How to knit a stitch pattern for edges (with knit and purl

In this post, I’m sharing how to knit a super easy knit and purl stitch pattern, perfect for edges (borders), because, as you already know, there are many stitch patterns that bend and curl…

And when I publish those kinds of patterns, I normally suggest to add a nice edge on each side of the garment, if you want to knit a blanket, scarf, cowl, etc.

However, the first things that come to mind when thinking of an edge, are the Garter stitch, the Seed stitch, or the Irish Moss stitch.

Well, these are not the only ones!

Today’s knit and purl stitch can be added to your list.

Why?

There are two determining factors to consider a pattern for an edge or border:

Firstly, it needs to stay flat, no matter what!

This aspect normally comes from the frequent combination of knit and purl stitches in a row.

Additionally, it’s better if it’s reversible. This makes the edges look like a frame of the project.

And today’s stitch pattern meets both criteria.

Nevertheless, you can also use it as a main pattern, to knit any sort of projects, such as: hats, socks, mittens, baby stuff, scarves, sweaters, among others.

So, grab your needles, and some yarn, and let’s get started!

Abbreviations

CO: Cast on

st: Stitch

RS: Right side

K: Knit

P: Purl

WS: Wrong side

BO: Bind off

How to knit a knit and purl reversible stitch for edges. So Woolly.

N.B.:

The odd rows form the right side of the work.

The edge (selvage) stitches (the first and the last) will be knitted on every row.

How to knit a Knit and Purl stitch pattern for edges

CO multiples of 4 + 2 (edge/selvage) stitches; i.e.: 4 * 4 = 16 + 2 = 18 st.

Rows 1 and 2 (RS): K1 (edge), *P3, K1*. Repeat from * to *, to last st, K1

Rows 3 and 4: K1 (edge), P1, *K1, P3*.Repeat from * to *, to last 4 st, ending with K1, P2, K1 (edge).

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

When finished, BO working each stitch as it presents, after row 3 (WS).

This is the other side of the work:

How to knit a knit and purl stitch for edges that doesn't curl. So Woolly.

Enjoy the video tutorial: