7 Essential Knitting Stitches Beginners Should Learn First

There are hundreds of types of knitting stitches found in various patterns. Beginner knitters may feel overwhelmed wondering where to start. There is no need to worry- it isn't necessary to learn hundreds of knitting stitches. 

We recommend starting by taking your time and learning these seven easy knitting stitches first. These are the most common and will allow you knit a variety of patterns. As you become more experienced, you can move beyond these seven.

1. Garter Stitch 

The garter stitch is one of the most common and most basic knit stitches. Garter stitching is simply knit stitching every row. The end result is simple and elegant. Garments that call for garter stitch have the following benefits:

• They are reversible.
• They are stretchy.
• They lay flat.

If you ever knitted a pot holder as a child, you likely used the garter stitch. Scarves, shawls, afghans, and lots of other patterns call for this simple stitch.

2. Seed Stitch

True to its name, the seed stitch creates small bumps that resemble seeds. The stitch is created by alternating knit stitches and purl stitches both within and between rows. This stitch is also reversible and creates a durable garment. The seed stitch is commonly used as edging for blankets since it lays flat. 

3. Stockinette Stitch

If you knit one row and then purl one row, you are creating a stockinette stitch knitting pattern. Many baby blankets are composed of stockinette stitch with a garter or seed stitch border. The stockinette stitch is appreciated for its classic look and feel. Projects made with the stockinette stitch will curl up, so it is best to add a border using a stitch that remains flat. Hats, gloves, blankets, and socks often call for the stockinette stitch and it is a great knit stitch to learn when getting started.

4. Sand Stitch 

The sand stitch is a two row repeat knit stitch pattern with a simple combination of knits and purls. The sand stitch looks like neat little rows of bumps and feels great to the touch. It is commonly used to knit blankets, scarves, pillows, and shawls. It is not reversible, so keep that in mind before you start your project.

5. Beaded Rib Stitch

If you love vintage knitting patterns, you will come across the beaded rib stitch. The beaded rib stitch is a pattern of ribbing rows broken up by little seed stitches. The end result lays flat and has a dramatic texture. Scarves and blankets are commonly made with this stitch.

6. Chevron Seed Stitch

The chevron seed stitch creates a lovely chevron graphic pattern. it is a 4 row repeat knit stitch pattern with raised purl stitches in a chevron, zip zag pattern. Create a scarf , blanket, or sweater dress with this pattern with fabulous results. 

7. Waffle Stitch

If knitting home decor and fashion projects is your passion, this knitting stitch is for you! The series of knits and purls creates a symmetric pattern that resembles a waffle. Although the pattern doesn't look the same on both sides, it is still reversible. Infinity scarves and cardigan sweaters commonly use the waffle stitch.

For beginner knitting kits that use a variety of these knitting stitches, visit here.