How to Knit a Pebble Stitch

The pebble stitch can be knitted using different weights of yarn.

Special stitch patterns give variety and texture to knitting projects. The pebble stitch creates a raised, bumpy effect on what is otherwise a flat knitted surface. The "pebbles" of this pattern are evenly spaced in repeating rows. It is suitable for scarves, washcloths, decorative edging, or any other project that benefits from a highly-textured pattern. It can also be accomplished with almost any size of needle or type of yarn. The pebble stitch is completed over an even number of stitches and requires the basic knitting techniques of casting on, knitting, purling and knitting two stitches together.

Things You'll Need

• Yarn
• Knitting needles

Instructions

1. Cast an even number of stitches with yarn onto a knitting needle.

2. Knit the first row of stitches. Turn the work around when you reach the end of the row.

3. Purl the second row of stitches, again turning the work around at the end.

4. Knit the first stitch of the third row. Knit the next two stitches together. Continue knitting two stitches together until one stitch remains. Knit the final stitch. Turn the work around.

5. Knit the first stitch of the fourth row. Knit into the horizontal bar of yarn between the first stitch and the next unworked stitch to make an increase stitch. Knit the next stitch. Continue alternating between knitting into the bar between stitches, and the following stitch on the needle, until one stitch remains. Knit the final stitch. Turn the work around.

6. Repeat the four rows to continue making the pebble stitch pattern.

References

• Lion Brand Yarn: Learn to Knit
• Dishcloth Boutique; Pebble-Stitch Cloth; Cindy Bartorillo
• "Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Needlework"; 1979