Basketweave Stitch (Knit): How to Do It Step by Step
Basketweave Stitch (Knit) is a intermediate-level knitting stitch that makes alternating blocks of knit and purl like a woven basket; reversible texture. Stitchers use it for blankets, dishcloths, pillows. To start, cast on a multiple of eight and work k4, p4 blocks for six rows. It is usually learned alongside 2x2 rib.
Basketweave Stitch (Knit) is a intermediate-level knitting stitch that makes alternating blocks of knit and purl like a woven basket; reversible texture. Makers use it for blankets, dishcloths, pillows.
The table below sums up basketweave stitch (knit) in one place: craft, abbreviation, difficulty and the projects it suits best.
| Craft | Knitting |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Look and feel | Alternating blocks of knit and purl like a woven basket; reversible texture |
| Best for | Blankets, Dishcloths, Pillows |
How do you work basketweave stitch (knit)?
- Cast on a multiple of 8 stitches (4-stitch blocks).
- Rows 1 to 6: *k4, p4* on right-side rows; on wrong-side rows knit the knits and purl the purls.
- Rows 7 to 12: *p4, k4* on right-side rows; again knit the knits and purl the purls on wrong-side rows.
- Repeat rows 1 to 12. Adjust block size and row count so blocks look square at your gauge.
Basketweave Stitch (Knit) is one of the stitches covered in how to measure knitting gauge. When you are ready to plan a project in it, the cast-on calculator will get a cast-on number that is a multiple of eight.
What are the most common basketweave stitch (knit) mistakes?
- Switching blocks after the wrong number of rows
- Losing track of right and wrong sides
- Forgetting a border, so edges look ragged
Practice on a swatch
Work a small sample before starting a project. It shows how the stitch looks in your chosen yarn or thread, and it is far easier to unpick a swatch than a finished piece.
Which stitches are related to basketweave stitch (knit)?
The 2 stitches below are the closest relatives of basketweave stitch (knit), with the abbreviation and difficulty of each.
| Stitch | Abbreviation | Difficulty | Look and feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2x2 Rib | k2, p2 rib | Beginner | Stretchy with bold columns; slightly less pull-in than 1x1 |
| Moss Stitch | moss st | Beginner | Checked pebble texture in two-row blocks, reversible, flat |
What other intermediate knitting stitches should you learn?
- 6-Stitch Cable: aran sweaters, hats
- Linen Stitch (Knit): color-changing yarns, bags
- Slip Slip Knit: symmetrical shaping, raglans
- Make One Left: sleeve and body shaping, thumb gussets
- Make One Right: paired increases with m1l, gussets
Tools for knitting
Clover Universal Knitting Counter
Under $25A simple row counter so you never lose your place in a stitch pattern.
Check price
KnitIQ Blocking Mats, 9 piece set with T-pins
Under $100Blocking evens out stitches and opens up texture patterns; interlocking mats make it easy.
Check price
ChiaoGoo Twist Red Lace Interchangeable Set, Complete, 5 inch tips
Under $250A complete interchangeable set covers every needle size a pattern calls for.
Check pricePrices change often, so confirm on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What is basketweave stitch (knit)?
Basketweave Stitch (Knit) is a knitting stitch that makes alternating blocks of knit and purl like a woven basket; reversible texture. Makers reach for it for blankets, dishcloths, pillows. It is rated intermediate here, so it helps to be comfortable with the basic stitches first and to practice on a swatch before a project.
How do you do basketweave stitch (knit) step by step?
1. Cast on a multiple of 8 stitches (4-stitch blocks). 2. Rows 1 to 6: *k4, p4* on right-side rows; on wrong-side rows knit the knits and purl the purls. 3. Rows 7 to 12: *p4, k4* on right-side rows; again knit the knits and purl the purls on wrong-side rows. 4. Repeat rows 1 to 12. Adjust block size and row count so blocks look square at your gauge. Work slowly for the first few repeats, keep your tension even, and check the result against the steps before continuing across a whole row or motif.
What projects use basketweave stitch (knit)?
Basketweave Stitch (Knit) suits blankets, dishcloths, pillows. To size a project before you start, the cast-on calculator will get a cast-on number that is a multiple of eight, and how to measure knitting gauge walks through a full project from the beginning.
What are common mistakes with basketweave stitch (knit)?
The most common problems are: switching blocks after the wrong number of rows; losing track of right and wrong sides; forgetting a border, so edges look ragged. Most are easy to spot if you pause after a few repeats and compare your work with the steps. Good light helps a great deal, especially with dark yarn or thread.
What stitches are similar to basketweave stitch (knit)?
Stitches closely related to basketweave stitch (knit) include 2x2 Rib, Moss Stitch. Learning them together makes patterns easier to read, because many designs switch between related stitches to change texture, height or line. Each has its own step-by-step page in the stitch dictionary.
How we research: we compare manufacturer specifications, owner manuals, published standards and recurring themes in verified owner reviews. We do not test products in person, and this is researched guidance, not professional advice. Follow your machine manual and pattern, and take care with rotary cutters, hot irons and needles. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
