The Stockinette Stitch or Stocking Stitch is one of the most recognizable and most versatile stitches in the knitter's repertoire. When most people think of knitting, they think of the Stockinette stitch. If you are a seasoned knitter, you've likely used this stitch many times. If you're new to knitting, it's a great stitch to learn after the Garter Stitch. To knit the Stockinette Stitch, you'll need to know how to cast on, how to knit, and how to purl.
How to Knit the Stockinette Stitch
Step 1: Start by using the Long Tail Cast On method and cast on 10 stitches. We are using Mary Maxim Best Value Yarn and Size 8 (5.00 mm) circular needles. You can use circular or straight needles; it's your preference. We find them easier to film using circulars.
Step 2 (Row 1): Knit the first row of stitches.
Step 3 (Row 2): Purl the second row of stitches.
Continue in this manner, alternating knit rows and purl rows (repeat Rows 1 and 2) until you have knit the desired length of fabric. You'll notice that when finished, you'll see a knit side of the fabric and a purl side of the fabric.
Why the Edges Curl
One of the characteristics of the Stockinette Stitch is that the ends of the fabric tend to "curl" unless you anchor the edge with a garter stitch. Some yarns show this tendency more than others — for instance, super bulky yarns tend to curl over fewer stitches than finer-weight yarns.
Some projects use the curl as an advantage or an added design element. There may be a purposeful curl in sock cuff edging, or it can be used to create curled scarves. If your edges will be sewn together for a sweater seam, the curl is only a minor nuisance when flattening it out to check measurements — it won't affect the overall look of the final project.
For flat projects like scarves and dishcloths, avoid the curl by adding a border of ribbing, garter stitch, or another non-curling pattern to the edges.
The Versatility of the Stockinette Stitch
It's impossible to know the complete history of the Stockinette Stitch. It's called the Stockinette Stitch because it's commonly seen knit in hosiery and socks for literally millennia — ancient Egyptian socks worn with sandals, estimated to be from the 4th or 5th centuries, show this same structure.
We prefer this stitch over others, particularly on the heels of socks. The Stockinette Stitch lies very flat and is absent of the lumps and bumps that would be uncomfortable to walk on if knit into the soles of your feet.
The Stockinette Stitch is very versatile. Many designers favor it because it's easy to customize the size of garments — adding increases and decreases while staying in the pattern is simple. It also knits up fast, making this stitch perfect for pieces that need to be reproduced quickly.
You'll also find the stockinette stitch commonly paired with the cable technique. The contrast of purls and cables knit against the stockinette stitch is an iconic design element of Aran knitting.
Stay Tuned
We have lots more knit stitches coming your way and will be starting our Crochet Beginner Stitches soon as well. If you've always wanted to learn how to knit or crochet, now is a great time to start. There is so much more to come, so make sure to subscribe and never miss a thing!
Happy Crafting!
