Jacklien Fernendus
Author for handknitty.com
I have worked in the knitting industry for the past 15 years. When I was a child, my grandma used to knit and enjoy spending time with them on an easy chair in the winter to keep them warm and occupied. Now that I work in the modern knitting & Fashion industry, I see the same fascination in my 4-year-old daughter’s eyes when seeing me working.
Lace knit with pattern
How to knit lace with pattern
Knitting lace with a pattern can seem intimidating, but with a little practice and patience, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some general steps you can follow:
Choose your pattern: There are many lace knitting patterns available online and in knitting books. Look for one that suits your skill level and the type of project you want to make. Some patterns may be written out row by row, while others may use charts to show the lace pattern.
Choose your yarn and needles: Lace knitting often uses a finer weight yarn and smaller needles than other knitting projects. You’ll want to choose a yarn that shows the stitch definition of the lace pattern and needles that will give you a tight gauge. Lace patterns often look best in solid or semi-solid yarns, rather than variegated or heavily textured yarns that can obscure the lace pattern.
Practice the stitches: Lace knitting often involves increases and decreases, yarnovers, and sometimes other techniques like twisted stitches or double yarnovers. Before starting the pattern, practice these stitches on a swatch to ensure you’re comfortable with them.
Read the pattern: Carefully read through the pattern before starting to knit. Make sure you understand the lace stitches and any special instructions, such as how to repeat the pattern or how to work the edges.
Mark your pattern: As you work the lace pattern, it can be helpful to place stitch markers at the beginning and end of the lace section or between repeats of the pattern. This will help you keep track of where you are in the pattern and avoid mistakes.
Be patient: Lace knitting can be slow-going, especially if you’re using fine yarn and small needles. Take your time and don’t be discouraged if you need to rip out a section and start again.
Block your finished project: Blocking is an important step in lace knitting that helps to even out the stitches and open up the lace pattern. Follow the blocking instructions for your yarn to achieve the best results.
Remember that knitting lace with a pattern takes practice, so don’t be afraid to start with a simple pattern and work your way up to more complex ones as you gain experience.
how to incorporate edges into knit lace patterns
Incorporating edges into a knit lace pattern can add a polished and professional touch to your finished project. Here are some steps to follow:
Choose your edge: There are many types of edges that can be incorporated into a lace pattern, such as garter stitch borders, seed stitch borders, picot edges, or even a simple rolled edge. Consider the overall look and feel of your lace pattern and choose an edge that complements it.
Add the edge stitches: Depending on the edge you choose, you may need to add additional stitches to your cast-on or to the beginning and end of each row. For example, if you’re adding a garter stitch border, you may want to cast on a multiple of the number of stitches required for the lace pattern plus an additional two stitches for each edge. Then, on every row, knit the first and last two stitches to create the garter stitch border.
Incorporate the edge into the lace pattern: Once you’ve established your edge stitches, you can begin incorporating them into your lace pattern. For example, you might work the edge stitches in garter stitch while the lace pattern is worked in stockinette stitch.
Pay attention to stitch counts: It’s important to keep track of your stitch counts as you work the edge and lace pattern together. Make sure you’re not accidentally adding or dropping stitches as you transition between the edge and the lace pattern.
Block your finished project: As with any lace knitting project, blocking is an important step to help open up the lace pattern and even out the stitches. Pay particular attention to the edges, making sure they lie flat and look neat.
Incorporating an edge into a knit lace pattern may require some extra planning and attention, but the results can be well worth the effort. With practice, you’ll be able to add edges to your lace patterns with ease.
how to knit a lace pattern in the round
Knitting lace patterns in the round is slightly different than knitting them flat because you’re always working on the right side of the fabric. Here are some general steps to follow:
Choose your pattern: Look for a lace pattern that’s written or charted for working in the round. Some patterns may need to be adapted from flat to in the round, so make sure you’re clear on any modifications needed.
