Garter Stitch Knitting Tutorial

If you are new to knitting, you will love the garter stitch. It is one of the easiest stitches you will ever learn. All you need to know is how to make the knit stitch.

Continue reading below to learn just how easy it is to make the garter knit stitch. I will walk you through the process with an easy-to-follow step-by-step tutorial.

Garter Stitch Knitting Tutorial

What Is the Garter Knit Stitch?

The garter stitch is a super easy stitch that creates a thick fabric. It creates a piece of fabric that is fully reversible, which means both sides look the same. Both sides of the fabric will have a rigged appearance. The fabric will stay flat, and it will have some stretch to it both length-wide and width-wise.  

garter stitch knitting tutorial

When is the Garter Stitch Knitting Used?

Even though the garter knit stitch is super simple, it can still be used to create eye-catching projects. Since the garter knit stitch creates a thick fabric, it is a great stitch for making winter accessories.

how to knit the garter stitch

The garter knit stitch is often used when making:

  • Hats
  • Beanies
  • Scarves
  • Sweaters
  • Slippers
  • Shawls
  • Blankets
  • Dishcloths
  • Coasters
  • and More

How To Knit The Garter Stitch

Garter Stitch Cowl Knitting Pattern from Dianalevineknits

Garter Knit Stitch Cowl Pattern from Dianalevineknits

Step-by-Step garter stitch tutorial:

If you are new to knitting, you probably already know how to knit and purl. The garter knit stitch is even easier than that. All you need to know to make the garter knit stitch is how to create a knit stitch.

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to learn how to knit the garter knit stitch:

1.    Cast on any number of stitches. You do not need a specific multiple. You can use any method you prefer.

2.    Turn your work and hold the needle in your left hand.

3. Begin making your knit stitches. To do this, insert your second needle into the first stitch from front to back and left to right. Create a loop on the right

needle by wrapping your working yarn counterclockwise around your second needle, pulling it down between the needles.

Bring the needle down and insert the tip of the needle through the loop on the left hand needle. Push the needle through and move your right hook over

until the stitch slides on.

4.    Continue making knit stitches all the way down the left needle. 

5.    When you reach the end, turn your work by switching the needles in your hands. Your working yarn should always be on the right side.

6.    Repeat steps 3-5 until you have your desired length.

Tips for Making the Garter Knit Stitch

Even though the garter knit stitch is super easy to make, there are a few tips for getting the perfect piece of cloth.

  • Uneven Edges

If you have uneven edges or do not like the way they look, add a slip stitch to the beginning of every row. This will create a cleaner looking edge.

  • Gauge is Loose

If you find your gauge is too loose, use smaller knitting needles.

  • Edge Stitches are Loose

If you find that your edge stitches are too loose, tug on the working yarn. You want the edge stitches to be a little tighter than the other stitches.

Are you looking to learn a new stitch that is easy to master? It does not get any easier than the garter stitch.

One of the easiest knitting stitches is the garter knit stitch. The garter knit stitch is the ideal stitch for sitting in front of the TV, relaxing, and crafting.

Once you master the the garter knit stitch, you can learn other knitting stitches in no time. Learn more about basic knit stitches that you should add to your repertoire here.

Here’s more stitch tutorials:

Enjoy learning the garter stitch!

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