The Tartan Weave Stitch uses Knit & Purl to create a textured fabric with a tartan effect reminiscent of traditional Scottish tartan patterns.
The mock tartan texture is very striking and is an easy alternative to the stockinette stitch, the pattern being super simple to knock out very quickly. The effect is created by alternating three rows of a 3×3 rib stitch with three rows of Stockinette Stitch.
What would the Tartan Weave Stitch be good for? It is a versatile stitch and can be used for many projects such as scarves, blankets, sweaters, bags and home decor. The woven appearance adds depth and complexity that adds visual appeal and warmth to your garments.
Ready to get started? Let us move on to the instructions!
Instructions
Cast on any multiple of six stitches for your project.
Starting out on the wrong side, the first three rows consists of the same six stitch repeat of knitting three, then purling three. Keep repeating this until the end of the row and then repeat the same pattern for rows two and three.
The fourth and sixth row very simply involve purling all stitches and the fifth row, knitting all stitches.
Once you have completed row six, continue repeating rows 1-6 until you have the desired size.
Difficulty level:
Cast on:
Cast on any multiple of 6 stitches.
6 row pattern repeat.
Techniques Used in this Stitch:
k
p
Traditional Instructions
- Rows 1 (WS), 2 & 3: *k3, p3; repeat from * till the end of the row.
- Rows 4 & 6: k all stitches.
- Rows 5: p all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-6 to desired length.
Tartan Weave Stitch Chart
Tartan Weave Stitch Swatch Examples
Tried out this stitch and want to explore some more? Check out other Knit & Purl stitches or our full Knitting Stitches library for more information!
Additionally, check out our collection of information on different yarn types and what will work best for your next project with the Tartan Weave Stitch!
