Straight Lace Knitting Stitch

Straight Lace Knitting Stitch by Janice Jones

The straight lace knitting stitch is a classic and versatile pattern that creates a beautiful, delicate texture in your knitted projects.

This stitch is perfect for beginners looking to expand their knitting skills and add a touch of elegance to their work. The straight lace stitch is a combination of simple knit stitches, yarn overs and knit two together arranged to form a stunning lace pattern.

This article will explore the basics of the straight lace knitting stitch, its variations, and how to incorporate it into your knitting projects.

Straight Lace Knitting Stitch

If you have never attempted lace, this could be the easiest and best pattern for you to try. It is a one-row repeat that is easy to memorize, and I will teach you how to read your stitches so you will never get lost.

When I first attempted my first knit lace stitch, I was forever getting lost. I was so frustrated: I knit two rows and ripped out one, to the point that I never wanted to see lace again. Have you ever experienced that level of frustration?

Nevertheless, I know that there are some projects that just scream: LACE, so I was thrilled when I found this stitch. For now, this could be my new favorite lace stitch.

Skills Needed to Make this Stitch:

• How to Cast on stitches using the long tail method
• How to Make the Knit Stitch
• How to Do the Knit Two Together (K2tog), a knit decrease stitch.  Or see instructions below.
• How to make the yarn over (a knit increase stitch.) Or, see instructions below.
• How to Bind Off

Skill Level

Basic

Supplies You Will Need to Make a Swatch

• Yarn (I am using a #4 worsted weight Merino Wool)
• Straight knitting needles (I am working on a number US 7 (4.5 mm) Bamboo dpn
• Scissors
• Tapestry Needle for weaving in ends.

Abbreviations

• *   *: repeat the instructions between the two asterisks for the number of times indicated.
• CO:  cast-on (long-tail cast-on method)
• K:  knit
• K2TOG:  knit 2 stitches together
• YO:  yarn over
• St/s:  Stitch/stitches
• BO:  Bind off

Notes

• This is a reversible knit stitch.
• All instructions are written in US Terms.
• The pattern is a one-row repeat.
• Cast on a multiple of 3 stitches.

How to Make a Yarn Over (YO)

A yarn over is a simple way to create decorative holes, increase the number of stitches, or form specific stitch patterns in your knitting project. It is an integral part of lace knitting. There are many ways to make a yarn over, but for this project, I will concentrate on how to make one after a knit stitch. 

Work to the location where you want to make a yarn-over. With the yarn behind the needle, wrap it from the right to the left and over the right-hand needle.  Hold it in place while you make your next stitch.

How to Make a Knit Two Together (K2tog)

The knit two-together K2tog is an easy decrease stitch. Work to the location where you will make the K2tog. Insert the right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle. Work both stitches together as if they were one stitch.

The YO and K2tog worked together to create the holes that make this lace stitch pattern.

Hints:

If this is your first attempt at lace, use wood or bamboo knitting needles. Steel needles can be too sleek, making it difficult to keep the stitches on the needle.

I recommend using wool or wool blend yarn in a light color so you can see your stitches.

Instructions:

CO in multiples of 3
CO  21 sts.

Row One and All Subsequent Rows:  *K1, YO, K2TOG*

Instructions Written Out:

I cast on 21 stitches.

Row One:  *Make one knit stitch, Yarn over, and make one knit two together.  Repeat from * to the end of the row.

Row Two and Beyond:  Repeat row 1 until you reach your desired length.

Bind off and weave in ends.

What Can You Make with the Straight Lace Knit Stitch

The straight lace knitting stitch is a versatile pattern that can be used in various projects. Here are some ideas:

1. Scarves and shawls: The straight lace stitch creates a lightweight and airy fabric, perfect for beautifully draped scarves and shawls.
2. Baby blankets: The delicate lace pattern adds a touch of elegance to baby blankets, making them perfect for special occasions or cherished keepsakes.
3. Tops: Incorporate the straight lace stitch into sweaters and tops for a feminine and stylish look. The lace pattern can be used over or as an accent on cuffs, hems, or necklines.
4. Pillows and cushion cover: Use the straight lace stitch to create decorative pillows or cushion covers, adding a touch of sophistication to your home decor.
5. Table runners and placemats: The straight lace stitch can create elegant table runners and placemats, perfect for dining room decor or special occasions.
6. Curtains and window treatments: Lightweight curtains or windows made with the straight lace stitch can add a delicate and airy feel to any room.
7. Wrist warmers and Fingerless Gloves: To add a touch of elegance, Incorporate the straight lace stitch into the design of gloves and mittens, either all over or as an accent on the cuffs.

These are just a few examples of the many projects that can be made using the straight lace knitting stitch. Its versatility and timeless appeal make it an excellent choice for many knitted items.

Last Words

The straight lace knitting stitch is a timeless and elegant pattern that every knitter should have in their repertoire. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for many projects, from delicate baby blankets to stylish scarves and shawls.

By mastering the basic straight lace stitch and experimenting with its variations, you can create stunning pieces that showcase your knitting skills and add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe.

So, grab your needles and yarn, and start exploring the wonderful world of the straight lace knitting stitch today!

Pin Now, Knit Later:  How to Make the Straight Lace Knitting Stitch

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a small  commission.

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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