A Basketweave Stitch Knit With a Twist

If you like the texture of the classic basketweave stitch but prefer something a little lighter — this version is for you.

It has everything we love from the classic woven texture while creating an airy, delicate fabric.

At first glance, it looks familiar: just squares of knits and purls, easy to memorize.

But a few rows later, something unexpected happens: an eyelet row slips in, and suddenly your work opens up a bit, breathing and catching the light.

You’ll agree with me that even the most classic stitches still have secrets left to share 😉

What Kind of Projects is this Stitch For?

Because it’s a balanced mix of softness and structure, this basketweave stitch pattern works beautifully for cowls (snug or infinite), scarves, and blankets.

When knitting a blanket, think of adding a robust border in Seed or Moss Stitch, for example.

However, I’ve seen it on sweaters and vests too… It looks fantastic (it’s simple yet elegant).

Use it for the whole garment, or consider it for the sleeves, or just for the back, to add a surprising touch.

Does the Basketweave Stitch Curl?

I have tried it using both, Merino wool and cotton yarn, and they didn’t curl.

Even though there are some rows of eyelets between the woven texture, I think that the solid knits and purls combination prevents the fabric from curling.

Anyway, as I always suggest to you, knit a swatch first (keep in mind that the yarn and needle size we use, plus our own tension affect the result).

Yarn and Needles I used

I made this swatch using 100% Merino Superwash wool yarn (super soft, non-fuzzy, and elastic), worsted weight, medium, or number 4 #ad

And US 8 (5 mm) needle size.

Nowadays I prefer bamboo or wooden needles, but when I was starting I used metal needles, and for some knitters, they’re their favorite.

Take a look at this beautiful set, if you’re looking for them (smooth and pointy, perfect for eyelet/lace patterns) #ad

“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

Is it Reversible?

Although both sides are different, they’re very pretty, so to me, the basketweave stitch falls into the reversible knitting patterns category!

But it’s a matter of taste. Up to you 😉

How to Knit this Unique Basketweave Stitch

Quick Notes Before Starting

It’s a 12-row repeat pattern.
The odd rows form the right side of the work.
On rows 2, 3, 4, 8, 9 and 10 work each stitch as it presents.
For neat edges, slip the first stitch as if to purl and knit the last on every row.

Abbreviations

CO: Cast on

St: stitch

Sts: stitches

wyif: with yarn in front (keep the yarn at the front of the work)

sl1pw: slip one stitch purlwise (pass one stitch as if to purl onto the right-hand needle)

sl1kw: slip one stitch knitwise (pass one stitch as if to knit onto the right-hand needle)

yo: yarn over

k2tog: knit two stitches together

K: knit

P: purl

psso: pass the slipped stitch over the last one

BO: Bind off

Instructions

CO multiples of 8 + 3 + 2; i.e.: 8 * 3 = 24 + 3 = 27 + 2 (edge) = 29 sts.

Rows 1 & 3: wyif sl1pw, K1, *K2, P5, K1*. Repeat to last 3 sts, K3

Rows 2 & 4: wyif sl1pw, P2, *P1, K5, P2*. Repeat to last 2 sts, P1, K1

Row 5: wyif sl1pw, K1, *K1, sl1kw, K1, psso, yo, K3, yo, k2tog*. Repeat to last 3 sts, K3

Row 6 & 12: P across

Rows 7 & 9: wyif sl1pw, P1, *P3, K3, P2*. Repeat to last 3 sts, P2, K1

Rows 8 & 10: wyif sl1pw, K2, *K2, P3, K3*. Repeat to last 2 sts, K2

Row 11: wyif sl1pw, K1, *K2, yo, k2tog, K1, sl1kw, K1, psso, yo, K1*. Repeat to last 3 sts, K3

How to Bind Off

These 12 rows create the pattern. Repeat them until the desired length is reached.

When finished, for symmetry BO purlwise after row 4 (RS).

This is the other side of the work:

Some Tips for Better Results

Use sharp tip needles (they’re your best friends when decreasing stitches).
Avoid fuzzy yarns (Mohair, Angora); solid yarns (Merino wool, cotton, linen, silk, or its blends) will give more definition to the pattern.
Block your work once it’s finished (blocking makes the pattern stand out, it’s like going from sleepy to sharp stitches instantly!)

If you are a beginner:

Count your stitches after finishing rows/rounds 5 and 11 (you should have the same number that you cast on).
Never leave your work before finishing a pattern repeat
Write down the last row/round you worked.