Lace knitting is a beautiful and intricate art form. It’s a great way to use up your favorite leftover yarns and introduce a little bit of extra fun into your project. The best part is that lace knitting patterns are fairly simple, once you get the hang of them!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Understanding the basic techniques of lace knitting is essential to create intricate lace patterns. |
| Using lace-weight yarn and smaller needles can help you achieve more delicate and intricate patterns. |
| Different types of lace patterns, such as Shetland, Estonian, and Irish Crochet, can be used to create unique designs. |
| When blocking your lace knitting project, take care to not stretch it too much, as this can distort the pattern. |
| Experimenting with different yarn fibers and colors can create new looks and textures in your lace knitting projects. |
This guide will help you learn how to knit each type of stitch without much trouble at all.
1. Knit the Yarn-Over Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
The first lace pattern we’ll cover is the yarn-over lace pattern, which is worked in stockinette stitch. This stitch can be done on any size needles or crochet hook.
The only difference between knitting and crochet is that you’re working with a different edge; this means you have fewer stitches per inch than if you were working in garter-stitch or seed stitch.
For our purposes, let’s say that your gauge is 5 stitches per inch (stitches are measured horizontally):
- Yarn over (yo) once to make a loop on your needle.
- Knit one stitch into this loop, then pass the slipped stitch over (psso). You now have two loops on your needle instead of one!
Learning how to crochet is a great way to express your creativity and make beautiful items. If you’re a beginner, be sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to Crochet for Beginners for all the basics you need to get started
2. Knit the Full-Fashioned Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
The full-fashioned lace pattern is knit in stockinette stitch on the right side of the fabric, and reverse stockinette stitch (also called wrong side stocking) on the wrong side.
Stockinette Stitch
To work this stitch pattern, cast on an odd number of stitches using double-point needles or long circular needle. Work as follows:
Row 1 (RS): *K1, sl1 wyif; repeat from * to last st before marker; k1; replace marker by knitting into front and back of it (C3F) or purling into front and back of it (C3P).
Row 2: Purl all stitches including those between markers C3F/C3P.
Repeat Rows 1-2 until desired length is achieved.
Knitting the Full-Fashioned Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
| Row | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Knit |
| 2 | Purl |
| 3 | Knit 2 together, yo, knit 2 (repeat until last 2 stitches), knit last 2 stitches |
| 4 | Purl |
| 5 | Knit 1, yo, ssk, k1, k2tog, yo, k1 (repeat from * to * until end of row) |
| 6 | Purl |
| 7 | Knit 2, yo, ssk, k1, k2tog, yo, k1 (repeat from * to * until last 2 stitches), knit last 2 stitches |
| 8 | Purl |
| 9 | K2tog, yo, knit until 2 stitches remaining, yo, ssk (repeat from * to * until end of row) |
| 10 | Purl |
| 11 | Knit |
| 12 | Purl |
This table provides a simple list of instructions for knitting the Full-Fashioned Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch, including the action to take in each row.
3. Knit the Yarn-Over and Purl Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
This pattern is an easy variation of the standard yarn-over pattern. It’s great for creating delicate lace patterns that wouldn’t be possible using only single or double yarn overs. This technique can be used in projects like scarves and shawls, or even warm winter hats!
4. Knit the Yarn-Over, Purl, and K2tog Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
This pattern is a variation on the knit stitch, where you knit a stitch and then yarn-over. To do this, simply slip the first stitch of your row as if to purl, bring the yarn forward between your hands (to the front of your knitting), and place it on top of your right needle.
With that same needle in front of your working yarn (the one closest to you), slip one more time, then repeat from
until there are three stitches on your right needle again. Then proceed with normal knitting for three rows or however many rows are specified by the pattern instructions.
To make sure that you have enough stitches for this pattern when starting out with stockinette stitch: Knit all knits!
When starting out with garter stitch: Knit all knits! In other words, don’t drop any stitches at all during these rows or add extra ones if needed until after doing 3 sets (three rounds) of K2togs/Purls/YO’s…
Now let’s begin our lace pattern! First we’ll start out with two columns full of simple KNITs; these will form our vertical bars (which look like wide zigzags). Next comes another two columns full of plain purls; these will form our horizontal bars (which look like thin zigzags).
