Browse our collection of knitting stitches and find the perfect stitch for your next project! Whether you're new to the craft or you've been knitting for years, we have a stitch for you.
Start with our knitting stitches for beginners, where you can learn the foundation stitches that every new knitter needs to know, then move on to beautiful textures, decorative stitches and more.
Next, check out our knit and purl stitch patterns – you'll be amazed how many stylish combinations can be created from these two simple stitches.
If you're a garment knitter then you need our moss and rib stitch patterns. Perfect for cuffs and collars, they're a great way to add a sophisticated touch to any project. You'll never want to use a plain 2x2 rib again!
For more advanced knitting stitch patterns, give our cables, lace and slip stitches a try. With pretty twists, airy openwork, and clever colour changes, there's something for everyone. Why not make a stitch sampler blanket to show off your new-found skills?
Scroll down to see our entire library of over 130 knitting stitches. Simply click on the images and you'll be taken to the free patterns.
In our knitting stitches collection you will find:
Knitting stitches for beginners
New to knitting? These knitting stitches are the place to start!
First you need to know how to knit and purl. Follow our guides to master the two fundamental stitches that every knitter will learn.
If you need help starting and finishing your knitting, see our guides on how to cast on knitting and casting off knitting.
Knit stitch
The knit stitch is the foundation of all knitting. It's the first you'll learn when you're starting out.
Purl stitch
Reverse the action of making knit stitches to create purls. The purl is one of the most important stitches in knitting.
Now you've mastered the basic stitches, it's time to put them together to make your first stitch patterns.
Garter stitch, stocking stitch, rib stitch and moss stitch are four foundational stitches you'll encounter all the time in knitting patterns, so follow our guides linked below to try them.
Check out our knitting for beginners masterclass for more top tips for newbies.
Garter stitch
The first, and simplest, stitch you'll learn – but it's not just for beginners! Garter stitch is hugely versatile, and it's reversible too.
Stocking stitch
Stocking stitch is one of the most widely used knitting stitch patterns, and for good reason – it's simple to work and produces a beautiful, flexible fabric.
Rib stitch
Switch between knit and purl stitches on the same row to create stretchy rib stitch, often used for hems, cuffs, and edges on garments.
Moss stitch
Alternate between knits and purls to create this textured stitch. It's reversible, strong, and lies flat, making it perfect for cuffs, collars and blanket squares.
Knitting stitches for increasing and decreasing
Learn how to change the number of stitches on your needle by increasing and decreasing.
These stitches enable you to make your knitting wider or narrower, and they're also used to create more intricate stitch patterns, such as the ones used in lace knitting.
We'll start with four types of increase:
M1L (make one left) increase
Pick up the strand between two stitches on the previous row to increase by one. Also known as M1, it leans to the left.
M1R (make one right) increase
This stitch leans to the right, mirroring M1L. It's created by picking up the strand on the previous row in the opposite way.
KFB (knit front and back) increase
Knit into the front and back loop of the next stitch to increase by one. This stitch leaves a small, textured bump.
Yarn over increase
Wrap the yarn around the needle to make a new stitch. This increase is often used decoratively, as it creates a hole.
Now let's learn how to decrease, with six of the stitches you're most likely to see in knitting patterns:
K2tog (knit two together) decrease
This is the most common decrease in knitting. It reduces your stitch count by one and the stitch leans to the right.
Ssk (slip, slip, knit) decrease
Another common decrease, ssk reduces the stitch count by one. It's often paired with k2tog and leans to the left.
P2tog (purl two together) decrease
Worked on the wrong side of the fabric, p2tog is the purl equivalent of k2tog. It looks the same on the right side.
Ssp (slip, slip, purl) decrease
Worked on the wrong side of the fabric, ssp is the purl equivalent of ssk. Often paired with p2tog.
Skpo (slip, knit, pass over) decrease
Slip a stitch, knit the next stitch and pass the slipped stitch over to decrease by one. Like ssk, this stitch leans to the left.
S2kpo (slip 2 together, knit 1, pass over slipped stitch)
Also known as CDD (central double decrease), this stitch leans neither left nor right. Instead it creates a straight line.
Finishing stitches
Add the final touches to your projects with guides to Kitchener stitch, duplicate stitch (Swiss darning) and mattress stitch.
Knit and purl stitch patterns
When you know how to do a knit stitch and how to purl in knitting you can create all sorts of incredible, complex-looking knitting stitches. No one will ever guess how easy they are to work!
We show you how it's done in our knit and purl pattern collection, which is packed with ideas for adding texture to your knits.
