Andalusian stitch is a basic knit purl knitting stitch pattern that I love but I never think to use on projects. It’s a pretty easy four-row repeat where three of the rows are just stockinette stitch.
You need a multiple of two plus one stitches for it to work, and you knit the first row, purl the second, then work knit 1, purl 1 across the next row (ending with a knit 1) and purl the fourth row.
This also gives you some practice in reading your knitting because you can count rows on the fabric instead of marking them down on paper or with a row counter if you want.
Andalusian stitch is so easy you don’t really need to practice it before you dive into a pattern using it.
This time of year I’d love to recommend the Aosta Summer Top 2.0 from The Knit Purl Girl. (It’s 2.0 because it was a relaunch of an older pattern.)
This top down raglan is worked in the round with allover Andalusian stitch (other than ribbed edges; because it’s mostly stockinette it does tend to curl without them). The pattern calls for two strands of fingering weight yarn to be held together but you can also use a single strand of DK weight yarn, so long as you can get gauge.
The pattern comes in 12 sizes, with an actual finished chest measurement of 30.75 to 58.75 inches, or 78 to 149 cm. It’s meant to be worn with what the designer calls neutral ease, ranging from 1.5 inch/3.5 cm positive ease to 1.5 inches/3.5 cm negative ease for smaller sizes, or 2 inches/5 cm positive to negative ease range for the larger sizes.
That way it’s up to you if you want a super snug fit or a little more room. It’s meant to fit like a cozy t-shirt.
I love the refined look the Andalusian stitch gives this one and I just might need to make it for myself soon! You can grab the pattern on Ravelry.
[Photo: The Knit Purl Girl]
Knitting Patterns for Your Summer Picnic
