Classic Letter I knitting pattern
This pattern was originally published in 2019. It has been fully updated for 2026 with a new high-resolution chart, revised instructions and project summary.
A pillar of timeless design! As part of my ongoing Classic Alphabet Refresh, I am delighted to present the updated Classic Letter I. This square features a traditional, prominent serif silhouette that gives the letter an elegant and grounded architectural presence. Knitted entirely with simple knit and purl textures, this 52SP-standard block is highly approachable for beginners and serves as a beautiful centerpiece or connector for family blankets and custom monograms.
Looking for a different style? Check out the Modern Letter I for a contemporary finish.
| Project Detail | Requirement |
| Skill Level | Beginner (only knits and purls) |
| Yarn Weight | DK or Worsted |
| Needle Size | 4mm / US 6 (and 4.5mm / US 7 for casting on and binding off stitches) |
| Finished Size | 8.5” x 8.5” (22 cm x 22 cm) |
Materials & Tools for the Classic Letter I block
- Yarn: 70 yds (64 m) of DK yarn (8 ply). OR 140 yds (128 m) of light fingering yarn (approx 3 ply) USED DOUBLE.
- Needles: 4mm / US 6 (and 4.5mm / US 7 for casting on and binding off stitches).
- Tools: tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends, scissors.
- Gauge: 21 sts x 28 rows in stocking st with US 6 (4 mm needles) and DK yarn = 4” x 4” (10 cm x 10 cm)
NOTE: You can change the yarn weight and needle size to obtain different sized blocks. Let me know in the comments if you need help!
Classic Letter I: Knitted alphabet square instructions
Abbreviations:
- CO: cast on
- RS: right side
- WS: wrong side
- st(s): stitch(es)
- k: knit
- p: purl
The Pattern: General Instructions
- Cast on sts
CO 43 sts with US 7 (4.5 mm) needles.
I always cast on and bind off stitches with larger needles than I use for the main work. This prevents my cast on and bind off rows from being too tight. - Garter stitch bottom border
With US 6 (4 mm) needles, knit 4 rows.
Slip first stitch on every row as if you were to knit it, but without knitting it (except on the first row). It will form a neat and sturdy border. - Main pattern with garter stitch side borders
Continue working the next 55 rows as follows:
4 garter sts, Classic I knitting pattern over 35 sts, 4 garter sts
You can follow either the row-by-row written instructions or the chart below for the Classic I knitting pattern. - Garter stitch top border
Knit 4 rows.
- Bind off
Bind off all sts with a US 7 (4.5 mm) needle. Cut yarn and weave in ends.
- (Optional) Blocking
Block your square to its final measures.
Classic Letter I Knitting Pattern: Row-by-Row Instructions
Click to expand
Row 1) and every following odd row (RS) Knit all stitches
Row 2) Purl all stitches
Row 4) Purl all stitches
Row 6) p11, k13, p11
Row 8) p11, k13, p11
Row 10) p11, k13, p11
Row 12) p11, k13, p11
Row 14) p14, k7, p14
Row 16) p14, k7, p14
Row 18) p14, k7, p14
Row 20) p14, k7, p14
Row 22) p14, k7, p14
Row 24) p14, k7, p14
Row 26) p14, k7, p14
Row 28) p14, k7, p14
Row 30) p14, k7, p14
Row 32) p14, k7, p14
Row 34) p14, k7, p14
Row 36) p14, k7, p14
Row 38) p14, k7, p14
Row 40) p14, k7, p14
Row 42) p14, k7, p14
Row 44) p11, k13, p11
Row 46) p11, k13, p11
Row 48) p11, k13, p11
Row 50) p11, k13, p11
Row 52) Purl all stitches
Row 54) Purl all stitches
Row 55) Knit all stitches
Classic Letter I Knitting Chart
- Read all odd rows from right to left, and all even rows from left to right.
💡Note & Tip: These charted instructions represent the 35-stitch design area. Remember to work your 4-stitch garter borders at the beginning and end of every row. I recommend using stitch markers to separate the borders from the main design area.
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Looking for more letters?
Check out the Alphabet Gallery for our collection for Uppercase (classic and modern) and Lowercase letters.
Planning a Blanket?
You might find useful our guide on How to Join Knitted Squares!
Thank you for I!
You’re welcome 😀