Stockinette stitch is the most recognisable knitted fabric: smooth on one side, finely bumpy on the other. You get it by knitting one row and purling the next. It is the stitch behind almost every sweater and hat. In this video we work it step by step and look at what to do about edges that curl.
How to knit stockinette stitch, step by step
- Cast on. Any number of stitches works.
- Row 1 (right side): knit every stitch.
- Row 2 (wrong side): purl every stitch.
- Repeat those two rows. The smooth face is the right side of the garment.
- Knitting in the round? Then stockinette comes from knitting every round — no purling needed.
Common mistakes
- The edges curl. That is stockinette’s nature. Fix it with a few stitches of ribbing or garter stitch at the edges, or by blocking the finished piece.
- Looser purl rows. They show as uneven lines on the smooth face. Work your purls slightly tighter.
- Losing track of the row. Look at the work: if the side facing you is smooth, it is a knit row.
Frequently asked questions
Why does stockinette curl?
Because the two faces have different tensions. It is not a fault — patterns compensate with ribbed edges or with blocking.
What is reverse stockinette?
The same fabric used from the other side, the finely bumpy one. Some patterns call for it as a finish.
How much yarn does it use?
It is one of the most economical stitches — less than seed stitch or ribbing.
What we used in the video
BeMe yarn by The Woolcatcher and circular needles. Browse the full natural yarn collection.
