Learn the Box stitch knitting pattern
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The Box stitch pattern is a textured knitting pattern, also known as double moss stitch.
It alternates knits and purls and is similar to the more common seed stitch in that way. But the box stitch alternates the stitches two stitches in a 2×2 pattern rather than the 1×1 pattern on the seed stitch.
The result is a checkered texture that’s great for dish cloths, pillows, scarves and blankets.
I used this stitch to knit some of the squares for a blanket I’m knitting, more about that in a later post!
But you can find all the knitting stitch patterns I have used for my squares and a few more here!
Is the box stitch a good beginner stitch pattern
It’s just as easy as the seed stitch to knit and a good beginner stitch, for when you have mastered the garter and stockinette stitches and want to try something a little bit more challenging!
Does the box stitch curl at the edges
No, the box stitch doesn’t curl at the sides or edges as it alternates knits and purls which makes the tension even between the right and the wrong side of the fabric.
Reading tip:
Prevent curling edges in stockinette. This post goes deep into why knit fabric curls and what to do about it.
The supplies needed
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To knit the box stitch pattern you will need:
- Yarn of your choice
- Knitting needles that suit the yarn
- Scissors
- Wool needle to weave in the ends
Knitting abbreviations
K – Knit stitch
P – Purl stitch
Need to learn some knitting abbreviations? I keep this list of 88 knitting abbreviations in my knitting journal. Of course, I made a printable pdf to share with my readers as well! You find it in this post
Box stitch knitting pattern for knitting flat
Cast on Multiples of four + two (+ edge stitches if you need them)
Row 1: K2, *P2, K2* repeat *–* across the row
Row 2: P2, *K2, P2* repeat *–* across the row
Row 3: P2, *K2, P2* repeat *–* across the row
Row 4: K2, *P2, K2* repeat *–* across the row
Repeat rows 1–4
Why do I add edge stitches
I always add two edges stitches if I’m making a seamed or visible edge kind of project. I guess that’s always when knitting flat!
I add one stitch at the start of the row and one at the end of the row. I slip the first stitch knitwise on every row and purl the last stitch on every row. This way I ensure all edges look nice and tidy, and are easy to seam.
Read more about neat edges here
Box stitch knitting pattern for knitting in the round
Cast on in multiples of 4 (Don’t add edge stitches when knitting in the round, as there are no edges)
Round 1: * K2, P2 * repeat *–* the whole round
Round 2: * K2, P2 * repeat *–* the whole round
Round 3: * P2, K2 * repeat *–* the whole round
Round 4: * P2, K2 * repeat *–* the whole round
Repeat rounds 1–4
Reading tips:
––> Circular needles tutorial including text and video!
––> Is your circular needle too long?
––> Knit and purl textured knitting stitch patterns
