How to knit a diagonal square (aka a corner to corner square)
Knitting a diagonal square (from corner to corner) is a basic knitting technique that’s good to know. It’s a favorite technique of mine and I often use it for dishcloths (I only use my handknit dishcloths from recycled cotton) but also for knitting blanket squares and for baby blankets.
In this post, I will give you a simple pattern or description for a square. If you are an experienced knitter this is super easy!
If you need a little more help, the pattern will be followed by a video tutorial showing you the steps you need to manage to pull this off!
After that, I will go over what types of projects this technique would be useful in and how you can make small alterations to change the look of the squares or rectangles you are producing. Let’s dive in!
How to knit a diagonal square
This square is knit in garter stitch, but of course, you could use another stitch pattern if you like! I give you some tips for altering your square further down, as well as a link to my stitch pattern page.
Cast on 5 stitches. You can use your favorite cast on method, I use the long tail cast on as I find it quick and easy to do.
Row 1: knit all stitches.
Row 2 (this is your increase row): slip 1 knitwise, K1, yarn over, knit to the end of row.
Repeat row 2 until your sides are the length you need your square to be. As long as you keep increasing on all rows your work will be shaped like a triangle. When you start decreasing you will knit the other triangle needed to form the final square.
Row 3: Slip 1 stitch knitwise, knit 2 stitches together, yarn over, knit 2 stitches together, knit until end of the row. Work row three until you have five stitches left on the needle, bind off, and weave in your ends.
Need more help? Watch the video!
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How to alter a square knitted on the diagonal
- Try using different types of increases
- Try different types of decreases
- Try another stitch pattern. Knit your square in stockinette stitch or an easy knit and purl stitch pattern
- Maybe it would look nice with a neat edging?
- Try some different types of yarn. Thin cotton, linen, or bamboo yarn makes a good washcloth. A thin wool yarn makes a delicate and beautiful but very time-consuming blanket while thicker wool is a faster knit and makes a warm and cuddly blanket.
