Stocking Stitch is usually one of the first stitches a new knitter learns. To create stockinette or stocking stitch (st st) you alternate between knit and purl stitches on different rows.
This means you are creating a fabric that is smooth on the front (right side) of your work and bumpy on the back (wrong side) of your work.
If you are working flat i.e. turning your work at the end of every row, this is created by working the knit stitch on the right side of your work and purl stitch on the wrong side of your work.
If you are working in the round, you will knit all the stitches because you are always working on the right side of your work.
How to Knit Stocking Stitch
Here is a step-by-step video on how to knit stocking stitch or scroll on for text instructions:
Step 1: Cast on
The first step is to cast on the number of stitches you need for your project. To cast on, make a slip knot and place it on one of your needles. Then, using the other needle, make a knit stitch through the slip knot. Repeat this process until you have the desired number of stitches on your needle.
Step 2: Knit the first row
Once you have cast on your stitches, it's time to start the first row. For the stocking stitch pattern, the first row is always a knit row. To knit a stitch, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, from left to right. Then, wrap the yarn around the right needle, from back to front, and pull it through the stitch. Slide the stitch off the left needle and onto the right needle. Repeat this process for all stitches on the row.
Step 3: Purl the second row
Now that you've completed the first row, it's time to start the second row. For the stocking stitch pattern, the second row is always a purl row. To purl a stitch, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, from right to left. Then, wrap the yarn around the right needle, from front to back, and pull it through the stitch. Slide the stitch off the left needle and onto the right needle. Repeat this process for all stitches on the row.
Step 4: Repeat
Continue alternating between knit and purl rows until you have completed the desired length for your project. Remember to start each row with either a knit or purl stitch, depending on which row you're on.
Tips for Knitting Stocking Stitch
- Keep your tension even to create a uniform fabric.
- Use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning of each row.
- If you make a mistake, you can unravel the stitches back to the mistake and fix it.
- Practice makes perfect, so keep practicing until you feel comfortable with the pattern.
FAQ's
Q: What is stocking stitch?
A: Stocking stitch is a simple knitting pattern that is created by alternating between knit and purl stitches on different rows.
Q: Is stocking stitch difficult to learn?
A: No, stocking stitch is an easy pattern to learn, especially for beginners.
Q; What can you make with stocking stitch?
A: Stocking stitch is a versatile pattern that can be used to make a variety of items, including scarves, hats, blankets, and sweaters.
Q: Can you use different colours with stocking stitch?
A; Yes, you can use different colours of yarn to create stripes or other patterns with the stocking stitch.
Q; What other knitting patterns should I learn after stocking stitch?
A; After learning stocking stitch, you can try learning other patterns like garter stitch or rib stitch to expand your knitting skills.
