How To Knit Garter Stitch

No matter your skill level, garter stitch is a foundation you’ll return to again and again. It’s simple enough to be meditative yet versatile enough to adapt to a wide range of creative projects. Ready to get started?

Let’s dive into the tools and techniques you’ll need to knit the garter stitch!

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Garter Stitch

Knitting garter stitch is as simple as it gets, making it an ideal choice for beginners and a relaxing go-to for seasoned knitters. As you can see in the video, garter stitch creates a stretchy, reversible fabric that is thick and durable. The texture created by knitting all rows

This garter stitch swatch was knit using Bernat Super Value in the colourway Grey Ragg on size 6* Addi click knitting needles. I cast on 26 stitches using the long tail cast on.
*I am a loose knitter so I size down. The recommended knitting needles for this yarn is 5.0mm US Size 8.

Follow these steps to create this timeless stitch pattern:

How To Knit Garter Stitch Flat

Step 1: Cast On

Start by casting on the desired number of stitches for your project. For beginners, the long-tail cast-on method is a great choice as it creates a neat, stretchy edge.

Step 2: Knit Every Row

Garter stitch is created by knitting every single row. You will knit on both the right side and wrong side of your work. This means you don’t need to worry about purling—just work in knit stitches from the start of the row to the end. When you reach the last stitch, turn your work and repeat.

If you are knitting in the round, you will alternate knit and purl rounds to create garter stitch.

Step 3: Bind Off

Once your project reaches the desired length, it’s time to bind off. To perform a basic bind off: knit the first two stitches as usual, then pass the first stitch over the second and off the needle. Knit the next stitch and repeat until only one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a small tail, and pull it through the final stitch to secure.

Pro Tip: To keep your edges tidy, consider slipping the first stitch of each row purlwise (without knitting it). This creates a smooth, even edge that’s especially helpful for scarves and blankets.

How to Knit Garter Stitch In The Round

Knitting garter stitch in the round is a little different than working it flat. If you are comfortable purling, then it is just as easy.

Step 1: Cast On

Start by casting on the desired number of stitches for your project. For beginners, the long-tail cast-on method is a great choice as it creates a neat, stretchy edge. Place a stitch market to indicate your beginning of round.

Step 2: Knit a Round, Purl a Round

Garter stitch in the round is created by alternating knit and purl rounds. Knit your first round and when you come to your stitch marker, slip the marker and purl the next round. Alternative knit and purl rounds until you have reached the desired length of your garter stitch section.

Step 3: Bind Off

Once your project reaches the desired length, it’s time to bind off. To perform a basic bind off: knit the first two stitches as usual, then pass the first stitch over the second and off the needle. Knit the next stitch and repeat until only one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a small tail, and pull it through the final stitch to secure.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Even with its simplicity, garter stitch can present a few challenges, especially for beginners. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

Uneven Tension

If your stitches look uneven, try relaxing your grip on the yarn and practicing consistent hand movements. Over time, your tension will naturally even out.

Dropped Stitches

Dropped stitches are easy to spot in garter stitch—they’ll look like a loose loop. Use a crochet hook or your knitting needle to pick up the stitch and work it back into place.

Twisted or Messy Edges

If the edges of your garter stitch project seem messy, it might be due to inconsistent tension or twisting the yarn as you turn your work. Try slipping the first stitch of each row purlwise or practice turning your work smoothly. Tension will improve with time – be patient and keep practicing.

Losing Track of Rows

Because each ridge in garter stitch equals two rows, you can count the ridges to keep track. For example, 10 ridges mean you’ve knitted 20 rows.

Benefits of Garter Stitch

Garter stitch isn’t just simple—it’s packed with practical and aesthetic benefits that make it a favorite among knitters.

Reversible Fabric

One of the best things about garter stitch is that it looks the same on both sides, making it perfect for scarves, blankets, and other projects where both sides are visible.

Elasticity and Texture

The ridges created by garter stitch make the fabric stretchy and soft, giving your projects a cozy, handmade feel. It’s particularly suited for items that need flexibility, like baby knits or wraps.

Forgiving Nature

Garter stitch is incredibly forgiving when it comes to uneven tension, making it ideal for new knitters or for relaxing, meditative knitting.

Adaptability

This stitch pairs beautifully with other patterns, works well in stripes, and shines in projects made with textured or variegated yarns.

Creative Ways to Use Garter Stitch

Garter stitch might be simple, but it’s far from boring. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it into your projects:

Striped Garter Stitch

Add a pop of color by changing yarns at the start of a new row to create bold or subtle stripes. This is a great way to use up leftover yarn and experiment with color combinations.

Garter Stitch as a Border

Garter stitch is excellent for borders on more intricate projects, like lace shawls or stockinette blankets, because its flat, textured edges prevent curling.

Combining Garter Stitch with Other Patterns

Mix garter stitch with stockinette, ribbing, or lace to create visual interest and texture contrast. For example, alternate garter stitch panels with stockinette for a striped, dimensional effect.

Chunky Garter Stitch Projects

Using bulky or super bulky yarn with garter stitch creates a modern, oversized look that’s great for cozy blankets, cowls, or sweaters.

Shaping with Garter Stitch

Garter stitch works beautifully with shaping techniques like increases and decreases, making it ideal for triangle shawls, asymmetrical wraps, and baby garments.