How to Knit the Flight of the Bumblebee: Simple Trick, Stunning 3D Texture
The Flight of the Bumblebee is a 3D knit stitch that looks like a swarm of tiny bees — but is actually surprisingly simple to create.
That’s the magic of it; ideal for knitters of all levels who love easy textured stitch patterns that look impressive but are relaxing to knit.
Introduction
Why is this Knitting Pattern So Special?
Because it’s so simple! With just one move, this pattern transforms plain knit and purl rows into a stunning, embossed texture.
And the best part? Most of the rows are plain knit or purl rows, so even if you’re a beginner or intimidated by textured stitches, you can tackle this with confidence.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to knit the Flight of the Bumblebee stitch, including the simple trick that makes the bees pop.
You’ll also get tips on yarn choice and needle size, so your final fabric is crisp, defined, and ready for gifting or snuggling.
What Kind of Projects is it best for?
Whether you’re making a cozy scarf, a charming blanket, or a cute baby hat, this stitch adds that wow factor without any complicated techniques.
Moreover, this is also a nice pattern for kid’s sweaters and cardigans.
Does it Curl?
The Flight of the Bumblebee stitch doesn’t curl much, but the sides look irregular, or tend to bend.
Therefore, if you’re knitting a scarf, blanket, cowl, or any other garment that should stay flat, think of adding a nice edge on each side of the piece.
Is The Flight of The Bumblebee A Reversible Pattern?
Although both sides are totally different, they look really pretty! So I’d say it’s a reversible pattern.
This is the “wrong side” of the work (it reminds me to the Puffy Stitch):
Materials & Preparation
Yarn and Needle Suggestions for This Stitch
I made this swatch with 100% Merino Superwash wool yarn #ad
It’s fuzz-free, structured (it gives your stitches an amazing definition), warm, and as a soft as a rose petal.
I love it for baby garments, cowls, hats, scarves (anything that touches your skin).
If you’re a beginner, I’d say that wool (or its blends) will be your best friend for this pattern (it’s a very forgiving fiber).
It’ll help you to get a better tension and keep an even fabric.
However, if you are more experienced, then cotton yarn is also an option: it’s more rigid, but if you can control the tension, you’ll get lovely crispy stitches!).
(For this pattern, I wouldn’t like Mohair or Angora, for example).
Using one of my favorite wooden needles (smooth and pointy, ideal for this kind of patterns and of course, lace knitting).
These short tip interchangeable needles are the best option for knitting small “tubes” (socks, hats, sleeves) in the round, so you don’t need to work the Magic Loop #ad
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The Flight of the Bumblebee Stitch: Step-by-Step Instructions
Understanding the Stitch Pattern (8 Rows Overview)
The Flight of the Bumblebee stitch is an eight-row repeat pattern, and most of them are super easy:
- Rows 1 and 5 are purl rows
- Rows 2, 4, 6 and 8 are knit rows
- The magic happens in rows 3 and 7!
The Simple Trick: Knit 1 Stitch From 2 Rows Below
As you’ll see below in the abbreviations section, in rows 3 and 7, we have to knit into the next stitch 2 rows below (not from the previous rows as many other patterns call for).
This simple move creates the embossed bees throughout the fabric; and it’s easy to see: we’ll insert the needle just below the second “umbrella” (bump or knot) from the top down (watch the video tutorial ⬇️).
Abbreviations
CO: Cast on
RS: Right side of the work
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)
P: Purl
K: knit
k1 2bo: Knit one stitch inserting the needle into the stitch from 2 rows below
BO: Bind off
WS: Wrong side of the work
How to Knit the Flight of the Bumblebee Stitch
CO multiples of 4 + 3 + 2. For example: 4 * 4 = 16 + 3 = 19 + 2 (edge/selvedge) = 21 sts.
- Rows 1 and 5 (RS): wyif sl1pw (edge), P to last st, K1 (edge)
- Rows 2, 4, 6 and 8: K across
- Row 3: wyif sl1pw (edge), P3, *k1 2bo, P3*. Repeat from * to *, to last st, K1 (edge)
- Row 7: wyif sl1pw (edge), P1, *k1 2bo, P3*. Repeat from * to *, to last 3 sts, k1 bo2, P1, K1 (edge)
These eight rows create the pattern. Repeat them until the desired length is reached.
When finished, BO knitwise after row 7 (WS).
Watch the Step-By-Step Video Tutorial: The Flight of the Bumblebee Stitch
More 3D Knitting Patterns That You’ll Love:
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Hugs, and happy knitting,
xoxo
Carolina – So Woolly
