Purse Stitch for Beginner Knitters

This is a beautiful lace stitch that’s created by a yarn over and a decrease. It’s just a one row repeat!

This stitch lays flat and is reversible. Like most lace stitches, it has some stretch to it.

Purse Stitch would look great knit into a breezy tote bag or a wide scarf or a shawl. I can also imagine it knit into a blanket with chunky yarn!

This swatch is knit using Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK in the color 424 Mustard Yellow. This is an affordable cotton yarn that’s great for washcloths, rugs, coasters, sun hats and more! This yarn also comes in tons of colors!

To explore more stitches for beginners, check out the 10 Best Beginner Stitches series.

Purse Stitch:

Cast on an even number of sts

Row 1: P1 *YO, P2tog; repeat from * to last st, P1

Repeat Row 1 for Purse Stitch flat

Purse Stitch in the Round:

Note: The last stitch for Round 2 is a yarn over and that the first stitch for Round 1 is also a yarn over. When moving from Round 2 to Round 1 ensure that both yarn overs are worked.

Cast on an even number of sts

Round 1: *YO, P2tog; repeat from * to last stitch

Round 2: *K2tog, YO; repeat from * to last stitch

Repeat Rounds 1-2 for Purse Stitch in the Round

Abbreviations:
* *: Repeat instructions between the asterisks the number of time indicated
K: knit
K2tog: Knit two stitches together
P: purl
P2tog: Purl two stitches together
St(s): Stitches
YO: yarn over