The Andalusian Stitch takes the humble Stockinette Stitch and with just a little tweak of the Knit & Purl creates a subtle, yet beautiful texture. It is very much based on the stockinette pattern, but with every third row of what would typically be knit stitches replaced by a row of ribbing.
This deft change helps break up the uniformness of the plain old stockinette stitch and creates a subtle grid-like texture to the fabric. Additionally, a great thing about this pattern is that it is still so simple! After a few four-row repeats you will find yourself on autopilot with the garment almost knitting itself.
The Andalusian Stitch is best used for projects that benefit from a combination of stretch, texture, and visual interest. Some good examples of where to use this stitch include scarves, hats, cowls, sweaters, blankets and pillow covers.
Let’s head to the instructions!
Instructions for the Andalusian Stitch
- Cast on multiples of two stitches for your project.
- The first row is entirely made up of knit stitches.
- Every stitch in the second row should be purled .
- Row 3 consists entirely of a two-stitch pattern of knit one, purl one, repeated until you reach the end of the row.
- The fourth, and final row in the repeat consists again, entirely of purl stitches..
- Once you have completed row four, continue repeating rows one till four until you have the desired size. We told you that it was pretty straightforward!
Difficulty level:
Cast on:
Cast on in multiples of 2 stitches.
4 row pattern repeat.
Techniques Used in this Stitch:
k
p
Traditional Instructions
- Row 1: k all stitches.
- Row 2: p all stitches.
- Row 3: *k1, p1; repeat from * till the end of the row.
- Row 4: p all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-4 to desired length.
Andalusian Stitch Swatch Examples
