Shaker stitch knitting pattern (Half Fisherman’s Rib)

Easier than the classic Fisherman’s Rib stitch, the Shaker stitch (aka Half Fisherman’s Rib) is ideal for beginners.

You can explore more designs like this in the Textured Stitch Patterns collection.

It’s a simple two-row repeat pattern, and there is only one step to memorize; the odd rows are just knit rows.

This version is a delicate pattern, less spongy than the original one, and it doesn’t curl either.

The Shaker stitch, reversible and unisex, is perfect for knitting women’s and men’s scarves, cowls, sweaters, blankets, but also baby garments.

Let’s get started!

CO: Cast on

RS: Right side of the work

st: Stitch

K: Knit

K1bo: Knit one stitch from the row below (insert the needle in the stitch form the previous row and knit).

P1bo: Purl one stitch from the round below (insert the needle from back to front into the stitch from the previous round and purl).

P: Purl

BO: Bind off

How to knit the Shaker Stitch (Back and Forth)

CO an even number of stitches.

1º row: K across

2º row (RS): *P1, K1bo*. Repeat from * to *, to the end.

These two rows form the pattern. Repeat them until the desired length is reached.

When finished, BO knitwise, after a row 2.

This is the other side of the work:

Enjoy the video tutorial:

After publishing this pattern, I’ve been asked many times for instructions to do it in the round. So, there you go:

CO an even number of stitches.

1º and every odd round: K across

2º and every even round: *K1, P1bo*. Repeat from * to *, to end

These two rounds create the pattern. Repeat them until the desired length is reached.

When finished, BO working each st as it presents, after round 1 (in the video, I’ll show you what to do).

Click here for the video tutorial:

Hugs, and happy knitting!

Carolina

PS: Looking for more textured designs that create depth without complexity? Explore the full Textured Stitch Patterns collection here.