27 Reversible Knitting Stitches for Scarves and Blankets
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.Looking for a knitting stitch that looks good on both sides?
This collection features 27 reversible knitting stitch patterns, from simple favorites to textured designs for your next project.
Some reversible stitches look almost the same on both sides, while others have a different but attractive texture on the back.
You’ll find both kinds here, with ideas for scarves, shawls, blankets and more.
27 Reversible Knitting Stitches
If you are ready to try out reversible work, check out these knitting stitches that are perfect for all makers, beginners, and the more experienced.
Check out free patterns with instructions on how to knit each type of knitting stitch.
Take a look and you might find your next knitting project.
Happy knitting!
How To Knit Garter Stitch
The garter stitch is usually the first knit stitch that any beginner knitters learn.
It’s the basic knitting stitch pattern, it is reversible and it can be used for many projects including scarves, hats, sweaters, and baby blankets.
How To Knit Seed Stitch For Beginners
The seed stitch consists of single knits and purls that alternate both horizontally and vertically.
Seed stitch is a great textured stitch and gets its name from the texture of the knitted fabric – the little purl bumps look like scattered seeds.
This is a reversible stitch pattern and both sides of the work look the same, it's perfect for many projects.
You can also create a beautiful seed stitch border with this pattern.
How To Knit Rib Stitch Patterns (1x1 and 2x2 ribbing)
The 1 x 1 rib stitch and the 2 x 2 rib stitch are knit stitches that are used for creating a reversible fabric in many knitting patterns.
It has a large amount of stretch which is great for such projects as waistbands, sleeves, hats, and scarves.
How To Knit The Basketweave Stitch Pattern
The basketweave stitch is a reversible knitting stitch pattern that creates a textured fabric resembling a woven basket.
It's achieved by alternating blocks of knit and purl stitches.
How To Knit The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
Slipped stitches create a woven texture and a very firm knitted fabric that does not curl at the edges.
Due to its reversible nature, the linen stitch is well-suited for scarves, shawls, blankets, and other items where both sides may be visible or where a reversible design is desired.
While the two sides have different looks, the right side looks like linen and the wrong side looks like seed stitch.
This is a simple knit, and perfect for projects like dishcloths. You can make one in different colors.
Fisherman's Rib Stitch Knit Pattern (Flat + In The Round)
This stitch is renowned for its plush, thick fabric, making it ideal for practical and cozy projects.
Dive in and master the fisherman’s rib stitch with this easy and rewarding project!
The Box Stitch
The box stitch is a reversible knitting stitch that creates a checkerboard design, its edges don't curl and it's perfect for projects like blankets and scarves.
Hurdle Stitch Knitting Pattern (Easy For Beginners)
The Hurdle Stitch, also known as the Hurdle Rib Stitch or Mock Honeycomb Stitch, is a knitting stitch pattern that creates a textured fabric with a raised, grid-like pattern.
It is achieved by alternating columns of slipped stitches with rows of knit and purl stitches.
The hurdle stitch is reversible and it's perfect for projects like blankets and scarves.
The Brioche Stitch
The brioche stitch is a unique knitting stitch that creates a reversible, textured fabric with a distinctive ribbed appearance on both sides.
The stitch pattern results in a lofty and squishy fabric, often used for its warmth and visual appeal.
The Lattice Stitch
The Lattice Stitch is a reversible knitting stitch pattern that creates an open, grid-like texture resembling a lattice fence.
It consists of alternating rows of knit and purl stitches to create the crisscross pattern.
The Grid Stitch
The grid stitch is made by alternating knit and purl stitches in a 2x2 rib pattern to create a grid or checkerboard-like appearance.
This pattern is reversible because the same simple combination of knits and purls is worked on both sides of the fabric.
The result is a fabric with a consistent and uniform texture on both the right side and the wrong side.
Double Stockinette Stitch
How To Knit The Double Stockinette Stitch by Nimble Needles.
This stitch pattern creates a reversible fabric with two layers of stockinette stitch on each side.
This results in a thick, squishy fabric that is excellent for making warm and cozy items such as scarves, blankets, and reversible hats.
The Close Check Stitch
The close check stitch is a knitting pattern that creates a fabric with a checkered or grid-like texture.
It is a reversible stitch pattern, meaning it looks the same on both the right side and the wrong side of the fabric.
The Diagonal Basketweave Stitch
The diagonal basketweave stitch is a knitting pattern that creates a textured fabric with diagonal woven-like patterns.
It is a reversible stitch pattern, meaning it looks the same on both the right side and the wrong side of the fabric.
Garter Slip Stitch Knitting Stitch Pattern
The garter slip stitch is a reversible knitting pattern that combines the garter stitch texture with slipped stitches to create a unique and visually interesting fabric.
The Moss Stitch Check
The moss stitch check stitch, also known as the seed stitch check or seed stitch grid, is a knitting pattern that creates a textured checkered or grid-like pattern using the moss stitch (also known as the seed stitch).
It is a reversible stitch pattern, meaning it looks the same on both the right side and the wrong side of the fabric.
The Mistake Rib Stitch
The mistake rib stitch is a knitting pattern that resembles a ribbed fabric but is actually created using a combination of knit and purl stitches.
