Knit a Diagonal Lace Stitch (Great For Blankets & Scarves) + Video

Meet the Diagonal Lace Stitch — a light, elegant pattern built entirely from knit stitches, k2tog and yarn overs.

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The same three steps, shifting across the rows to create a beautiful diagonal movement through the fabric.

I tell you, there’s something quietly satisfying about a stitch that does all its magic with just three simple steps…

You can explore more designs like this in the Easy Lace Stitches Collection.

It’s particularly lovely for blankets, where the open, airy texture adds lightness without losing warmth. Works beautifully for scarves too!

One thing to keep in mind: this stitch curls, so it does need a border — but once that’s sorted, the result is absolutely worth it. 🧶

And yes… There’s a step-by-step video so you can follow along easily.

Grab your needles and your yarn and let’s get busy!

👉 Never Lose Your Place While Knitting – Free Printable PDF Row & Stitch Tracker

Honestly? This Stitch Almost Scared Me.

I have a confession to make.

When I first read the instructions for this stitch, my immediate reaction was: “ufff… this looks complicated. My Woollies are going to think this isn’t for them.”

You know that feeling — you see the abbreviations, the row-by-row instructions, maybe a chart, and something in your brain goes: too much. And sometimes we just… don’t even try.

That was me with this one.

But then I sat down with my needles and my yarn and I gave it a go anyway.

And after finishing the very first repeat, I just sat there thinking: How is this so easy?

Because it really is. Three simple steps — k4, k2tog, yo — repeated in a shifting sequence that creates something that looks far more complex than it actually is.

That’s my favourite kind of stitch. And I think it might become one of yours too 😊

About this Diagonal Lace Stitch

• Cast on: Multiples of 6 + 2 sts

• Skill level: Easy Intermediate

• Rows: 12-row repeat

• Reversible: No

• Yarn: For this swatch I used 100% Merino Superwash Wool, Worsted Weight (soft, structured and non fuzzy) #ad

• Needles: US 8 / 5mm (bamboo needles are my favourite, they’re smooth, hold the yarn beautifully, perfect for any skill level. This set this set comes with the most used sizes and a case) #ad

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Abbreviations

How to Knit This Diagonal Lace Stitch Step by Step

Pattern Notes

• This stitch loves smooth yarns — the eyelets will thank you! 😊
• Blocking helps open up the eyelets and define the diagonal lines, but won’t fully control the curl — don’t skip the border!
• The odd rows form the right side of the work
  

Stitch Multiple

CO multiples of 6 + 2 (edge/selvedge sts). For example: 6 * 3 = 18 + 2 = 20 sts.

Knit and Purl Stitch Pattern Instructions

Row 1 (RS): K1 (edge), *K4, k2tog, yo*. Repeat from * to *, to last st, K1 (edge)

Row 2 and every even row (WS): P across

Row 3: K1 (edge), K3, *k2tog, yo, K4*. Repeat from * to *, to last 4 sts, k2tog, yo, K1, K1 (edge)

Row 5: K1 (edge), K2, *k2tog, yo, K4*. Repeat from * to *, to last 5 sts, k2tog, yo, K2, K1 (edge)

Row 7: K1 (edge), K1, *k2tog, yo, K4*. Repeat from * to *, to last 6 sts, k2tog, yo, K3, K1 (edge)

Row 9: K1 (edge), K1, *k2tog, yo, K4*. Repeat from * to *, to last 6 sts, k2tog, yo, K3, K1 (edge)

Row 11: K1 (edge), K5, *k2tog, yo, K4*. Repeat from * to *, to last 2 sts, K1, K1 (edge).

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

When finished, BO purlwise after row 11 (WS).

👉 Never Lose Your Place While Knitting – Free Printable PDF Row & Stitch Tracker

Video Tutorial

Where to Use This Knit and Purl Stitch Pattern

Blankets — the ideal project for this stitch. The diagonal movement gives large pieces a dynamic, interesting texture without overwhelming the eye. Remember to add your border before casting on!

Scarves — lightweight and elegant, especially in wool or cotton yarn. A garter stitch border on each side keeps the edges perfectly flat.

Shawls — the open texture drapes beautifully in fingering or DK weight yarn.

Not sure how many stitches to cast on for your project? Check out my [guide to calculating stitches, yarn and measurements for any rectangular project] — it takes the guesswork out completely!

👉 About the Border (This is Important!)

This stitch curls at the edges, and blocking alone won’t be enough to keep it flat — even with a beautiful wool like Merino, the sides will still bend a little after blocking.

The good news? A simple border fixes everything. Here are two easy options:

Option 1 — Garter Stitch Border (easiest) Knit the first and last 4-5 stitches of every row, and work 4-6 rows of garter stitch at the beginning and end of your project. Clean, simple, effective.

Option 2 — Seed Stitch Border For a slightly more decorative edge that complements the lace texture beautifully. Work 4-5 stitches in seed stitch at each side and a few rows at top and bottom.

Looking for knitting stitches that don’t need a border at all? Check out my printable guide to [15 Knitting Stitches That Don’t Curl] — all beautifully flat, no border required!

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A big hug, and happy knitting,

Carolina – So Woolly 

PS: if you enjoy this kind of texture, check this pattern next time(you’ll love it)!