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Seed stitch is a classic stitch used for knitting scarves, blankets, edgings, and sweaters.
It’s reversible which makes it perfect for any type of project where you need both sides to look great!
How to knit seed stitch
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The supplies needed
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To knit this pattern you will need:
- Yarn of your choice
- Knitting needles that suit the yarn
- Scissors
- Wool needle to weave in the ends
Reading tips:
––> If you need more information on how to match yarn and needles, this post is for you!
––> And if you want to learn more about knitting supplies for beginners, read this one!
Knitting abbreviations
K – Knit stitch
P – Purl stitch
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How to knit seed stitch
- Cast on an even number of stitches
- Row 1: * K1, p1 * rep from * – * to the end of the row
- Row 2: * P1, k1 * rep from * – * to the end of the row
- Rep Rows 1 and 2 until the desired length.
What does seed stitch look like
As you can see in the photo above the pattern has small bumps all over that looks like little seeds.
The alternating of purl and knit stitches make up a textured pattern where the small bumps (seeds) are created by the purl stitches. The seed stitch looks exactly the same on both sides.
Is this stitch suitable for beginners?
Seed stitch is a great stitch pattern for beginners because it’s easy, just alternating knit stitch and purl stitch. Once you manage your knits and purls you’re ready for the seed stitch.
How do you cast on for knitting seed stitch?
When you’re about to start a seed stitch project you cast on an even number of stitches with your preferred cast-on method.
Does this stitch curl?
No seed stitch does not curl as stockinette stitch does. The reason for this is that you alternate knit and purl stitches which evens out the tension in the fabric.
If you want to know more about why some knitted fabrics curl you should definitely read this post!
Does seed stitch take more yarn than stockinette stitch
Yes, it does. All knitting patterns that have a bit of structure and are a bit thicker need more yarn than the thin and flat stockinette stitch. Lace patterns take less yarn as they are lighter and have a lot of holes in them.
Seed vs. moss stitch
The difference between seed and moss stitch is small but has an impact on the look of the fabrics created.
Both are built up by alternating knit and purl stitches but the seed stitch only has two alternating rows. On row one, you start with a knit stitch and on row two you start with a purl row. This creates a fabric of alternating one knit and one purl both on rows and in stitch columns.
Moss stitch on the other hand is built up by four repeating rows.
Two rows starting with a knit stitch followed by two rows started by a purl stitch. This creates a pattern that’s alternating one knit and one purl on the rows but alternating two knits and two purls in the columns.
Take a look in the knit and purl knitting stitch library to get access to more textured stitch patterns!