The knit stitch is the foundation of knitting. When we think of knitting, it’s the stitch that comes to mind first. It forms the pretty little V’s that make up stockinette stitch and, when worked flat, creates garter stitch; in short, it’s the basis. If you’re learning to knit, the knit stitch is the first thing to master, and with it, you’ll be able to knit entire projects in no time! Here’s a tutorial to learn the knit stitch, using either the continental method (yarn held in the left hand) or the English method (yarn held in the right hand), also called Throwing.

Knit Stitch
Abbreviation: k
Level: Beginner

The Knit Stitch: Continental Method

Hold the yarn in the left hand and place it behind the work.

Step 2: Wrap the yarn around the right needle, passing it to the left of the needle, then over it.

Step 3: Bring the right needle forward to pull it through the stitch, making sure to keep the yarn on the right needle.

Step 4: Drop the stitch from the left needle.

Congratulations! You’ve knitted a knit stitch!
Soon, you’ll be able to perform these four steps in one smooth motion.

The Knit Stitch: English/American/Throwing Method

Hold the yarn in the right hand and place it behind the work.

Step 1: Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, passing it through the front loop, from left to right.

Step 2: Pass the yarn over the right needle, so that it wraps around the left side of the needle and goes over the top.

Step 3: Bring the right needle forward to pull it through the stitch, making sure to keep the yarn on the right needle.

Step 4: Drop the stitch from the left needle.

Congratulations! You’ve knitted a knit stitch!
Soon, you’ll be able to perform these four steps in one smooth motion.