Half-Linen Knit Stitch Pattern

The half-linen knit stitch pattern is a woven stitch created with slip stitches to produce a tight, dense fabric, but not quite as tight as the Linen Stitch.

So, it is a great compromise for projects that need a woven look but don’t need the tight fabric of the linen stitch. Still, it is dense and doesn’t have much of a drape or stretch. It’s perfect for thick fabric like washcloths, potholders, and towels.

You can knit the half linen stitch in one color or choose two or more colors to create a warm, durable fabric. Blocking is easy as it mostly lays flat with just a little curling.

Skill Level

Easy

Abbreviations Used

• K = knit
• P = purl
• Wyif = with yarn in front
• Wyib = with yarn in back
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side
• CO = Cast on
• BO = bind off
• *    *  Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks for the number of times indicated
• Rep = Repeat

Skills Needed

• Cast on using Long Tail Cast on Method
• Knit Stitch
• Purl Stitch
• Slip one with yarn in front
• Slip one with yarn in back
• Bind off
• Weave in End
• Block (optional)

Notes about the Half-Linen Knit Stitch Pattern

• All instructions are written in U.S. Terms
• It’s a four-row repeat pattern, two of which are purl rows
• There is a stitch multiple of 2 + 1 or an odd number of stitches.
• The Half-Linen Knit Stitch is the same as the Woven Knit Stitch.
• This is a slip-stitch pattern and can be worked in one or more colors.

Is this Pattern Reversible

The right and wrong sides do not look alike, but the wrong side has it’s own pattern that is lovely. The next two photos represent the right and wrong sides of the fabric. What do you think?

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 for a Practice Swatch

Cast On: Multiples of 2 + 1

• Row 1 (RS): K1, *wyif, sl 1, wyib, k1; rep from * to end.
• Row 2: Purl all sts.
• Row 3: K2, *wyif, sl 1, wyib, k1; rep from * to end.
• Row 4: Purl all sts.

Instructions Written Out

Cast on an odd number of stitches.

Row 1: (Right Side). Make one knit stitch. The following instructions are the repeat. *Next, bring the yarn to the front side of the work. Slip one stitch as if you were making a purl stitch. Move your yarn to the back of your work and knit one. Repeat the instructions that begin with the * until you reach the end of the row.

Row 2: (Wrong side and all even numbered rows). Make purl stitches across the row.

Row 3: Make two knit stitches. The following instructions are the repeat. *Bring the yarn to the front of the work and slip one stitch as if you were making a purl stitch. Move your yarn to the back of the work and make one knit. Repeat the instructions that begin with the * until you reach the end of the row.

Row 4: Purl all the stitches across the row.

Half Linen Stitch in the Round

This stitch is worked similarly in the round except for a few stitches.  Here are the instructions:

Set up Round:  Knit.

Round 1: *K1, wyif, sl 1, wyib, repeat from * to end of round.

Round 2: Knit.

Round 3: *Wyif, sl 1, wyib, k1, repeat from * to end of round.

Round 4: Knit.

Ideas for Putting This Stitch to Use

This stitch would be perfect for any project requiring a thick, dense fabric, without much drape or stretch. A washcloth or placemat would be an ideal project for this stitch. Also pillow covers and other household items would be a good choice.

Here is a pattern I found on Ravelry for a knitted cowl.

Conclusion

The half linen stitch provides an excellent option for knitters of all skill levels seeking to create a dense, woven-look fabric without the extreme tightness of the traditional linen stitch.

Whether you want to use one or more colors, this knit stitch pattern is perfect for that range of projects.   Some of the best projects to put this stitch pattern to work include washcloths, potholders, and towels.

The stitch's simplicity and straightforward repeat pattern make it accessible even for those with just basic knitting skills, while its gentle curling and ease of blocking add to its practicality. The curling can be cured by a little blocking using steam or the wet blocking technique. 

The fabric produced is thick and durable, ideal for items that prioritize sturdiness over flexibility. Whether knitting flat or in the round, the half linen stitch offers a unique texture and reliable performance, providing knitters with creative possibilities for various functional and decorative household items.

Pin for Future Reference

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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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