If you love texture but want something simple enough to knit while you chat or unwind, waffle stitch knitting is a wonderful place to start. This stitch uses only knits and purls, repeats over just four rows, and creates a cozy, grid-like texture that looks far more involved than it is.
In this Stitch Spotlight, I will walk you through what the waffle stitch is, where it shines, and exactly how to knit it flat or in the round. You will also find tips, a free video tutorial, and answers to common questions at the end.
What Is the Waffle Stitch in Knitting?
The waffle stitch is a textured stitch pattern made by alternating knit and purl stitches. The combination forms a blocky, waffle-like texture, with little raised purl peaks that give the stitch its name. Because it is built entirely from knits and purls, it is often rated as an experienced beginner stitch. If you can knit, purl, and count to three, you can knit a waffle.
A few qualities make it so popular:
- It lays flat. Unlike stockinette, which tends to curl, the waffle stitch lays flat without borders or blocking.
- It is nearly reversible. The right side and wrong side look similar, though not identical, so both sides look good.
- It is rhythmic. Two textured rows and two plain rows make it easy to memorize.
What to Knit With the Waffle Stitch
The waffle stitch is a favorite for:
- Dishcloths and washcloths, where the texture adds a little scrub
- Scarves and cowls, since both sides look lovely
- Blankets, for an all-over cozy texture
- Socks and dish towel sets, as some knitters enjoy using it
It works in any yarn weight. Simply choose needles suited to your yarn.
How to Knit the Waffle Stitch: Step-by-Step Instructions
You will need: yarn, knitting needles to suit your yarn, scissors, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. You only need to know the knit stitch, the purl stitch, a cast on, and a bind off.
Abbreviations
- K = knit
- P = purl
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
- * * = repeat the stitches between the asterisks
Waffle stitch worked flat (back and forth)
Cast on a multiple of 3 stitches, plus 1. For example, 28 stitches (9 x 3 = 27, plus 1).
- Row 1 (RS): *K1, P2*, repeat to the last stitch, K1.
- Row 2 (WS): P1, *K2, P1*, repeat to the end.
- Row 3 (RS): Knit all stitches.
- Row 4 (WS): Purl all stitches.
Repeat Rows 1 to 4 until your piece is the length you want, then bind off.
Waffle stitch worked in the round
Cast on a multiple of 3 stitches (no extra stitch needed) and join to work in the round.
- Round 1: *K1, P2*, repeat to the end of the round.
- Round 2: *K1, P2*, repeat to the end of the round.
- Round 3: Knit all stitches.
- Round 4: Knit all stitches.
Repeat Rounds 1 to 4. In the round you never turn your work, so the right side always faces you. That is why the wrong-side rows from the flat version become simple knit rounds here.
A small note: you may notice slightly different versions of the waffle stitch in different stitch dictionaries, for example ones that use a purl ridge instead of two plain rows. The 4-row version above is the most common, and it is a lovely place to start.
Watch: Free Waffle Stitch Video Tutorial
If you learn best by watching, this free YouTube video walks through the same 4-row repeat: Waffle Stitch Knitting Pattern for Beginners (4 Row Repeat).
Tips for Knitting a Beautiful Waffle Stitch
- Double check your cast on count. For flat knitting, you need a multiple of 3 plus 1. That extra stitch lets the row begin and end in a balanced way.
- Read your knitting on Row 2. On the wrong side, you are simply working the stitches as they appear: purl the stitches that look like purls from this side and knit the ones that look like knits. If your Row 2 does not line up, look back at Row 1.
- Use the plain rows to rest. Rows 3 and 4 are all knit and all purl, which makes them a natural place to count your stitches before starting the next textured rows.
- Swatch first. A small swatch lets you see the texture in your yarn and check that your counts are correct before you begin a larger project.
- Pick yarn to suit the project. For dishcloths that need to be durable and washable, cotton yarn is a popular choice.
Waffle Stitch vs Other Textured Knit Stitches
If you have already tried our guides to the seed stitch and the linen stitch, the waffle stitch is a natural next step. The waffle stitch groups its knits and purls into columns of one knit and two purls, then pairs them with plain rows, creating a larger, more structured grid. It is a lovely way to add depth to simple projects without cables or special techniques.
Not sure what an abbreviation means? Our Knitting Dictionary has you covered, and you can always visit our Help page with questions.
Want to try waffle stitch....but as crochet? Check out The Waffle Throw crochet pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the waffle stitch easy for beginners?
Yes. The waffle stitch uses only knit and purl stitches and repeats over four rows, so it is a great first textured stitch for an advanced beginner.
What multiple do I cast on for the waffle stitch?
For flat knitting, cast on a multiple of 3 plus 1 stitches. For knitting in the round, cast on a multiple of 3.
Does the waffle stitch curl?
No. The waffle stitch lays flat without borders or blocking, which makes it great for dishcloths, scarves, and blankets.
Is the waffle stitch reversible?
Mostly. The two sides look similar but not identical, so either side can face out if you like the texture.