Checkerboard
Play with elongated purls (made by wrapping the yarn twice) to create this distinctive pattern.
Columns and stripes
Stripes of stocking stitch break up columns of texture in this easy beginner pattern.
Double basket
Use alternating horizontal and vertical stripes to make this pretty basketweave effect.
Garter diamonds
These subtle garter stitch diamonds would look gorgeous on a gansey sweater.
Hurdle stitch
This stitch gets its name from its garter ridges, which look like the hurdles in a horse race. Giddy up!
Little purl chevron
Diagonal rows of purl stitches form a chevron pattern in this clever knitting stitch.
Raised diamonds
Wouldn't these diamonds look fantastic on a pair of socks? Get creative and design your own!
Rows and columns
Discover the k1b stitch as you knit into the row below to create these orderly stripes.
Tessellation
Switch between garter stitch and stocking stitch to make a pattern of raised triangles.
Two colour dip
Work into stitches 6 rows below to create an eye-catching brickwork design.
Textured stitch patterns
Super-charge your knits and purls to create these tempting textures!
Adding simple increase stitches and knitting decreases to your knit and purl patterns opens up a huge range of possibilities. Here are some of the effects you can create…
Berry stitch
Looking like a punnet of blackberries, these bobble stitches are a joy to work.
Busy bees
Buzz, buzz, buzz! Use yarn overs passed over knit stitches to create these little bees.
Cocoon
This cosy stripe and texture combo is one of our favourites for baby blankets.
Faux smocking
Add a touch of the cottagecore aesthetic to your knits with this faux smocked texture.
Little clusters
Want to practice increasing and decreasing? Learn k2tog and kfb with this simple stitch.
Little wings
You could be fooled into thinking these arch shapes are cables – but they're not!
Puffed wheat
This fun puffy stitch makes a gorgeously tactile 3D fabric that kids will love.
Skip to a section in our knitting stitch patterns collection:
Rib stitch knitting patterns
Ribbing stitches are the workhorses of the knitting world, useful for everything from jumper collars and sock cuffs to hat brims – but they don't have to be purely functional.
Take a step away from plain 1x1 and 2x2 rib and give these decorative versions a go. A fancy rib can elevate your design to the next level!
Bamboo rib stitch
Knitted rows make this stitch look like bamboo shoots. An easy one for beginners.
Broken rib stitch version 1: columns
Breaking up the columns of rib stitches creates rows of wave-like texture. Simple but effective!
Broken rib stitch version 2: mock rib
Mix rib with slipped stitches to form an interesting pattern of staggered columns.
Chequered rib stitch
Why not use this stylish chequered rib for your next dishcloth or blanket pattern?
Chunky rib stitch
A simple variation on a classic: make the ribbed bands wider for a whole new look.
Corded rib stitch
For a firmer rib with a bit less stretch, choose this attractive corded design.
Double lace rib stitch
Switch it up with a touch of lace between the columns – all you need is k2togs and yarnovers.
Eyelet rib stitch
Eyelets take centre stage! The lace dominates in this pattern for an open, lightweight rib.
Fancy slip stitch rib
Slipped stitches in the columns add a subtle variation to a basic ribbing pattern.
Farmer’s rib stitch
Use a smooth, crisp and lustrous yarn to show off the definition of this beautiful rib.
Figure of eight rib stitch
No cables needed! These figure of eights are easy to work and pretty to look at.
Fisherman’s rib stitch
With its thick, squishy texture, this reversible rib is beloved for hats and sweaters.
Herringbone lace rib stitch
Light and lacy but structured: this rib is great for garments. Lace beginners will love it.
Knotted rib stitch
Increase and decrease to make the little knot shapes in this neat-as-a-pin rib.
Little cable rib stitch
Adding a basic left cross cable gives your ribbing a stylish and sophisticated twist.
Mock cable rib stitch version 1
Get the look of a cable rib without a cable needle with our mock cable stitch.
Mock cable rib stitch version 2
For smaller, daintier twists, try this alternative version of the mock cable rib.
Ric-rac rib stitch
Boasting the wiggly zig-zag line of ric-rac, this fun stitch is a great choice for accessories.
Sailor’s rib stitch
Swap a plain rib for a cabled one and give your knitting projects the wow factor.
Speckled rib stitch
An easy-peasy everyday pattern that’s a simple substitute for 2x3 rib. Give it a go!
Twill rib stitch
We love these smart diagonal stripes! They’d be perfect for jumper cuffs or hems.
Twin rib stitch
It's all about the vertical stripes in this one. Super memorable, it's ideal for beginners.
