Squishy, warm and easy to knit, garter stitch is the simplest of all knit stitches, and probably the first stitch you learnt. It has no “right” side or “wrong” side, making it totally reversible. It also lays flat. Its edges won’t curl the way stockinette stitch fabric curls. Garter stitch is made up of alternating knit and purl rows and produces a very stretchy fabric that looks both friendly and dramatic – cool combination, right? The chunkier the yarn you use, the more sculptural the fabric. For an example, check out the Cushy Cowl, knit entirely in garter stitch in the round!
To knit garter stitch on two needles:
Row 1: knit all stitches
Repeat Row 1
To knit garter stitch on circular needles:
Row 1: knit all stitches
Row 2: purl all stitches
Repeat these two rows
Knit Tip: if you’re unsure whether to knit or purl, remember this: knit your purl stitches and purl your knit stitches.
Terri says
Can I knit cushy cowl on straight
Needles?