Choose your needles and yarn: Select a yarn and needles that work well with your chosen pattern. Lace patterns often look best in finer weight yarns and smaller needles, which will give you a tighter gauge and help to define the lace stitches.
Cast on: Cast on the required number of stitches for your pattern, making sure to join in the round and being careful not to twist your stitches.
Work the pattern: Follow the lace pattern as written or charted, working all rounds from the right side. Keep in mind that since you’re working in the round, you won’t be purling any stitches, so you’ll need to modify the pattern to work only knit stitches if necessary.
Pay attention to stitch markers: Since you won’t be turning your work, it can be helpful to place stitch markers to help you keep track of the beginning and end of the round, as well as any pattern repeats.
Check your gauge: Lace patterns can be a bit trickier to measure for gauge, but it’s still important to make sure your finished project will be the right size. You may want to work a swatch in the round before starting your project to get an accurate gauge.
Block your finished project: Blocking is an important step in lace knitting that helps to even out the stitches and open up the lace pattern. Follow the blocking instructions for your yarn to achieve the best results.
Knitting a lace pattern in the round can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful lace projects.
how to knit a starfish lace pattern stitch
The starfish lace pattern stitch is a beautiful and intricate lace pattern that can be used to create a variety of knitting projects, such as shawls, scarves, or even blankets. Here are the steps to knit the starfish lace pattern stitch:
Cast on a multiple of 14 stitches, plus 1 additional stitch for the edge.
Row 1 (right side): K1 (edge), *yo, ssk, k1, k2tog, yo, k1, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k2, repeat from * to last stitch, k1 (edge).
Row 2 (and all even-numbered rows): Purl all stitches.
Row 3: K1 (edge), *yo, ssk, k3, k2tog, yo, k3, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k2, repeat from * to last stitch, k1 (edge).
Row 5: K1 (edge), *yo, ssk, k5, k2tog, yo, k5, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k2, repeat from * to last stitch, k1 (edge).
Row 7: K1 (edge), *yo, ssk, k7, k2tog, yo, k7, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k2, repeat from * to last stitch, k1 (edge).
Row 8: Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-8 until your project reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Slip slip knit (ssk): Slip the next two stitches as if to knit, then insert the left-hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
Pass slipped stitch over (psso): Slip the next stitch from the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle without knitting it, then insert the left-hand needle into the slipped stitch from the back and pass it over the last knit stitch.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit the starfish lace pattern stitch with ease.
how to knit multi color lace shawl patterns
Knitting a multi-color lace shawl can seem like a daunting task, but with some preparation and planning, it can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are the steps to knit a multi-color lace shawl pattern:
Choose your pattern: Look for a lace shawl pattern that incorporates multiple colors. You can find patterns on knitting websites or in knitting books and magazines.
Choose your yarn: Select yarns in colors that you like and that work well together. Make sure to choose yarns that are the same weight and fiber content to ensure that they knit up evenly. If you’re not sure which colors to choose, you can experiment by holding the yarns together to see how they look.
Swatch: Knit a swatch using your chosen yarns and lace pattern to make sure that the gauge is consistent and that the colors work well together. This will also give you a chance to practice the lace pattern before you start the shawl.
Plan your color changes: Determine where you want to change colors in the pattern. You may want to create a gradient effect by gradually changing the colors from one end of the shawl to the other, or you may want to create a more random pattern of color changes.
Knit your shawl: Follow the lace pattern as written, changing colors as desired. You may want to use stitch markers to help you keep track of where to change colors.
Block your shawl: Once you’ve finished knitting your shawl, block it to even out the stitches and open up the lace pattern. Follow the blocking instructions for your yarn to achieve the best results.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to knit a beautiful multi-color lace shawl. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different color combinations and lace patterns.
how to knit avy lace knitting pattern
The Avy Lace knitting pattern is a beautiful and intricate lace pattern that can be used to create a variety of knitting projects, such as shawls, scarves, or even sweaters. Here are the steps to knit the Avy Lace knitting pattern:
Note: This pattern requires knitting knowledge of yarnovers, knit2together, and slip-slip-knit.