Finally comes our third column where we create vertical bars by knitting into each stitch twice–once normally and once through its back loop–and then dropping them off as follows:
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5. Knit the Chevron Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
The first pattern to try is one that uses the same yarn as you are using for your garment, but requires a needle one size larger than what the ball band recommends.
The extra space on the needle allows for easier passage of stitches and adds stability to your work. This will help prevent unwanted holes and keeps your knitting from feeling too loose or tight.
The chevron lace pattern is worked over an even number of stitches (typically 41–51), so if you want to follow along with me, I used 44 stitches when I started this project.
I began by casting on my 44 stitches onto four double-pointed needles (DPNs). Then I knit 1 round in purl (or ribbing) stitch with a short row heel turn; this makes it easier to take off at least half of your knitting later on when blocking since there is no need for measuring anything out beforehand!
Next came Round 2: Knit all stitches until you reach last 2 sts., k2tog; repeat across entire round until 1 st remains before final decrease; ssk & turn.
6. Knit the Chevron Lace Pattern in Reverse Stockingette Stitch
This pattern is a little more complicated, but it’s not too bad once you get the hang of it. It’s basically a chevron pattern with some added purls and yarn overs.
The trickiest part will be holding on to all those yarn overs, so try to make sure that you’re always working from one end of the piece of lace knitting to the other before moving on to another stitch or section.
Here are step-by-step instructions:
- Cast on an even number of stitches (keep in mind that this pattern is best done in fine fibers like silk or kid mohair).
- *K1, yo* across until last stitch; k1 (this will create 1 extra stitch at each end).
- Purl 1 row on next round, then knit 1 row (with no increases). Repeat from Step 2 until desired length is achieved.
- ) Make sure you start every row with p1k1yo by purling one stitch before knitting the rest and increasing by knitting into the first stitch after casting on stitches (not including any edge stitches).
Are you interested in creating beautiful and unique lace items through crochet? Our guide on The Art of Broomstick Lace Crochet provides you with all the techniques and tips you need for this specific form of crochet
7. Knit the Zigzag Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
Zigzag Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
To work this stitch, cast on a multiple of 4 stitches and work over a multiple of 8 rows.
Row 1 (RS): k1, *yo, ssk; repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2.
Row 2: p2tog tbl, p2tog tbl, yo; repeat from * to last st before the marker, end p1 after the marker—you’ll have 3 sts on right-hand needle.
Place marker at beginning of row if desired. Work Rows 1–4 repeatedly until piece measures desired length or until you run out of yarn; remove markers if used during shaping process; BO as if to purl when your last stitch has been worked in pattern as written above.
This pattern can be easily modified by increasing or decreasing the number of stitches worked at each end (or both) by knitting into ea xtra stitch then moving it up/down one column for every two extra stitches per repeat (this will increase/decrease both sides simultaneously).
8. Knit the Diamond and V Lattice Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
The Diamond and V Lattice pattern is a variation of the basketweave pattern. It’s made up of alternating diamonds and Vs that are worked in stockinette stitch.
To work this lace pattern, you will need to use two colors at once—one for the knit rows and one for the purl rows.
The number of stitches required depends on how many colors you’re using and what size knitting needles you’re knitting with (larger needles = fewer stitches).
There are two ways that you can cast on your stitches: 1) casting on purlwise or 2) casting on knitwise.
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9. Knit the Basketweave Lace Pattern in Stockinette Stitch
The basketweave lace pattern is a beautiful and easy lace stitch. The rows are knit back and forth in stockinette stitch, with the changes to the stitch pattern occurring on every other row. As you work through this tutorial, you will see how easily it can be adapted for use in any of these three techniques:
Stockinette Stitch
This technique creates an even fabric with no purling involved. It’s great for beginners who want to learn how to knit lace patterns without having to purl at all!
Reverse Stockinette Stitch
Reverse stockingette stitches create a ribbed look on each side of your fabric by alternating between k2tog decreases and ssk increases every other row (1st row – k2tog decreases; 2nd row – ssk increases).
This technique is commonly used in patterns that call for ribbing because it produces an identical effect as knitting all rows with reverse stockingette sts except that there’s no need for purling!
Garter Stitch
Finally, garter stitch is also an option if you want something more interesting than just plain old stockinette stitches! Garter stitch creates ridges across your work which makes its texture distinct from both reverse stockingette stitches and straight-up stockinettes.”
