How to knit the Cushion Stitch: Easy Beginner Pattern + Video

The Cushion Stitch is a beautiful textured knitting pattern made with just knit and purl stitches. It’s beginner-friendly, doesn’t curl, and creates a lovely, cushioned texture that’s perfect for cozy projects.

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Although it has an 8-row repeat, it’s surprisingly easy to memorize: the even rows are all purl, and rows 1 and 3 are the same. Rows 5 and 7 are the same, too. Easy to remember, easy to knit!

And this one comes with a little story 😉

If you prefer to start knitting…

In the video tutorial below, I’ll show you how to work the Cushion stitch step by step:

Cushion Stitch Knitting Pattern: A Little Treasure From My Magic Box

Some of you already know about my magic box.

When I left Venezuela, I brought a box full of knitting stuff: books, old magazines, newspaper clippings, needles, and all sorts of treasures with me.

Every now and then, I open it and have a good rummage around. You never know what might turn up!

This time, I came across this stitch in one of my cousin’s granny’s old magazines. And as soon as I saw it, I started thinking about a Christmas present for my other half.

It’s been quite a while since I knitted something for him myself!

Many years ago, I made him a two-color brioche scarf, and I even shared the pattern and video tutorial here on So Woolly. Maybe it’s time for another handmade scarf, don’t you think?

So, this lovely Cushion Stitch might just be the perfect candidate. Let’s see how it turns out!That’s my kind of fancy.

Why You’ll Love the Cushion Stitch

Beginner-friendly: You only need knit and purl stitches.

Beautiful texture: It has a lovely, cushioned surface with a basket-weave-like look.

Lies flat: No curling edges to fight with.

Easy to memorise: It’s an 8-row repeat, but the repeated rows make it much easier than it sounds.

Great for cozy projects: It works beautifully for accessories, garments, and home decor.

One thing to keep in mind: this stitch isn’t reversible, so the two sides look different.

What Can You Knit With the Cushion Stitch?

This texture is perfect for projects where you want a little extra warmth and visual interest.

Try it for:

Scarves and cowls
Blankets and throws
Sweaters, cardigans, and vests
Hats and socks
Cushions and other home decor projects

And, of course, it could be just the thing for a handmade Christmas gift.

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👉 Click on this line if you want to download the printable pattern (PDF file)

Tips for Beginner-Friendly Knitting Patterns

Although the cushion stitch is easy, a couple of little reminders will help you get the best results.

Keep your tension even. This helps the texture look neat and consistent.

Remember the row pairs. Rows 1 and 3 are identical, as are rows 5 and 7.

Take advantage of the plain rows. Since every even-numbered row is purled, you only need to focus on the stitch pattern on the odd-numbered rows.

Materials

For this swatch I used:

US 7 (4.5 mm) wooden knitting needles (luxury, lightweight, smooth and durable) #ad

And 100% Cotton yarn (breathable, soft, great for sensitive skins) #ad

This is the other side of the work:

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Abbreviations

CO: cast on

st (s) = stitch (es)

RS: right side of the work

K: knit

P: purl

WS: wrong side

BO: Bind off