Stitch dictionary
Knitting Stitch Dictionary: 20 Stitches Step by Step
Quick answer
Start with the beginner knitting stitches: 1x1 Rib, 2x2 Rib, Garter Stitch, Knit Front and Back. This dictionary covers 20 knitting stitches with step-by-step instructions, US and UK abbreviations where they exist, common mistakes and related stitches, sorted from easiest to most challenging.
| Stitch | US | UK | Difficulty | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1x1 Rib | k1, p1 rib | k1, p1 rib | Beginner | Cuffs, Hat brims, Necklines |
| 2x2 Rib | k2, p2 rib | k2, p2 rib | Beginner | Hat brims, Sweater hems, Mittens |
| Garter Stitch | garter st | garter st | Beginner | Scarves, Dishcloths, Baby blankets |
| Knit Front and Back | kfb | kfb (inc) | Beginner | Easy increases, Toe-up socks, Amigurumi-style shaping |
| Knit Stitch | k | k | Beginner | First lessons, Garter and stockinette fabrics, Every project |
| Knit Two Together | k2tog | k2tog | Beginner | Hat crowns, Shaping, Lace paired with yarn overs |
| Moss Stitch | moss st | double moss st | Beginner | Blankets, Textured sweaters, Borders |
| Purl Stitch | p | p | Beginner | Stockinette on flat pieces, Ribbing, Textured patterns |
| Reverse Stockinette Stitch | rev St st | rev st st | Beginner | Cable backgrounds, Textured panels, Rolled edges |
| Seed Stitch | seed st | moss st | Beginner | Borders, Washcloths, Cowls |
| Slip Stitch (Knit) | sl | sl | Beginner | Heel flaps, Neat selvage edges, Mosaic colorwork |
| Stockinette Stitch | St st | st st (stocking stitch) | Beginner | Sweaters, Hats, Socks |
| Yarn Over | yo | yo (older patterns: yfwd, yrn) | Beginner | Lace, Eyelet buttonholes, Decorative increases |
| 6-Stitch Cable | C6F / C6B | C6F / C6B | Intermediate | Aran sweaters, Hats, Blankets |
| Basketweave Stitch (Knit) | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Blankets, Dishcloths, Pillows |
| Linen Stitch (Knit) | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Color-changing yarns, Bags, Coasters |
| Make One Left | M1L | M1L | Intermediate | Sleeve and body shaping, Thumb gussets, Top-down yokes |
| Make One Right | M1R | M1R | Intermediate | Paired increases with M1L, Gussets, Shaping |
| Slip Slip Knit | ssk | ssk | Intermediate | Symmetrical shaping, Raglans, Sock toes |
| Brioche Stitch (One Color, Flat) | brk / sl1yo | brk / sl1yo | Experienced | Cowls, Hats, Scarves |
Researched from manufacturer specifications, owner manuals and verified owner reviews, not hands-on testing, and not professional advice. As an Amazon Associate, Cozy Stitchery earns from qualifying purchases.