Knit the Easiest Zigzag Stitch + Your New 3D Texture

This zigzag stitch creates a bold, 3D effect using nothing more than knit and purl stitches. 

Therefore, if you love super textured stitch patterns that look impressive but require minimal effort, you’re going to adore this one 😍 

It’s fully reversible, super easy to memorize, and perfect for scarves (worked vertically) or snug cowls and infinity loops (worked horizontally).

The best part?

Although it’s an 8-row repeat, the rows that you need to memorize are rows 1 and 5. The rest is simply knitting the knits and purling the purls. It practically knits itself 😉

Let’s get those needles moving!

Top Reasons to Try the Zigzag Stitch

Yarn and Needles I Used

I made this swatch using 100% wool (worsted weight, very forgiving, great for beginners) #ad

With one of my favorite dark bamboo needles -US 8 (5 mm). This set comes with the most used sizes and a beautiful case #ad

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Abbreviations

CO: cast on

st: stitch – sts: stitches

RS: right side of the work

K: knit

P: purl

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

BO: Bind off

WS: Wrong side of the work

Pattern Notes for the Zigzag Stitch

The even rows form the right side of the work.

Slip the first stitch as if to purl and knit the last stitch on every row.

Zigzag Stitch: Multiple of Stitches Needed

CO multiples of 10 + 2 (edge(selvedge sts). For example: 10 * 3 = 30 + 2 = 32 sts.

How to Knit the Zigzag Stitch (Step-by-Step)

Row-by-Row Zigzag Stitch Instructions

Rows 1, 2, 3 and 4: wyif sl1pw, *K5, P5*. Repeat from * to *, to last st, K1 (edge)

Rows 5 and 7 (WS): wyif sl1pw, *K1, P5, K4*. Repeat from * to *, to last st, K1 (edge)

Rows 6 and 8 (RS): wyif sl1pw, *P4, K5, P1*. Repeat from * to *, to last st, K1 (edge)

These 8 rows create the pattern. Repeat them until the desired length is reached.

When finished, BO after row 7 (WS), working each st as it presents.

Video Tutorial: Zigzag Stitch in Action

https://youtu.be/1cxU9s_PR8o

Tips for a Perfect Zigzag Stitch Texture

Use Smooth Yarn for Sharp Definition

Yarns with good stitch definition show the 3D lines best.

Avoid Heavy Blocking

Over-blocking can flatten the 3D hills.

Add Borders for Structure

If knitting a blanket, consider 4 – 6 stitches at each edge (and use a nice reversible stitch pattern; seed, bumpy, Irish Moss patterns are all good options.

How to Use the Zigzag Stitch in Projects

Vertical Zigzag Stitch Projects

• Scarves
• Panels for garments
• Infinite cowls

Horizontal Zigzag Stitch Projects

• Snug cowls knitted flat
• Tabel runners
• Cushions

Other Creative Uses

• Baby blankets
• Texture panels
• Accent borders

Zigzag Stitch FAQs

Is this zigzag stitch reversible?

Yes! Both sides look great.

This is the other side of the work:

Does it curl?

No — the texture naturally prevents curling.

Good for beginners?

Absolutely. Only knits and purls.

Other Zigzag Stitch Patterns You’ll Love

If you enjoy bold, textured patterns like this zigzag stitch, try these other beautiful variations:

Woven ZigZag Stitch – Another stunning zigzag pattern that blows minds with its texture (great for garments and accessories).

Reversible ZigZag Stitch – A fully reversible zigzag pattern that’s perfect for scarves, blankets, and cowls.

Zig-Zag Lace #2 Stitch Pattern – A lovely lace zigzag with an eight-row repeat and graceful texture.

Thank you for reading and watching, and remember, sharing is caring!

Hugs, and happy zigzaging ✨

Carolina – So Woolly

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