Twisted rib stitch version 1
A simple two-row repeat creates this eye-catching texture. It looks great with lace.
Twisted rib stitch version 2
A popular choice for sock and hat cuffs, this is a firm, stretchy and well-defined rib.
Skip straight to our other knitting stitches here:
Moss stitch knitting stitches
Knit one, purl one, knit one, purl one… Moss stitch is such a simple knitting stitch pattern, but it can also form the basis for lots of other, more elaborate, designs.
Below you'll find ideas for mixing it with cables, lace and more to create gorgeous textures you'll want to knit again and again.
Chequerboard
Keep careful track of your knits and purls as you work this attractive textured pattern.
Double moss stitch
Simple to create and easy to memorise, this is a classic. Use it in our moss stitch scarf.
Lace and moss stitch
Break up your moss stitch with bands of lace for a lighter, more elegant fabric.
Moss stitch rib version 1
Give the undulations of ribbing a textural twist by adding moss stitch in the troughs.
Moss stitch rib version 2
Keep it simple! Replace plain purls with moss stitch to create this handsome wide rib.
Moss stitch zigzag
If understated style is more your thing, look no further than these subtle moss stitch zig zags.
Raised moss stitch rib
Very similar to the moss stitch rib above, try both variations and see which one you prefer!
Speckled cables
Adding cables to the mix gives this fabric a range of visual and tactile textures.
Textured cubes
Use moss stitch to make a fun three-dimensional effect. Is anyone else thinking of Q*bert?
Browse our knitting stitch patterns using the links below:
Cable knitting stitches
Learn how to cross stitches over each other to create all sorts of twists, ropes and braids. We have chunky single cables, all-over patterns and edging ideas to inspire you.
And don't forget to check out our in-depth guide on how to cable knit for more tips and advice. Cable needles at the ready – let's go!
9 stitch plait
If you're new to knitting cables, this basic beginner plait is the perfect place to start.
Basket cable 1
Over, under, over, under… Create a traditional basketweave pattern using criss-cross cables.
Basket cable 2
Simple garter stripes are all it takes to give basic columns of cables a whole new look.
Basket cable 3
Choose a yarn with great stitch definition to get the most from this criss-cross pattern.
Cable rib
Make your cables pop! This ribbed pattern really stands out from the background.
Cables & eyelets
Add some lace eyelets into the mix for a pleasing blend of light and heavy textures.
Chains & links
These chunky horseshoe cables would be a fine centrepiece for any design…
Chevron tracks
…or make them mini as a background detail. We love how versatile they are!
Corded cable rib
These six-stitch cables create stand-out, symmetrical columns on a plain purl background.
Fans & feathers
Give Old Shale a new look with this cable twist on the classic feather and fan.
Honeycomb
Add honeycomb cables to your knits for a gorgeous squishy fabric that's great for winter.
Little cable rib
It might look complex but this cable rib is a doddle to create with knits, purls and left crosses!
Mini cables
Try an uneven cabling method to produce these orderly columns of small, stylish cables.
Mock cables
A subtle diagonal cable adds interest to basic ribbing. You'll want this one in your repertoire!
Ripple effect
Master working these twists without a cable needle and the pattern will fly off your needles!
Rolling waves
Reminding us of choppy seas, these sumptuous cables are ideal for hats and mittens.
Slanted double cable
Blend two cables together for a quirky asymmetrical design that makes a statement.
Soft cables
Waves of little cables wash over this soft, soothing pattern. It's beginner-friendly too.
Subtle curves
Use travelling vines of knit stitches to create the subtle cable curves of this design.
Trapeziums
Wouldn't this make a lovely blanket stitch? Pair it with a chunky yarn for a snuggly throw.
Twists & turns
Substitute plain rib with this cable version to zhuzh up your cuffs and hems.
Wavy cables
Give it a twist! Stagger your cables to create waves rather than horseshoes.
Woven cable
Add a rustic look with a beautiful braid. Why not make it the focal point of your next design?
Woven twists
These little twists would make a gorgeous background for a gansey sweater.
Want a different knitting stitch pattern category? Skip to it here:
Lace knitting stitches
The secret to lace knitting is – it's not as complicated as it looks! When you've mastered the basic decreases and the yo increase (see how to decrease in knitting and how to increase a stitch in knitting), you're ready to give it a try.
Take a look at our guide to lace knitting for all the basics, and scroll down for beautiful lace knitting stitch patterns to try.
Arrowhead
Every knitter needs an arrowhead lace pattern in their repertoire, so make it this one.
Branching lace
In this pattern, rows of eyelets extend from a central column like branches on a tree.