10. Create a Column of Raised Eyelets in Stockinette Stitch
This is a pattern for creating a column of raised eyelets in stockinette stitch. The pattern looks like this:
- k1, yo, k2tog, yo, ssk; repeat from * to end of row
You will be increasing the number of stitches by one every other stitch, and then decreasing the number of stitches by two every other stitch.
You may also think about this pattern as an increase/decrease version of the K1 P1 Ribbing Pattern (see below).
You could also cast on using your favorite cast-on method and work through all these rows without increasing or decreasing at all—the result would be plain stockinette with small holes that look like eyelets in between them.
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11. Create a Column of Raised Eyelets in Garter Stitch
When working with lace, you can create a column of eyelets by casting on extra stitches at the beginning and then binding off in the middle.
For example, to create a 6-stitch column of eyelets, cast on 12 stitches. Knit two rows of garter stitch (no purling). Then bind off 8 stitches at even intervals across the row to form your columns of eyelet holes.
You’ll want to keep an eye out for these as they appear quite frequently in lace patterns that are worked flat or in rounds. If you’re new to knitting, it might seem like something confusing but once you get used to it, this technique will be easy!
| Row | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Knit |
| 2 | Purl |
| 3 | Knit |
| 4 | Purl |
| 5 | *Knit 2 together (k2tog), yarn over (yo), repeat from * to end of row |
| 6 | Knit |
| 7 | Purl |
| 8 | Knit |
| 9 | Purl |
| 10 | *Yarn over (yo), slip-slip-knit (ssk), repeat from * to end of row |
| 11 | Knit |
| 12 | Purl |
12. Create a Column of Raised Eyelets on a Seeded Ribbing Background in Stockinette Stitch
You may have noticed that the shaping of a garment is not always evenly distributed across your knitted piece.
For example, if you are knitting a square shawl with garter stitch edging, it is common to work more increases at the beginning and then fewer increases as you near the center of your square.
The result is an elongated shape that curves inward toward its center point. If you would like to create this effect in your lace knitting project (for example, if you want to make a scarf with an eyelet border), it is possible by using a column of raised eyelets on one side of your work while continuing with standard decreases on the other side.
There are two ways that this can be done:
- Create a Column of Raised Eyelets on a Seeded Ribbing Background in Stockinette Stitch
- Create a Column of Raised Eyelets on Reverse Stockingette in Reverse Stockinette Stitch
Conclusion
Once you get the hang of knitting lace, you’ll never want to stop. With all of its complexity and beauty, this form of knitting can be so rewarding.
It’s also a great way to learn about lace patterns and techniques that will help you become an expert knitter in no time!
Further Reading
Beginner’s Guide to Knitting Lace Patterns: This blog post provides beginners with step-by-step instructions on how to knit lace patterns.
A Guide to Learning to Knit Lace: Here, the author provides some tips and tricks for learning to knit lace patterns, including reading charts and fixing mistakes.
Lace Knitting – Wikipedia: This Wikipedia article provides an overview of lace knitting history, techniques, and patterns.
FAQs
What is lace knitting?
Lace knitting involves creating a fabric that has small holes or lace-like patterns. This is often done by increasing and decreasing stitches to create a pattern that is repeated across rows.
What is the difference between lace knitting and regular knitting?
The main difference between lace knitting and regular knitting is that lace knitting involves creating holes or spaces in the fabric, whereas regular knitting is generally denser and doesn’t have holes.
Is lace knitting difficult to learn?
Lace knitting can be difficult for beginners because it involves more intricate patterns and techniques. However, with practice and patience, anyone can learn to knit lace.
What are some common lace knitting stitches?
Common lace knitting stitches include yarn overs, decreases, and increases. By using these stitches in various combinations, you can create intricate lace patterns.
What can I make with lace knitting?
There are countless items you can make with lace knitting, including shawls, scarves, sweaters, and even home décor. Lace knitting adds a delicate and intricate touch to any project.
My name is Hellen James, and I’m a crochet and knitting expert. I’ve been crocheting since I was just a kid, but I started taking it seriously when I realized that it was a great way to de-stress and relax. Now that I have kids of my own, I love teaching them how to do it too!