pinwheels knitting stitch pattern swatch in yellow yarn, 12-stitch repeat

PINWHEELS knitting stitch pattern: Reversible knit and purl stitch

This post was originally published in 2018 and has been updated with a new high-resolution chart, photo, and improved instructions for 2026.

Add a sense of whimsical movement to your knitting with the Pinwheels stitch pattern. This clever geometric design creates a rotating ‘windmill’ effect using only basic knit and purl stitches. The best part? It’s 100% reversible, making it the perfect choice for cozy scarves, reversible shawls, and modern baby blankets where both sides need to look beautiful. Part of the Oh La Lana! Stitch Library, this rhythmic pattern is easy to memorize and creates a thick, squishy fabric that stays perfectly flat.

Skill levelMultipleRepeatReversible
Beginner (only knits and purls)12 stitches14 rowsYes
pinwheels knitting stitch pattern swatch in yellow yarn, 12-stitch repeat

Pinwheels Knitting Stitch: Written instructions

Row 1) (RS) p6, k6

Row 2) p5, k1, p1, k5

Row 3) p4, k2, p2, k4

Row 4) p3, k3, p3, k3

Row 5) p2, k4, p4, k2

Row 6) p1, k5, p5, k1

Row 7) k6, p6

Row 8) p6, k6

Row 9) k1, p5, k5, p1

Row 10) k2, p4, k4, p2

Row 11) k3, p3, k3, p3

Row 12) k4, p2, k2, p4

Row 13) k5, p1, k1, p5

Row 14) k6, p6

Pinwheels Knitting Stitch: Chart

Read all odd rows from right to left, and all even rows from left to right.

pinwheels knitting stitch pattern chart - Oh La Lana! stitch library
legend for knit and purl charts

Want to see more?

You can browse more stitch patterns in Oh La Lana! Stitch Library.

Pin it!

If you like this stitch, use the image below to save it in your Pinterest knitting board.

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