Knitting patterns for variegated yarns (Part 1): Star stitch - So Woolly

I’m happy today, I’m starting a new series of tutorials: Knitting stitch patterns for variegated yarns. Not much of my collection uses multi colored yarns, but I just discovered an interesting brand, and I love this cotton yarn…

So I decided to research and swatch, experimenting with what kind of stitches work best with these cool variegated fibers.

I was drawn to this subject as there is a lot of other stuff out there that fails to capture the true potential of this beautiful yarn.

Why? Because we need to choose the right stitch pattern while working with the fabulous color mixtures. Otherwise, two things can happen: Either the stitch pattern is lost on the colors, or the color work is mixed up with the stitch. So there is no definition color-wise or stitch-wise.

The obvious solution for knitting with variegated yarns is the Stockinette stitch. You’ll always be safe with that choice… but as knitters we like to make changes, and in order to triumph, we have to practice (like almost all things). “Practice makes perfect”.

Therefore it’s so important to knit a gauge swatch at least 4 x 4 in (10 x 10 cm), using the yarn, the stitches, and needle that you’ll use for the project itself. I will not tire of repeating it. Swatching isn’t important only because of the dimensions (which are vital), but also because of the appearance.

So, I’m sharing with you the knitting patterns that I found most exciting for working with variegated yarns, starting today with the Star stitch.

Easy to knit, the Star stitch has a lovely texture to it, it’s a four-row repeat pattern (two of them being knit across), and although it’s not reversible, it’s a great stitch for knitting a scarf or a shawl, but also will work in a cowl, even a blanket or a sweater.

The Star stitch is another diagonal pattern, so it shares the same DNA of the Edelweiss stitch we practiced sometime ago.

After knitting several gauge swatches, it doesn’t curl, but because your tension and the fiber you use also count, maybe it’s better to knit a nice edge on each side of the scarf, shawl or blanket.

¡Let’s get started!