Garter Stitch
Garter stitch is made by knitting every stitch in every row, producing a thick, ridged fabric that lies flat without curling at the edges.
Explanation
Garter stitch is one of the simplest knitting patterns, achieved by knitting every stitch in every row when knitting flat. The result is a distinct, horizontal ridged texture that looks the same on both sides of the fabric. Because garter stitch doesn't curl at the edges the way stockinette does, it is often used for borders, shawls, and entire garments where a thick, elastic, textured surface is desired. Knitting garter stitch in the round requires alternating knit and purl rounds to achieve the same effect.
Also known as: Garter
Simple and flat
Garter stitch is made by knitting every row when working flat. Worked in the round you have to alternate a knit round and a purl round to produce the same fabric.
The result is horizontal ridges where each ridge equals two rows. That makes counting easy: count the ridges and double the number.
Properties
Garter lies completely flat without curling, is thicker and more insulating than stockinette, and stretches more widthwise than lengthwise. It also uses more yarn per inch.
That makes it the default for scarves, blankets, dishcloths and any border that has to lie flat.
A good place to start
Garter stitch needs only the knit stitch, lies flat without a border and hides uneven tension well, which makes it the usual first project fabric.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting that knitting in the round needs alternating rounds to produce garter.
- Underestimating the yarn consumption.
Keywords
- garter stitch
- garter
- ridge pattern
Frequently asked questions
How many rows is one ridge?
Two. That is why you count ridges and double the number to find the row count.
Why does garter stitch not curl?
Because the front and back alternate evenly, so the tension balances. It is the same reason stockinette does curl.