Glossary / Garter stitch
garterGarter stitch
Knit every row; the ridged, squishy, beginner-friendly fabric.
Also written: g st
How to work it
Knit every stitch of every row when working flat, and the fabric builds up in soft horizontal ridges, one ridge for every two rows. Garter stitch lies flat without curling, looks the same on both sides, and stretches generously, which makes it the classic choice for scarves, blanket borders, and first projects. In the round you alternate a knit round with a purl round to get the same fabric.
Common confusions
How many rows make one garter ridge?
Two. Each visible horizontal ridge is a pair of rows, which is why garter row gauge is usually counted in ridges rather than rows. Counting ridges and doubling is far more reliable than trying to count individual rows.
How do I work garter stitch in the round?
Alternate a knit round and a purl round. Knitting every round in the round makes stockinette, not garter, because you never see the wrong side. This catches people out when they move a flat garter pattern onto circular needles.
In other languages
| Language | Term | Abbreviation |
|---|---|---|
| English | Garter stitch | garter |
| Español | Punto bobo | no standard code |
| Deutsch | Kraus rechts | kr re |
| Français | Point mousse | no standard code |
| Italiano | Punto legaccio | no standard code |
| 日本語 | ガーター編み | no standard code |
Related stitches
Keep your place while you work this stitch. Worsted counts your rows and rounds and remembers your spot in the pattern, for crochet and knitting.
Get Worsted