Cast on a multiple of 6 stitches plus 2 additional stitches for the edges.
Row 1 (right side): K1 (edge), *yo, k2, sl1-k2tog-psso, k2, yo, k1, repeat from * to last stitch, k1 (edge).
Row 2 (and all even-numbered rows): Purl all stitches.
Row 3: K1 (edge), *k1, yo, k2, sl1-k2tog-psso, k2, yo, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2 (edge).
Row 5: K1 (edge), *k2, yo, k2, sl1-k2tog-psso, yo, k3, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2 (edge).
Row 7: K1 (edge), *k3, yo, sl1-k2tog-psso, yo, k4, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2 (edge).
Row 8: Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-8 until your project reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Slip-slip-knit (ssk): Slip the next two stitches knitwise, insert the left-hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit the Avy Lace knitting pattern with ease. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process, as lace knitting can be a very rewarding and relaxing activity.
how to knit broomstick lace pattern
Broomstick lace is a beautiful and unique knitting technique that creates a lacy, openwork pattern. Here are the steps to knit a broomstick lace pattern:
Materials:
A crochet hook in a size that matches your knitting needle size
A large knitting needle or dowel (broomstick)
Instructions:
Cast on an even number of stitches.
Knit the first row.
Slide the stitches off the needle onto the crochet hook.
Insert the crochet hook under the first two stitches on the hook.
Yarn over the hook and pull a loop through the two stitches.
Slide the loop off the crochet hook and onto the knitting needle or dowel.
Repeat steps 4-6 across the entire row, until all the stitches have been transferred to the knitting needle or dowel.
Once all stitches have been transferred, slide the stitches back onto the knitting needle.
Knit the second row.
Repeat steps 3-9 until your project reaches the desired length.
Tips:
The size of the dowel or knitting needle you use will determine the size of the loops in your pattern. A larger dowel or needle will create larger loops, while a smaller one will create smaller loops.
When transferring the loops to the dowel, make sure to slide them down the dowel to create an even pattern.
Experiment with different types of yarn to create different textures and effects in your broomstick lace pattern.
With these instructions and a little practice, you’ll be able to knit a beautiful broomstick lace pattern. Happy knitting!
how to knit diamond lace pattern
The diamond lace pattern is a beautiful and intricate lace pattern that can be used to create a variety of knitting projects, such as shawls, scarves, or even blankets. Here are the steps to knit the diamond lace pattern:
Note: This pattern requires knitting knowledge of yarnovers, knit2together, and slip-slip-knit.
Cast on a multiple of 10 stitches plus 1 additional stitch for the edge.
Row 1 (right side): K1 (edge), *yo, k4, sl1-k2tog-psso, k4, yo, k1 (edge).
Row 2 and all even numbered rows: Purl all stitches.
Row 3: K1 (edge), *k1, yo, k3, sl1-k2tog-psso, k3, yo, k2 (edge).
Row 5: K1 (edge), *k2, yo, k2, sl1-k2tog-psso, k2, yo, k3 (edge).
Row 7: K1 (edge), *k3, yo, k1, sl1-k2tog-psso, k1, yo, k4 (edge).
Row 9: K1 (edge), *k4, yo, sl1-k2tog-psso, yo, k5 (edge).
Row 10: Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-10 until your project reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Slip-slip-knit (ssk): Slip the next two stitches knitwise, insert the left-hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit the diamond lace pattern with ease. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process, as lace knitting can be a very rewarding and relaxing activity.
how to knit different lace patterns
There are countless lace patterns that you can knit, each with its own unique look and feel. Here are some general tips for knitting different lace patterns:
Choose a pattern: Browse knitting books or websites to find a lace pattern that you like. Some popular lace patterns include feather and fan, horseshoe lace, and leaf lace.
Read the pattern: Before you start knitting, read the pattern carefully and make sure you understand the instructions. Pay attention to the stitch count, yarnovers, decreases, and any special instructions.
