The Herringbone Lace Rib stitch is a beautiful and relatively simple knitting pattern that combines elements of ribbing, lace, and a slight herringbone texture. The “rib” comes from the alternating knit and purl stitches, creating vertical lines. The “lace” is introduced by the yarn overs (YO) paired with decreases (P2tog), creating small eyelets or holes. The “herringbone” effect isn’t a true herringbone stitch, but the slight slant created by the decreases gives a subtle diagonal element to the ribbed texture. Due to the yarn overs, this delicate stitch is suitable for projects where you want a lighter, airier fabric with a touch of elegance. It would be lovely for scarves, shawls, lightweight wraps, or even decorative elements in garments.
This is an easy to remember two row repeat knitting stitch.
Abbreviations:
- K: Knit
- P: Purl
- YO: Yarn Over (bring the yarn forward between the needles, then over the right needle to create a new stitch)
- P2tog: Purl Two Together (insert the right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle as if to purl, and purl them together as one stitch)
- rep: Repeat
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- right side: the front side of the knitting.
Cast On:
Multiple of 7 + 1
Knitting Pattern Directions:
Row 1 (right side): K1, *P1, K1, YO, P2tog, K1, P1, K1; rep from * to end.
Row 2: P1, *K2, YO, P2tog, K2, P1; rep from * to end.
Rep these 2 rows.