Chevrons & lace
Neat lines of scalloped shapes give this retro lace motif an Art Deco feel.
Crossed rib & lace
Cables and lace combine for a more challenging stitch that's lots of fun to knit.
Diamonds in moss
Give classic diamond lace some texture with the addition of moss stitch rows.
Diamond lattice
A neat pattern of diamonds works well in heavier yarns – try your favourite DK or aran.
Eyelet weave
Bring a lacy touch to a classic basketweave to make this pleasing, symmetrical pattern.
Falling eyelets
Use dedicated lace needles with sharp points to make these intricate stitches a breeze.
Feathery lace
For extra texture, add simple slipped stitches to regular columns of eyelets.
Horizontal eyelet
Master increases and decreases with this easy eyelet stitch. It's a great first lace pattern.
Lacy diamonds
For a lighter openwork look, this stitch pattern has more eyelets and smaller diamonds.
Lacy pillars
Keep track of your repeats with stitch markers when working mesh patterns like this one.
Leaf & weave
We're feeling inspired by this leafy stitch… wouldn't it make a fabulous shawl?
Leafy edging
Add interest to the edges of a garment or blanket with these little lace leaves.
Netting
Light, open netting stitches are a popular choice for summer vests and T-shirts.
Open flares
All beginner lace knitters should try the popular Shetland pattern 'feather and fan'.
Rising lines
Not always flowing and fluid, lace patterns can be angular and geometric too!
Seashells
Pretty scalloped shapes make this stitch perfect for sweet summer knits.
Slip stitch netting
Adding slipped stitches gives a simple netting pattern a more structured feel.
Soft lattice
Choose this lacy lattice stitch for warm-weather cardigans and cosy winter wraps.
Tiny triangles
Little triangles of lace stand out beautifully on a reverse stocking stitch background.
Waves
Try playing with elongated stitches to create this beautiful undulating pattern.
Zigs & zags
Uniform columns of eyelets travel up and down our easy-to-work zig zag design.
Zig zag
Intricate patterns like this look stunning in super-fine thread or lace weight yarn.
Jump to another part of our knitting stitch library:
Slip stitch knitting patterns
It doesn't matter how long you've been knitting, there's always something magical about slipped stitches! They're brilliant imitators of other knitting stitch patterns, creating effects that look just like cables, lace and stranded colourwork – and some that are all their own.
Scroll down for a versatile collection that will inspire you to pick up your needles…
Brick relief stitch
A slip stitch classic, our brickwork motif is a great introduction to the technique.
Checkerboard
Add texture and depth to your knits with a checkerboard of slipped stitches.
Colour basket
Master working with two colours and the vibrant world of mosaic knitting awaits!
Dancing flames
Swishy swashy, swishy swashy! These slipped stitches seem to dance across the fabric.
Gentle ripples
Try this dainty stitch in a lightweight yarn, then gently block it to open up the fabric.
Honeycomb
If you love cable honeycombs, we think you'll love this slip stitch version too.
Left diagonals
Do the twist! These striking diagonal ridges would look fabulous swirling around a hat.
Pebbled
Use this gorgeous pebbled stitch for snuggly all-over texture on your next sweater.
Pillars
Not all slip stitch fabrics are dense and opaque – this one is light and summery.
Slip stitch loop
Like so many slip stitch patterns, this one is much easier to work than it looks!
Slip stitch rib
Choose high-contrast colours to show off the parallel lines in this stitch pattern.
Slip stitch weave
Ready to try two-colour slip stitch? Give this memorable pattern a go.
Small quilted cross-stitch
Knit a squishy stitch like this one in a chunky yarn to make cosy scarves and accessories.
Tweed stitch
Improve your confidence at slipping stitches purlwise with this beginner-friendly pattern.
Two-tone tweed
Create a subtle tweedy fabric by choosing two yarns with very similar tones.
Valley stitch
Slipped stitches are excellent mimics too – here they look a lot like cables!
Woven moss stitch
Gorgeously tactile and visually beautiful, woven moss stitch is a brilliant all-rounder.
Brilliant brioche
Two-colour brioche stitch has taken the knitting world by storm! Master this on-trend technique with our guide.
Improve your skills with knitting stitches
Every one of these knitting stitch patterns will help you to create more beautiful, detailed projects. They'll add texture and dimension to your creations, helping them to stand out from the crowd.
Work these knitting stitch patterns into your projects and let the compliments roll in!
Find your next knitting project with Gathered
Test your new knitting stitch skills with one of our fun and free projects. Our knitting patterns collection has everything from blanket patterns to children's toys.