It is a reversible stitch pattern, meaning it looks the same on both the right side and the wrong side of the fabric.
The Irish Mesh Stitch
The Irish mesh stitch is a knitting pattern that creates an open and airy fabric with a mesh-like appearance.
The Irish Mesh Stitch is often used for lightweight and breathable projects such as shawls, scarves, or summer garments.
Its reversible nature allows the fabric to have a consistent appearance on both sides, making it suitable for items where both sides will be visible.
Fisherman's Rib Stitch Headband Pattern
The fisherman's rib stitch is a reversible knitting stitch pattern that creates a thick, textured fabric with a prominent ribbed pattern.
It is often used in garments and accessories for its warmth and elasticity.
The stitch pattern resembles a traditional ribbing but with a deeper and more pronounced texture.
Double Seed Stitch/Irish Moss Stitch Dishcloth Knitting Pattern
How To Knit The Double Seed Stitch (also known as Irish Moss Stitch).
It is a versatile knitting pattern known for its textured and reversible appearance, created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a two-row repeating pattern.
The Checker Stitch
The checker stitch is a knitting pattern that creates a fabric with a checkered or grid-like texture.
It is often used for blankets, scarves, or even as a decorative panel in garments.
Its reversible nature allows you to display either side as the right side, providing versatility in your designs.
The Mock Cable
The mock cable stitch is a knitting pattern that mimics the appearance of traditional cable stitches without actually using a cable needle.
It is often used in various knitting projects, such as scarves, hats, and sweaters, to add texture and visual interest.
Its reversible nature allows you to display either side as the right side, providing versatility in your designs.
Sand Stitch
Sand Stitch Pattern by Cozy Woodland Cottage Knits.
The sand stitch is a textured knitting pattern created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a checkerboard-like design.
This simple yet visually appealing stitch is often used for various projects, adding a subtle, grainy texture to the fabric.
The Roman Stripe Stitch
The Roman stripe stitch is a reversible knitting stitch pattern that forms vertical stripes on the fabric.
It is an eye-catching pattern that adds visual interest to your knitted projects.
The Zigzag Rib Stitch
The zigzag rib stitch is a reversible knitting stitch pattern that creates a zigzag pattern with alternating columns of knit and purl stitches.
It produces an interesting texture and adds a dynamic element to your knitting projects.
Left Slanting Diagonal Rib
Diagonal Rib Stitch ( Left-Slanting) by La Visch Designs.
The diagonal rib stitch is a dynamic knitting pattern that forms diagonal columns of raised ribs across the fabric.
This stitch is achieved by alternating knit and purl stitches in a diagonal pattern, creating an eye-catching texture and design in your knitting projects.
How To Knit Twisted Rib Stitch (Flat + In The Round)
The Twisted Rib Stitch is a variation of the traditional rib stitch that adds a twist to the knit stitches, resulting in a more textured and defined rib pattern.
It is a reversible stitch pattern that looks the same on both sides.
It can be used for various projects such as cuffs, and borders, or as an all-over stitch pattern.
It is particularly useful when you want a stretchy yet firm fabric, as the twisted stitches provide additional elasticity.
What Does Reversible Mean In Knitting?
A reversible knitting stitch creates fabric that looks good from either side.
The two sides might look the same, or they might have different textures that are both attractive.
That makes reversible stitches especially useful for projects where the back of the fabric may show, such as scarves, shawls and blankets.
Before settling on a stitch, look at both sides of a swatch so you know how the finished fabric will appear.
What Is The Easiest Reversible Knitting Stitch?
Garter stitch is one of the easiest reversible stitches to learn.
When you knit flat, you work every row, creating ridges that look the same on both sides.
Seed stitch is another beginner-friendly choice.
It uses alternating knit and purl stitches to create a bumpy texture on both sides. For more stretch, try a simple rib stitch.
What Are Reversible Stitches Good For?
Reversible stitches are a lovely choice for projects that can twist, fold or turn as you use them.
Try one for:
- Scarves and shawls, where either side may be visible as you wear them.
- Cowls, which can turn around the neck.
- Blankets and throws, which are often folded or draped over furniture.
- Dishcloths and home accessories, where you may use either side.
The best stitch depends on the feel you want.
A rib stitch has stretch, while some textured stitches create a thicker fabric.
If you’re unsure, knit a small swatch and see how it feels and looks from both sides.
Is Double Knitting The Same As A Reversible Stitch?
Not quite. A reversible stitch pattern can create a single layer of fabric that looks good from both sides.
Double knitting is a technique for working two connected layers of fabric at the same time.
It can create a warm, double-layered piece, often with a different color pattern on each side.
Can I Use Any Knitting Stitch For A Scarf?
You can choose from many stitch patterns, but some are better suited to scarves than others.
Since a scarf often shows both sides, a reversible stitch can help it look neat as it moves and drapes.
Check the pattern details and swatch first, especially if the stitch creates a thick or firm fabric.
Knitting Lessons
If you are a new maker and looking for in-depth instructions and video tutorials for knitting stitches and techniques, check out these knitting lessons.