How to Knit the Waffle Stitch

Co-authored by Jen Webber

Last Updated: September 6, 2019

The waffle stitch is an intricate looking textured knit stitch that is actually quite simple to create. There are four rows that you will need to work in a sequence to create the waffle pattern. Try using the waffle pattern for a simple project like a washcloth or scarf, or go big with a waffle stitch blanket.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Working the Basic Waffle Pattern Stitch

1
Cast on multiples of three plus one additional stitch. The waffle stitch requires a specific number of stitches, so you will need to count as you cast on. Your total number of stitches should be a multiple of three plus one additional stitch at the end.^{[1]
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- For example, you could cast on 30 stitches then add one more for a total of 31 stitches, or cast on 12 stitches plus one for a total of 13 stitches.
2
Knit one and purl one. To begin the pattern, knit a stitch and then follow that with a purl stitch. Repeat this pattern of knitting and purling all the way to the end of the row. Finish the row with a knit stitch.^{[2]
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3
Purl one and knit one. For the second row, begin by purling one stitch and then knitting the next stitch. This row will be just the opposite of your first row. Finish the row with a purl stitch.^{[3]
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4
Knit to the end. Your third row will be all knit stitches. Knit all stitches to the end of the row.^{[4]
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5
Purl to the end. Your fourth row will be all purl stitches. Purl all of the stitches until you reach the end of the row.^{[5]
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6
Repeat the sequence. To continue working the waffle stitch, repeat the sequence over again starting with the first row (alternating between knitting and purling). Continue to work the rows in sequence until your project is the desired length.^{[6]
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- Cast off as usual to finish your project.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Using the Waffle Stitch

1
Create a waffle stitch washcloth. The waffle stitch is excellent for washcloths because of the texture it will give your project. Try using some cotton yarn to make a waffle stitch washcloth. This is also a great way to practice and perfect the waffle stitch.
- Use worsted weight 100% cotton yarn with US size 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles to make a washcloth.
- Cast on 33 stitches and then work waffle stitch pattern as usual.^{[7]
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2
Knit a waffle stitch scarf. The waffle stitch makes an interesting scarf as well. It adds some nice texture and an interesting pattern to your work. Try using the waffle stitch to create a scarf as a gift for a friend or just for yourself.
- Use a worsted weight acrylic yarn with US size 8 (5mm) knitting needles, or use the yarn of your choice with the needle size recommended on the package.
- Cast on 37 stitches if using worsted weight yarn.^{[8]
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  Research source} If you are using a bulky yarn, then you will need fewer stitches, such as 22 or 25.
3
Make a waffle stitch blanket. You can also use the waffle stitch to make a cozy, textured blanket. Try using the waffle stitch to make a small lap blanket or an extra large blanket to enjoy.
- Remember to cast on a multiple of three plus one stitch. For example, you could cast on 99 stitches plus one for a total of 100 stitches for your blanket.
- Check your yarn gauge or follow a pattern to determine how many stitches you should cast on for the blanket size you want to make.^{[9]
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