Practice the stitches: If the pattern includes stitches that you’re not familiar with, practice them before you start the project. This will help you get comfortable with the stitches and ensure that you’re knitting the pattern correctly.
Use stitch markers: To help keep track of your stitches, use stitch markers to mark the beginning and end of each pattern repeat.
Check your gauge: Lace patterns can be very stretchy, so make sure to check your gauge before you start knitting. This will help ensure that your finished project turns out the correct size.
Block your project: After you’ve finished knitting your lace project, block it to help open up the lace and create a more defined pattern. Wet blocking is usually the best method for lace knitting.
Have fun: Lace knitting can be challenging, but it’s also a lot of fun! Enjoy the process and take your time, and you’ll end up with a beautiful finished project.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to knit a variety of lace patterns and create beautiful, intricate projects. Just remember to be patient, practice your stitches, and have fun!
how to knit easy lace pattern
If you’re new to lace knitting or just looking for an easy lace pattern to try, there are many simple lace patterns that you can knit. Here’s an easy lace pattern that you can try:
Cast on a multiple of 6 stitches plus 1 additional stitch for the edge.
Row 1 (right side): K1 (edge), *k2, yo, k2tog, k2 (repeat from * to last stitch), k1 (edge).
Row 2 and all even numbered rows: Purl all stitches.
Row 3: K1 (edge), *k1, k2tog, yo, k1, yo, sl1-k2tog-psso, k1 (repeat from * to last stitch), k1 (edge).
Row 5: K1 (edge), *k2tog, yo, k3, yo, sl1-k2tog-psso (repeat from * to last stitch), k1 (edge).
Row 7: K1 (edge), *k1, sl1-k2tog-psso, yo, k3, yo, k1 (repeat from * to last stitch), k1 (edge).
Row 9: K1 (edge), *k2, sl1-k2tog-psso, yo, k1, yo, k2 (repeat from * to last stitch), k1 (edge).
Row 10: Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-10 until your project reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Slip-slip-knit (ssk): Slip the next two stitches knitwise, insert the left-hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit an easy lace pattern with a beautiful, delicate look. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process, and you’ll end up with a lovely finished project.
how to knit eyelet lace pattern
Eyelet lace is a simple and beautiful lace pattern that is perfect for knitting shawls, scarves, and other lightweight accessories. Here’s how to knit an eyelet lace pattern:
Cast on an even number of stitches.
Row 1 (right side): *K1, yo, k2tog, repeat from * to end of row.
Row 2 (wrong side): Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 until your project reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
Purl: Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch from the front to the back, then wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front and pull it through the stitch, dropping the old stitch off the left-hand needle.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit a simple but elegant eyelet lace pattern. Experiment with different yarns and needle sizes to create different looks and textures. Enjoy the process and have fun knitting!
how to knit fishnet lace pattern
Fishnet lace is a simple and open lace pattern that creates a net-like texture. Here’s how to knit a basic fishnet lace pattern:
Cast on a multiple of 4 stitches.
Row 1 (right side): *K2, yo, k2tog, repeat from * to end of row.
Row 2 (wrong side): Purl all stitches.
Row 3: *K2tog, yo, k2, repeat from * to end of row.
Row 4: Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-4 until your project reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
Purl: Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch from the front to the back, then wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front and pull it through the stitch, dropping the old stitch off the left-hand needle.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit a simple but lovely fishnet lace pattern. Experiment with different yarns and needle sizes to create different looks and textures. Enjoy the process and have fun knitting!
how to knit lace edging pattern
Lace edging is a beautiful way to finish off a knitting project, such as a shawl or a scarf. Here’s how to knit a basic lace edging pattern:
Cast on a multiple of 6 stitches plus 3 stitches.
Row 1 (right side): K1, *yo, k2tog, k2, ssk, yo, k1, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, yo, k2tog.
Row 2 (wrong side): Purl all stitches.
