This is one of my absolute FAVORITE stitch patterns EVER. I just recently made a blanket using this pattern as a Christmas present for my boyfriend. One of the things I love about this stitch is how easy it is to see the differences between a knit stitch and a purl stitch. Both are used in sections that allow you to clearly see the differences between them.
First Step: Choose Your Dimensions
The easiest way to create this pattern is to cast on in groups of six. So, depending on your yarn weight and needle size, you will want to calculate how many stitches you will need to cast on to create your desired project width. When I made my blanket, I used a blanket yarn from Bernat that I had purchased from Michael’s Craft Store. This yarn has a weight of 10.5oz (300g), which is a much heavier yarn than most. I used the recommended needle size – this is almost always written on the yarn packaging – which was US size 11 (8mm). I wanted to make a very big blanket, so I casted on 36 stitches.
Second Step: Cast On
You’ll want to cast on normally, as you would any other project. Make sure to count your stitches as you cast on so you can get your desired project width and complete the stitch pattern effectively.
Third Step: Familiarize Yourself With the Pattern & Get Started
I have attached an image from Pinterest of the stitch pattern as a whole. It is my recommendation to use stitch markers (I will show & explain this more later on) to keep track of what row you are on. You will want to start by knitting the first row and purling the second row. Rows 3 & 5 require you to knit one, purl four and knit another. This is why we cast on in groups of six. Because my blanket entailed 36 stitches, I had to repeat this pattern six times in order to finish out my row. I will refrain from typing out the rest of the pattern, as it is pictured to the right. Just remember that K = knit and P = purl.
ADDITIONAL TIPS/TRICKS
- Use stitch markers! These can be found in any yarn section of a craft store. They are typically colored, to which it is recommended to assign each row its own color. Make sure to write this down in order to remember which color belongs in which row. These markers go at the end of the rows to remind you of where you left off.
- Have the pattern pulled up while you are working!
- Keep counting! This is the easiest way to remember what stitch you need to do next and it helps to show if/when you have accidentally dropped or picked up stitches along the way.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
https://www.allfreeknitting.com/Knitting-Collections/Basketweave-Knitting-Patterns
