Favorite Garter Stitch Knitting Patterns

Garter stitch is often one of the first stitches that new knitters learn. It’s simple, with just knitting on all rows, and a practiced knitter can knit something up pretty quickly using this stitch. Though it’s the backbone of knitting, it is one of the most under-rated stitches. We have compiled some of our favorite patterns that beautifully showcase garter stitch. Get each pattern individually or get the collection to knit them all!

Garter Stitch Accessory Patterns

Brunch Shawl

Spring is just around the corner, and it’s a great time to cast-on to a shawl. The Brunch Shawl by Melanie Rice is the perfect addition to a meal out with friends. This shawl is worked back and forth in rows and is mostly made up of garter stitch, with a simple cable along one of its sides. The shawl features a Merino wool yarn that will keep you warm on any of your walks or outdoor brunches.

Trilateral Cowl

Cowls are the perfect spring accessory. They can be lightweight enough for warmer spring days yet will still keep you cozy when it’s cool. The Trilateral Cowl, designed by Megi Burcl, uses modular knitting, colorwork, and, of course, garter stitch. This yarn used in this cowl is a blend of Merino wool, mulberry silk, and yak, so it’s very soft. There are three sections to this cowl that are joined together as you knit, which makes this striking-looking project surprisingly easy!

Alongside Slouch

Most of the time when I see beanies, they are made up of ribbing and stockinette stitch. It’s rare that I’ve seen one in just garter stitch—much less one as cleverly constructed as Stefanie Bold’s Alongside Slouch. This textural beanie highlights the simple garter stitch with a fun superwash Merino yarn. Work in short rows before joining each piece with a perpendicular join.

Garter Stitch Garment Patterns

Sidelong Tee

With warmer weather approaching, knitting a tee is the way to go. The Sidelong Tee, designed by Illitilli, is made from a breathable and lightweight cotton yarn and can easily be layered for cooler spring days. This textured tee is knit side to side from the sleeves to the cuffs and is a breeze from start to finish.

Terra Garter Raglan

Because garter stitch is often combined with other stitches, it can be difficult for it to come to the forefront. The Terra Garter Raglan, by Carol Feller lets the garter stitch shine. This top is worked from the top down and is an easy garment to complete. Garter stitch panels start at the neck and shoulder blades before flowing down to the sides of the body. The panels go into the waist to give a contoured effect. The featured yarn is a soft Aran weight yarn in a blend of baby alpaca, wool, and silk.

Garter stitch knitting pattern are fun, creative, and work up easily. It’s a stitch that’s not only ideal for beginners, but also for those who are more advanced and want to do some basic stitching. These are just a select few of the projects I aspire to work on in the next couple of months. I hope you enjoy casting-on to these projects too!