Smocking Narrow
About this stitch
Smocking Narrow is a 8-stitch × 6-row knit-purl pattern that produces a quietly textured fabric. Reads well in worsted-weight wool.
An all-over textured stitch is the kindest fabric for a long-tail project — blanket, throw, scarf, sweater body — because mistakes blend into the texture.
Further reading A primer on swatching Textured Knit-Purl for accurate gauge.
Stitch chart
Read RS rows right-to-left, WS rows left-to-right. The bottom-right cell is row 1, stitch 1.
Row-by-row written instructions
- Cast on a multiple of 8 sts + 1.
- Follow the chart for 6 rows.
- Block lightly with steam to set the texture without flattening it.
Abbreviations used
- k knit
- p purl
- MB make bobble
Knitter's tips
- Steam-block, do not aggressively wet-block, to preserve the relief.
- Use a smooth plied yarn for crisp texture; halo will obscure the pattern.
Editor's pick Why every knitter should keep a swatch journal.
Recommended materials
This stitch is most flattering in Worsted-weight yarn on 7 (4.5 mm) needles, at a working gauge near 20 stitches and 28 rows over four inches in stockinette. Open the yarn weight reference or the needle conversion chart for substitutions.