The Stocking Stitch Knitting Stitch Pattern

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Two of the basic knitting stitch patterns are actually opposite sides of the same pattern.  The reverse stocking stitch knitting pattern is actually just the reverse side of the stocking stitch knitting stitch pattern and both consist of alternating between knit rows and purl rows.  

You can use this stitch pattern alone for the entire item, or it can be used as a panel between (or around) other more decorative stitch patterns (lace stitch patterns or cables for example) or as a component of a stitch pattern (like garter stitch blocks or intarsia).

Stocking Stitch | © Deborah Mason & Knitting Naturally

Reverse Stocking Stitch | © Deborah Mason & Knitting Naturally

To use stocking stitch you will need to know how to cast on, cast off and how to form knit stitches and how to form purl stitches.  You could get someone else to do the casting on and off for you if you are just starting out, but believe me, eventually you will want to learn how to do these two steps yourself if you are going to keep knitting.

Instructions for Stocking Stitch Knitting Stitch Pattern

1st row (right side) : Knit all stitches

2nd row (wrong side) : Purl all stitches

Repeat this row until your work is the length desired. 

Instructions for Reverse Stocking Stitch Knitting Stitch Pattern

1st row (right side) : Purl all stitches

2nd row (wrong side) : Knit all stitches

Repeat this row until your work is the length desired. 

Some Project Suggestions in Stocking Stitch

When you are learning, practice is the only thing that is going to help you improve so one of the most common projects for new knitters is knitting blanket squares.  Each square only takes a small amount of wool and it doesn't take too long to complete each square so you are not going to become overwhelmed by how much more you need to do.

By making squares you will get the practice you need and nothing is wasted as you can join the squares together to make a small blanket or knee rug.  Some knitters I know make a blanket square using the left over wool from each project they complete, as a way of celebrating their knitting successes or for remembering each project.

Simple Dropped Shoulder Childrens Sweater

Simple Childs Sweater | © Deborah Mason & Knitting Naturally

Round Neck Raglan Sweater in 8 Ply

Simple Childs Raglan Sweater | © Deborah Mason & Knitting Naturally

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