Herringbone II

Herringbone II Stitch

A bold, woven texture with striking vertical movement

The Herringbone II stitch is a richly textured knit pattern that creates a fabric reminiscent of woven or braided structures. With its strong diagonal flow and layered depth, this stitch feels architectural and intentional—perfect for projects where texture takes center stage.

Although it looks complex at first glance, Herringbone II is built from a repeating rhythm of simple actions. Once you understand the key technique, the pattern becomes meditative and deeply satisfying to knit.

This stitch is best suited for confident beginners and intermediate knitters who enjoy structured fabrics and visible stitchwork.

Why You’ll Love the Herringbone II Stitch

  • Creates a dramatic, woven appearance

  • Strong vertical and diagonal texture

  • Dense, durable fabric

  • Memorable 4-row repeat

  • No charts required—purely rhythmic knitting

Herringbone II is ideal when you want your stitches to be the design.

Prefer a visual? Watch the video below!


Stitch Characteristics

Multiple:

  • Flat: 7 stitches + 1

Repeat:

  • 4 rows

Special Technique:

  • Knit 1 Below (K1B Back)

Fabric:

  • Dense, textured, minimally stretchy

The combination of knit-below stitches and decreases pulls the fabric inward, creating a sturdy, interlocking structure.

Special Abbreviation

K1B Back (Knit 1 Below, Back):
From the top, insert the point of the right-hand needle into the back of the stitch one row below the next stitch on the left-hand needle and knit it. Then knit the stitch above as instructed.

This technique is what gives Herringbone II its signature depth and layered look.

How to Knit the Herringbone II Stitch

Flat

(multiple of 7 stitches + 1; 4-row repeat)

Row 1 (WS):
Purl.

Row 2 (RS):
*k2tog, k2, k1b back then knit the stitch above, k2; repeat from * to last stitch, k1.

Row 3 (WS):
Purl.

Row 4 (RS):
k3, k1b back then knit the stitch above, k2, k2tog, *k2, k1b back then knit the stitch above, k2, k2tog; repeat from * to end.

Repeat Rows 1–4 for pattern.


What Knit-Below Stitches Do

Knitting into a stitch from the row below changes how the fabric stacks and locks together. In Herringbone II, this results in:

  • Deeply defined texture

  • A woven, almost braided appearance

  • A firm fabric that resists stretching

  • Excellent stitch stability

Because the fabric is dense, this stitch shines in projects where structure matters more than drape.

Where to Use Herringbone II

This stitch works especially well for:

  • Scarves and cowls

  • Blankets and throws

  • Pillows and home décor

  • Bags and structured accessories

It’s less suited for garments requiring elasticity, but perfect for statement pieces and heirloom-style knits.

Tips for Success

  • Use light to medium solid yarns to highlight stitch definition

  • Keep your tension relaxed—tight knitting can make the fabric too stiff

  • Practice the K1B motion slowly at first until it feels natural

  • Swatch generously to understand the fabric behavior

Add It to Your Stitch Toolbox

Herringbone II is a showstopper stitch that transforms simple yarn into something truly special. Once the rhythm clicks, it becomes an engaging pattern that rewards patience with stunning texture.

If you’re ready to knit something bold and tactile, this stitch is well worth adding to your repertoire.

Happy knitting 🧶

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