Double Alternate Andalou Stitch 

The Double Alternate Andalou Stitch is a straightforward, beginner-friendly knit stitch made with only knit and purl stitches in an easy four-row repeat. It creates a flat fabric with a subtle texture that would be perfect for wearables, scarves, cowls, and even pillow covers.

I was curious about the name, Andalou, so I had to do some research. Is it related to the Andalusia or Double Andalusia knit stitch patterns?

First, I found that historically, all of the terms are Spanish and refer to a region in southern Spain, under Muslem control.

Here are the swatches that I made of the Andalusia knit stitch, Double Knit Stitch and the Double Alternate Andalou Stitch. I’ll let you be the judge. Personally, I do think they all resemble each other.

Skill Level

Easy

Abbreviations Used

K k = knit stitch

P p = purl stitch

CO = cast on

BO = bind off

St/st(s) stitch, stitches

RS = Right Side

*     * = Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks for the number of times indicated on the pattern.

Skills Needed

• Cast on using Long Tail Cast on Method
• Knit Stitch
• Purl Stitch
• Bind off
• Weave in End
• Block (optional)

Notes about the Double Alternate Andalou Stitch

• All instructions are written in U.S. Terms.
• It is worked entirely of knit and purl stitches.
• There is a four-row repeat and a stitch multiple of 6 + 2.
• It is not reversible.
• It tends to curl just a little, so if you are using it to make a project that needs to lay flat, try adding a garter or seed stitch border.

Is this Pattern Reversible?

No, this is not a reversible pattern. Here are photos of the right and wrong sides of the fabric so you can see the differences.

The right side shows a fabric with a stockinette background and little rows of garter stitch. The reverse side resembles a reverse stockinette, which is separated to appear as little boxes.

Supplies

• Yarn: (I used a CYC #4 worsted weight yarn, 100% acrylic.  Please feel free to use whatever yarn you have on hand for this practice swatch.
• Needles:  I used a number U.S. 7 (4.5 mm needles).  Select the knitting needle size that is appropriate for the yarn you have chosen.  This article on knitting needles might be helpful if you are new to knitting.
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Written Instructions

Cast On: Multiples of 6 + 2

For the swatch shown, I cast on 26 stitches (6 x4) + 2 = 26

Row 1: Knit all sts.

Row 2: K2, *p4, k2; rep from * to end.

Row 3: Knit all sts.

Row 4: P2, *p1, k2, p3; rep from * to end.

Repeat rows 1 – 4 until you have reached your desired length. Bind off in a knit stitch after row 1. Weave in ends and block if desired.

Instructions Written Out

Cast on a multiple of 6 plus two. I cast on 26 stitches.
(6 x 3) + 2.

Row 1: Knit all the stitches across the row.

Row 2: Make two knit stitches, Then *Purl four, knit two. * Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks to the end of the row.

Row 3: Knit all the stitches across the row.

Row 4: Purl 2.  Then, *Purl one, Knit 2, purl 3. *  Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks until you reach the end of the row.

From now on, you will repeat rows one to four until you reach your desired length.  After you have finished working row four for the last time, bind off using a knit stitch pattern across the row.  Weave in your ends and then block the swatch if desired.

Learn How to Read Knitting Charts

This relatively easy stitch does not require a knitting chart, but learning how to read and use knitting charts is always a good idea.

The chart represents how your fabric should appear. Begin knitting at the lower right corner and work from right to left across the first row.

On the second row, marked with a two, work from left to right across. Continue like this, working each row and then moving up one row. Work until you have reached your desired length.

Ideas for Putting This Stitch to Use

This beginner-friendly stitch pattern could be used instead of the standard stockinette stitch for any projects where you would typically use a stockinette pattern.

If you are using it as a stand-alone fabric, such as in making a scarf, dishcloth, or potholder, I would recommend adding a garter or seed stitch border.

Double Alternate Andalou Stitch does not curl the way stockinette does, but there is enough curl that a border would allow it to lay flat.

Use this stitch with:

• Scarves and Cowls
• Washcloths/Dishcloths
• Potholders (make two for extra thickness)
• Placemats
• Sweaters, vests, cardigans
• Blankets
• Pillow Covers

Conclusion

If you are just getting started with knitting, this is a good stitch to add to your list of knit stitch patterns. You only need to know how to knit and purl stitches. But it is not just for beginners.

This would be an ideal pattern for sweaters and other wearables. Worked on a stitch multiple of 6 + 2 and a four-row repeat, the pattern can easily be memorized so it works up quickly.

It is not reversible, so keep that in mind when you choose projects that show both right and wrong sides. I think the wrong side complements the right side, but you may not agree with me.

Have fun knitting and keep on learning.

Janice

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Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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