Knit and Purl Stitches

The Knit and Purl category as the name suggests is a range of different stitches created from two most basic knitting techniques (Knit and Purl).

Knowing how to knit and purl gives a solid foundation knit literally hundreds of patterns through various combinations of the stitches! It is also the essential starting point to build on – as mastery of any skill requires a solid understanding of the basics. In fact, the majority of the more advanced techniques in knitting are generated through progressively more complex variations of these two basic techniques.

That is not to say that there cannot be beauty in the simplicity of the humble knit & purl, as evidenced by the collection of knit and purl stitches we have gathered below. These range from basic knitting stitches for beginners such as the Garter Stitch or Stockinette Stitch, to more advanced variations such as the Fur Stitch.

If you are just starting out in the world of knitting then we hope these stitches can give you some inspiration or if you are old hand who is looking for a something straightforward for their next project then please browse our collection below.

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Knit and Purl Stitch Collection

1. Box Stitch

Similar to the Trinity or Moss Stitch, the Box Stitch creates a raised diagonal texture. Read more.


2. Purl Ridge Stitch

Take the stockinette stitch and purl every nth row instead of knitting it, and you’ve got the Purl Ridge Stitch.


3. Trinity Stitch

The Trinity Stitch (or Bramble Stitch in the UK) gives a raised blackberry type texture.


4. Flag Stitch

flag stitch sample swatch

The Flag Stitch creates a repeating pattern of diagonally split flags.


5. Moss Stitch

The Moss Stitch is a close relative to the Seed Stitch, giving a pretty dimpled texture.


6. Berry Stitch

sample swatch of berry stitch

The Berry Stitch gives a raised “berry” like texture to any knitting project.


7. 1×1 Rib Stitch

1x1 rib stitch

The 1×1 Rib Stitch is a very straightforward, reversible rib stitch.


8. Basketweave Stitch (4×4)

No surprise as to how the basketweave stitch got its name, as it resembles the texture of a wicker basket weave.


9. Stockinette Stitch

Stockinette Stitch

Simple and straightforward stitch using alternating rows of knit and purl stitches.


10. Seed Stitch

Seed stitch

The seed stitch is a very easy Knit and Purl stitch that gives a beautiful raised dimple effect, almost like scattered seeds.


11. Lotus Stitch

The Lotus Stitch can be quite tricky, especially for beginner but generates a beautiful textured flower pattern.


12. Left Diagonal Stitch

Left Diagonal Slip Stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the Left Diagonal Slip Stitch"

The Left Diagonal Stitch gives a change of pace to the old knit and purl with this lovely cascading domino effect.


13. Berry in a Box Stitch

Berry in a Box Stitch example & Title for "How to Knit the Berry in a Box Stitch"

The Berry in a Box Stitch combines Knit & Purl increases to produce a beautiful layered, textured effect.


14. Brioche Stitch

Brioche stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the Brioche Stitch"

Beautiful dense and reversible ribbing style that is also very simple to knit!


15. Garter Stitch

Garter stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the Garter Stitch"

The garter stitch is the first step into the world of knitting, as it is the easiest stitch pattern used in knitting projects.


16. Broken Rib Stitch

Broken Rib Stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the Broken Rib Stitch"

The simple knit and purl can give rise to some wonderfully textured patterns such as the Broken Rib Stitch.


17. 2×2 Garter Rib Stitch

2x2 Garter Rib Stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the 2x2 Garter Rib Stitch"

Variation on the 2×2 Rib with alternating rows of p2k2 and purl stitches.


18. Diamond Moss Stitch

Diamond Moss Stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the Diamond Moss Stitch"

The Diamond Moss stitch is a brilliant choice for giving some life to larger projects such as blankets or throws.


19. 2×2 Rib Stitch

2x2 Stitch example & Title Slide for "How to Knit the 2x2 Rib Stitch"

The 2×2 Rib Stitch is a hardy looking, reversible rib stitch.


20. Tartan Weave Stitch

Mixture of 3×3 ribbing with stockinette stitch is used to generate this mock tartan effect.


21. Andalusian Stitch

knit swatch sample andalusian stitch

A very simple variation on the stockinette stitch produces the subtle, and beautiful Andalusian Stitch.

22. Chevron Moss (Seed) Stitch

The Chevron Moss (Seed) Stitch is a variation of the Moss or Seed stitch by including a chevron or zigzag design. It offers the great texture of the moss stitch and adds the visual interest of the chevron shaping resulting in a very unique stitch!

We are continuously adding new stitches to the collection, so be sure to check back in again! Want to request a specific stitch or have one you would love to share? Please reach out to us on Instagram or Facebook, we would love to hear from you!

Tried all of the above? Then why not check out the full stitch dictionary?