Seed Stitch Knitting Pattern

Instructions

Tap a section when you finish it.

1. 1Stitch multiple and cast onSeed stitch is worked over a multiple of 2 sts + 1; with an odd number of stitches every row starts and ends the same way. For the swatch, cast on 25 sts (2 x 12 + 1) with 4.5 mm needles. Seed stitch doesn't curl, so no extra edge stitches or garter border are needed.
2. 2Pattern row (1-row repeat)Row 1 (RS): *k1, p1; rep from * to last st, k1. (25 sts) Row 2 and all following rows: work as Row 1. With an odd stitch count each row begins and ends with a knit, so you automatically purl the stitches that look like knits and knit the ones that look like purls. The pattern repeat is a single row.
3. 3Learn to read your stitchesThe secret of seed stitch is to look at the stitch on the needle and work the opposite. A stitch that looks like a little 'V' is a knit: purl it. A stitch with a bump below it is a purl: knit it. Bring the yarn forward between the needles before a purl and back before a knit; if the yarn is on the wrong side you will create an extra stitch.
4. 4Knit the swatchRepeat the pattern row for 42 rows in total; the piece will measure about 13 cm. Count your stitches every 10 rows; if you have more than 25, the yarn was probably left on the wrong side somewhere. When finished, measure stitches and rows over 10 cm in the centre and compare with the gauge above.
5. 5What to make with itBecause seed stitch lies flat, it is ideal for scarves, coasters, baby blanket edges and cardigan bands. For a simple scarf, cast on 35 sts with the same yarn (about 18 cm wide) and work to 160 cm; you'll need about 300 g. For a coaster, cast on 19 sts and work 30 rows (about 10 x 9.5 cm). Always keep the stitch count odd.
6. 6FinishingBind off in pattern: knit the knit-looking stitches and purl the purl-looking ones as you bind off, so the edge keeps the seed texture. Cut the yarn leaving 15 cm and weave it in through the edge stitches with a yarn needle. Soak the swatch in lukewarm water, squeeze it in a towel, pin it out to 13 x 13 cm and let it dry.