• Row 3: Knit 6, *YO (2x), Knit 1, YO (3x), K1, YO (4x), Knit 1, YO (3x), Knit 1, YO (2x), Knit 6.  Repeat from *
• Row 4: Knit, dropping all YO from needle
• Rows 5-6: Knit all stitches
• Row 7: Knit 1, *YO (2x), Knit 1, YO (3x), K1, YO (4x), Knit 1, YO (3x), Knit 1, YO (2x), Knit 6.  Repeat from *, ending last repeat of the row with a Knit 1
• Row 8: Knit, dropping all YO from needle
• Repeat these 8 rows for pattern

In the video below, I demonstrate Row 3, in which you are making the YO and Row 4, in which you drop all of the YO.  I hope this is helpful.  Enjoy!

Crossed Stitch

Crossed Stitch Cloth - Pattern below

For Crossed Stitch, work with an even number of stitches, plus 1 more on each side for the selvage.   This is a two row repeat that is easy to remember.  Depending on what you are making, the number of edge stitches can be adjusted to fit your project.

Row 1: Knit 1 (selvage) *Slip 1 with yarn in back, Knit 1, Yarn Over, Pass the Slipped Stitch over both the Knit Stitch and the Yarn Over*  Repeat to last stich, Knit 1 (selvage)

Row 2: Purl all stitches

Repeat these two rows for pattern

Yes, there is a video also.  Very brief, just showing how to do Row 1 of the pattern since I assume you don't want to watch me purl the second row :0)

Crossed Stitch Cloth Pattern

US Size 7 Needles

1 Ball Sugar'n Cream Cotton Yarn

Cast on 46 stitches

Row 1: *K1, P1*

Row 2: *P1, K1*

Row 3: K1, P1, K1, P1 *Slip 1 purlwise with yarn at back of work, Knit 1, Yarn Over, Pass the Slipped Stitch over both the Knit stitch and the Yarn Over*   Repeat from * to last 4 stitches - K1, P1, K1, P1

Row 4: P1, K1, P1, K1 - Purl to last 4 stitches - P1, K1, P1, K1

Repeat Rows 3-4 twenty-two more times

Repeat Row 1

Repeat Row 2

Bind off, weave in ends 

Finished piece measures appx. 8x8

You can make the cloth wider by adding more stitches, just be sure you have an even number.  The cloth can be made longer by repeating Rows 3 and 4 as many times as you like before finishing.  I strive to be error free before posting something to the public, but sometimes that doesn't happen.  If you find a mistake, feel free to leave me a comment so I can check it out.

This cloth is my own design.  You are free to use the pattern to knit cloths for yourself and friends/family; if you would like to share the pattern with others via your own blog, please link back to me.

Lacy Thorn Stitch

This is a pretty lace stitch, which is only a two row repeat so also very easy to remember.

Work on a multiple of 4 stitches plus 2:

Row 1: Knit 3 *YO, Slip 1, Knit 1, Pass the slipped stitch over the stitch just knit, Knit 2*, ending last repeat with Knit 1

Row 2: Knit 1 *Purl 2, YO, Purl 2 together*, ending last repeat with Knit 1

Repeat these two rows for the pattern.

Embossed Rib

Ribbing is back!  For this particular rib pattern, you will be doing things a little differently than k2, p2 or what have you.

Work this rib on an uneven number of stitches

Row 1: Knit all stitches
Row 2: Purl 1, Knit the stitch below the next stitch on the left needle, dropping both it and the unworked stitch off the left needle at the same time.  Repeat to end of row, ending with P1.

Repeat these two rows for pattern.

Confused?  As always, here is a video to help you out.  Enjoy!

Star Stitch

Want a free pattern for a hat knit with this stitch?  Click HERE to go to the Star Struck Hat pattern!

For Star Stitch, work with a multiple of 4 stitches, plus 1

To make the Stars, Purl 3 stitches together, leaving stitches on left needle; make a Yarn Over, and Purl the same 3 stitches together again, and then drop off left needle

Row 1: Knit all stitches (Right side of fabric)
Row 2: P1, *Make Star, P1*  Repeat from * to end
Row3: Knit all stitches
Row 4: P3, Make Star, *P1, Make Star*  Repeat from * to last 3 stitches, P3

Repeat these 4 rows for pattern.

Star Stitch in the Round:

To make the stars in the round - Knit 3 stitches together, leaving stitches on the left needle, Yarn Over, and Knit the same 3 stitches together again and drop from the left needle

Cast on a multiple of 4, place the stitch marker on your right needle and join to knit in the round, being careful that the stitches are not twisted

Round 1: Knit all stitches
Round 2: *Make Star, K1* - continue to end of round
Round 3: Knit all stitches
Round 4: Knit 2 *Make star, Knit 1* - continue to end of round.  (You will only be knitting two at the beginning of this round.  In all other instances, you will only knit 1)  You will end the round by making a star; you will see that you have two stitches before your stitch marker, and one after the stitch marker.  Slip two stitches to the right needle (slip purlwise so the stitches are not twisted), remove your stitch marker, and slip the two stitches back to the left needle.  Now, make your star, and then slip one stitch back to the left needle, place the marker on the right needle.  The marker will be back in the same position it was before you removed it to make the star and will correctly mark the end/beginning of the round.

Repeat Round 1-4 for pattern



As always, if you are a visual learner, here is a video demonstration of the stitch.  Rows 1 and 3 are not shown in the video as they are just plain knit rows.  Rows 2 and 4 are demonstrated to show you how to make the Stars.  (This video demonstrates the flat stitch pattern)