Learn to Knit – Learn the Garter Stitch

Do you want to learn to knit the garter stitch?

Did you put “Learn to knit” on your 2017 list of goals?  The garter stitch is one of the easiest stitches to use for making blankets, scarfs, and lots of other fun projects.  The garter stitch is made using the basic knit stitch.  Aside from learning to cast on the knit stitch is usually the second stitch knitters learn.  The garter stitch is made by knitting every row.  It is perfect for watching TV while knitting.  You don’t have to worry about counting stitches or getting lost.  In these photos below I will try to explain how the stitch is made.     I used a bulky yarn and a size US 10 1/2 knitting needle ( 6.5mm) below.  Using this size needle and yarn weight I later went on to cast on 35 stitches and made a nice scarf.     *Please note:  I am knitting in the continental style below.  I find this style to be easier for those who crochet (right handed) and want to learn to knit. I think this is because the yarn is held in the left hand.  Since crocheters have already learned to hold the yarn in their left hand and control the tension this is a natural transition.  That of course, is just my own opinion.

Knit Gart Stitch

Garter Stitch

After you have cast on the stitches called for in your pattern you are ready to begin.

1. Just as in the knit stitch the yarn will be coming from behind your needle (photo 1)
2.  Insert your empty needle from the left to right  (Photo 2)
3.  Pull yarn thru with needle  (photo 3 and 4)
4. Slip off your needle   (Photo 5)
5. Repeat for all stitches on your needle  (photo 6)
6. Turn work
7. Repeat 1- 6

That’s it!  You are knitting the garter stitch

Photo 1:

Yarn behind knitting needle

Photo 2:

Inserting needle to work knit stitch

Photo 3:

Getting ready to pull yarn thru needle to knit stitch    

Photo 4:

Knitting stitch – pulling yarn out thru front 

Photo 5:

slipping stitch off knitting needle

Photo 6:

working garter stitches

If you want to see a video tutorial I have uploaded one to my YouTube Channel  the “All Crafts Channel”  Click below to enjoy it.  Please share this post with others who enjoy knitting or want to learn to knit.   Please leave any questions or comments below.  Enjoy!