This is how to knit the basketweave stitch
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The basketweave stitch is a tad more complicated than the seed and moss stitch with its 12 rows, but once you have knitted a few repetitions, it’s easy to remember.
Basketweave isn’t reversible, the right and wrong side looks different, but due to the use of knits and purls, this stitch lays flat and doesn’t curl. This characteristic makes basketweave a good choice for blankets, scarves, and dishcloths.
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
Basketweave stitch on straight needles
Cast on in multiples of 6 (+ edge stitches if you need them)
Row 1: Knit across the row
Row 2: Purl across the row
Row 3: * K1, P4, K1 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 4: * P1, K4, P1 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 5: * K1, P4, K1 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 6: * P1, K4, P1 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 7: Knit across the row
Row 8: Purl across the row
Row 9: * P2, K2, P2 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 10: * K2, P2, K2 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 11: * P2, K2, P2 *, repeat *–* across the row
Row 12: * K2, P2, K2 *, repeat *–* across the row
Repeat rows 1–12
Why I add edge stitches when I cast on a project on straight needles
I always cast on two extra stitches, edge stitches, when I cast on for a project knitted flat (back and forth).
These extra stitches are knitted as the first and the last stitch of the row. The first is slipped knitwise, all stitches besides the last one are knit in pattern and the last stitch is always purled. This creates a pretty chain along the fabric edge that makes any project look a little more finished. It’s also perfect for seaming or picking up stitches!
Read more about this technique and get some more tips for neat edges here!
Basketweave stitch on circular needles
Cast on in multiples of 6
Round 1&2: Knit the whole round
Round 3–6: * K1, P4, K1 *, repeat *–* to end of row
Round 7&8: Knit the whole round
Round 9–12: * P2, K2, P2 *, repeat *–* to end of row
Repeat rounds 1–12
Reading tips:
––> The knit and purl stitch library
––> Knitting backwards allows you to knit stockinette without purling!
––> How to plan a knitting project
