The Herringbone Stitch
The herringbone stitch is a beautiful and versatile knitting stitch that creates a zigzag texture and a thicker, warmer fabric. It is unique and beautiful, and once you get the rhythm of how the stitches are worked, you’ll agree that it’s definitely worth learning.
The herringbone stitch can be used to make a variety of projects, from blankets and scarves to sweaters and hats. I recommend trying it out with something small and maybe not as important before you invest your best yarn! Consider making a scarf to donate to a local cold weather shelter.
In this blog post, I’m going to talk about two different ways of knitting herringbone: soft and squishy, and structured and sleek. I’ll also give you some tips on how to choose the right method for your project.
Both versions have some fiddly aspects, so take your time and be sure to watch the videos to get my additional tips for making it knit up smoothly for you.
Soft and Squishy Herringbone Stitch:
The soft and squishy herringbone stitch is perfect for blankets, scarves, and other projects that you want to be cozy and warm. This method is achieved by slipping a stitch, knitting one stitch, wrapping the yarn around the needle, and then passing the slipped stitch over. This creates a looser, squishier fabric that is perfect for cold weather projects.
To knit the soft and squishy herringbone stitch:
- Cast on an even number of stitches.
- Row 1: Knit 1, *slip 1, knit 1, wrap yarn around needle, pass slipped stitch over. Repeat from * to end of row. Knit the last stitch.
- Row 2: Purl 2 together but do not move off needle, purl the first st, and move both stitches off to the right needle. Work across the row.
- Repeat rows 2-3 until you reach your desired length.
Be sure to watch this video to see how to knit the soft and squishy herringbone stitch.
Structured Herringbone Stitch:
The structured herringbone stitch is perfect for projects that you want to be more durable and have a structured, classic look. This method is achieved by knitting two stitches together, but with a special move that doesn’t reduce the number of stitches. This creates a tighter fabric that is perfect for projects that will get a lot of wear and tear, or for garments that will help keep the wind at bay!
To knit the structured herringbone stitch:
- Cast on an even number of stitches.
- Row 1: Knit 2 together, but only let one of the stitches on the left needle off. Repeat this process across. (Again, watch the video! This is far more simple than it sounds in writing!)
- Row 2: Work the purl stitches in a similar manner: purl 2 together, but only allow the first stitch to work off the needle.
- Repeat rows 2-3 until you reach your desired length.
Be sure to watch this video to see how to knit the smooth and structured herringbone stitch.
Tips for Choosing the Right Method:
The best way to decide which method is right for you or your project is to be sure to watch both of the videos, try them both to see how the fabric works up with your yarn, and if you’ve got the correct size needles to get the effect you are hoping for.
PLAYLIST HERE
It’s especially important to consider how the yarn and needles you’ll be using are going to work together. This is where knitting samples is going to help you see and feel if you are getting the desired look and feel you have in mind for the finished project.
Once you have chosen your yarn, use my comments and observations in the videos to help you choose your needles.
Cast on and knit a few rows, changing needles every few rows until you are getting a fabric you like, and a tension that is working up nicely for your hands.
The herringbone stitch is a beautiful and versatile knitting stitch that can be used to make a variety of projects. I hope this blog post has helped take some of the mystery out and encouraged you that you really can learn how to knit the herringbone stitch in these two different ways.
So grab some yarn and needles and let’s get started!
Share your project when you are done!
I’d love to see what you create using the herringbone stitch. Share a photo of your project with me by filling out this form on the Brag Board and your success might get featured in a blog post and on social media.
Have fun knitting this beautiful stitch, and make beautiful things!
Love SuziQ