Row 3: K2, *yo, k2tog, k1, ssk, yo, k3, repeat from * to last 5 stitches, yo, k2tog, k1, ssk, yo, k2.
Row 4: Purl all stitches.
Repeat rows 1-4 until the edging reaches the desired length.
Bind off all stitches.
Here are some key stitches used in this pattern:
Yarn over (yo): Bring the yarn to the front of the work, then over the right-hand needle and to the back of the work again, creating an extra stitch.
Knit two together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle through the next two stitches as if to knit, then knit them together.
Slip slip knit (ssk): Slip the next two stitches knitwise one at a time, then insert the left-hand needle into the front of the two slipped stitches and knit them together through the back loop.
Purl: Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch from the front to the back, then wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front and pull it through the stitch, dropping the old stitch off the left-hand needle.
By following these steps and using these key stitches, you’ll be able to knit a beautiful and delicate lace edging pattern. Experiment with different yarns and needle sizes to create different looks and textures. Enjoy the process and have fun knitting!
how to knit lace pattern scarves
Knitting a lace pattern scarf can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are some steps to help you get started:
Choose a lace pattern: Look for lace stitch patterns that you find appealing and would like to incorporate into your scarf. You can find lace stitch patterns in knitting stitch dictionaries or online resources.
Choose your yarn and needles: Lace patterns typically look best with lightweight yarns such as fingering, lace or sport weight, and smaller needles. However, you can experiment with different yarn weights and needle sizes to create different effects.
Swatch: Before starting your scarf, knit a small swatch in your chosen pattern to check your gauge and see how the stitch pattern looks with your chosen yarn and needles.
Cast on: Depending on your pattern, cast on the required number of stitches.
Begin knitting the pattern: Follow the instructions for your chosen lace pattern, making sure to keep track of your stitch count and any stitch repeats.
Add a border: You can add a simple garter stitch border to your scarf to help prevent curling, or a lace border to complement your pattern.
Bind off: When you’ve reached your desired length, bind off your stitches.
Block your scarf: Blocking your scarf will help even out your stitches and open up the lace pattern. Wet block your scarf by soaking it in cool water, squeezing out the excess water, and laying it flat to dry.
Some tips for knitting lace pattern scarves:
Use stitch markers to keep track of stitch repeats and to help you avoid making mistakes.
If you’re new to lace knitting, start with a simple pattern and work your way up to more complex patterns.
When knitting lace, it’s important to keep your tension consistent. Pay attention to your tension as you knit and adjust as needed.
Lace patterns are often more open and delicate than other types of knitting, so be gentle when handling your work to avoid snagging or pulling out stitches.
With some patience and practice, you’ll be able to knit a beautiful lace pattern scarf that you’ll be proud to wear or give as a gift.
how to knit mini lace heart pattern
Knitting a mini lace heart pattern is a fun and easy project that can be used to embellish a variety of knitting projects. Here’s how to knit a simple mini lace heart pattern:
Materials:
Small amount of yarn in a color of your choice
Set of double-pointed needles (DPNs) in the appropriate size for your yarn
Instructions:
Cast on 3 stitches on one DPN.
Row 1: Knit all 3 stitches.
Row 2: K1, yo, k1, yo, k1.
Row 3: Slip 1 stitch as if to knit, k2tog, psso (pass the slipped stitch over the k2tog), turn.
Row 4: Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, p2tog, psso, turn.
Row 5: K2tog, yo, k1, yo, ssk.
Row 6: Bind off all stitches knitwise.
Repeat steps 1-6 to create a second mini lace heart.
Once you have created your mini lace hearts, you can use them to embellish a variety of knitting projects such as hats, scarves, or even as appliques on clothing.
Tips:
Gauge is not important for this project, so you can use any yarn weight and corresponding needle size you like.
If you want to make larger or smaller hearts, you can adjust the number of stitches you cast on and follow the same basic pattern.
To make the hearts more symmetrical, try blocking them gently after knitting.
This pattern can be modified by adding additional rows to create a longer heart or by using different lace stitch patterns