ZIG ZAG knitting stitch
The Zig Zag knitting stitch is a classic geometric texture that adds a modern, architectural touch to any project. This particular version of the Zig Zag knitting stitch is designed to be knitted flat, making it an ideal choice for scarves, dishcloths, or individual blanket blocks like the ones in our Beginner KALs. If you prefer to knit it in the round, please refer to the FAQs section at the bottom of this post for tips on how to adapt the chart for circular knitting.
| Skill level | Multiple | Repeat | Reversible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner (only knits and purls) | 8 stitches | 8 rows | No |
Zig Zag Knitting Stitch: Written instructions
Row 1) (RS) p1, k1, p1, k5
Row 2) p4, k1, p1, k1, p1
Row 3) k2, p1, k1, p1, k3
Row 4) p2, k1, p1, k1, p3
Row 5) k4, p1, k1, p1, k1
Row 6) p2, k1, p1, k1, p3
Row 7) k2, p1, k1, p1, k3
Row 8) p4, k1, p1, k1, p1
Zig Zag Knitting Stitch: Chart
Read all odd rows from right to left, and all even rows from left to right.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is the Zig Zag stitch pattern reversible? The Zig Zag stitch is not technically reversible. While the back side has an interesting “bumpy” texture, the crisp geometric lines of the zig-zag are most prominent on the “Right Side” of the work.
- What is the best yarn for this stitch pattern? To make the “zig” and the “zag” pop, choose a smooth yarn with good stitch definition, such as a cotton blend or a tightly spun wool. Highly variegated or “fuzzy” yarns can hide the geometric pattern.
- Does this stitch curl at the edges? Because it uses a balanced mix of knits and purls, it has less of a tendency to curl than Stockinette stitch. However, for a professional finish on a blanket, I always recommend adding a 3-5 stitch border (like Seed stitch) and using the slipped-stitch edge technique.
- Can I knit this in the round? Yes, absolutely! To knit the Zig Zag in the round, you would simply read every row of the chart from right to left and substitute any “Purl on the Wrong side” instructions for their “Knit on the Right Side” equivalent.
Want to see more?
You can browse more beginner stitch patterns here. UPDATE 2026: Make sure to bookmark the page and visit it regularly. I’m on a mission to add all my years of knitting patterns into this Stitch Library!
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