How to Read and Follow a Knitting Pattern: A Beginner’s Guide

After you’ve figured out the basic knitting skills like the knit and purl stitches, casting on and off, and increasing and decreasing the number of stitches on your needles, it’s time to make something useful. This is the time when you’ll first start looking at knitting patterns. How to read and follow a knitting pattern is at first, and perhaps for a while afterwards, a bit overwhelming. This is normal.

As is the case with most new skills and hobbies, it takes time to get familiar with the way things are done, figure out the unfamiliar terms and understand just how a knitting pattern is laid out

The good news is that once you understand how a knitting pattern is laid out and what each section tells you’ll feel much more relaxed about working your way through them.

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In this guide, I’ll break a knitting pattern down into the parts that each one normally has, and explain what each section means. After reading through this guide you should be able to confidently pick up your pattern and make sense of what it tells you. This means that you’ll be able to more confidently follow each step to the successful completion of your project

What is a Knitting Pattern?

A knitting pattern is a set of instructions that help you to make the knitted item. I like to think of it as being similar to a recipe in cooking. The recipe tells you what ingredients you need and the method to prepare the meal. Similarly, a pattern will tell you what yarn, how much of it, the needles you need, and the steps to take – row by row – to make up the item.

Standard Structure to a Pattern

Most patterns have a standard structure to them in that they will have more or less the same sections. At the top of the pattern, you’ll find sections such as the materials required, the gauge, sizing and a list of the abbreviations used in the pattern. After these sections, you will come to the main body of the pattern – a row-by-row list of what to do.

We’ll look at these parts to help you understand what each is all about.

Essential Abbreviations and Symbols

Abbreviations

One section that is always in a pattern is the abbreviations. Most knitting abbreviations are standard, but some designers might have a slightly different way of adding them to a pattern. To make it easy to follow exactly what they mean, they include a small section that is a key to their abbreviations. When you are working through the pattern and see an abbreviation that you are not 100 percent sure of, you can refer to this area.

There is often more than one way to do a certain stitch in knitting. Designers often explain how they want users to use that skill in their design. For example, a SSK can be done in different ways. So you’ll see an explanation of that in a pattern if the designer feels it has to be done in one way to achieve the effect they want for that particular project.

Here are some common abbreviations you’ll encounter in beginner-friendly patterns:

• K – Knit
• P – Purl
• CO – Cast On (adding stitches to your needle at the start of a project)
• BO – Bind Off (finishing off stitches at the end of a project)
• st(s) – Stitch(es)
• rep – Repeat
• yo -Yarn Over (a technique that adds an extra stitch, often used in lace or decorative patterns)
• k2tog – Knit Two Together (a decrease stitch that combines two stitches into one)
• DK – double knitting or light worsted weight yarn
• LH – left hand
• RH – right hand
• RS – right side
• St st. – stockinette or stocking stitch (knit the RS rows and purl the wrong side WS rows)

Symbols

You’ll also find symbols in some knitting patterns especially if there is a chart included. Charts are a visual way to show how a project can be done. The chart will show each row and symbols on them will dictate what stitch is to be done at each point in the row. For example, a chart may show an “O” and that might mean you need to do a yarn over at that point. A slash could mean that you need to decrease.

After some practice charts and the use of symbols can make following a complex pattern much easier. I prefer to work from a chart than read rows and rows of written instructions.

It is a good idea to have a small notebook dedicated to your knitting in which you make a note of common abbreviations and symbols that you come across. In time and after completing a few projects you’ll find you don’t need to refer to that book so often anymore.

Materials Section

In this part, you’ll find a list of all the yarn and needle sizes as well as any other equipment you need to do the project. This might be stitch markers and other items like safety eyes if you’re making a toy. You will be told how much yarn is needed and also the recommended brand and colours too. Of course, it is your choice as to which colours you use but to be sure it will turn out as it should you need to stick to the weight of yarn that is recommended. If you change the yarn from a double knitting weight to an Aran then the size of the item you’re making might be affected. If it’s a toy that is not so crucial but when making a garment it needs to fit.

Gauge or Tension

Gauge is a term that in knitting circles refers to the number of stitches and rows a piece of knitting has in an inch or 2.5 cm.

Gauge is important when you want to make sure that your knitting will match exactly with what the designer used. It is crucial to get gauge so that your project ends up being the right size. Some patterns will have this information under a section called “Tension” and will appear as something like this –

The tension is approximately 22 sts x
28 rows for a 10cm x 10cm square in
stockinette stitch on 3.75mm needles.

It is important to make a gauge swatch before you start the project. So what is a gauge swatch then?

Make a small square of knitting so that you can count the number of stitches and rows in a specified dimension. It is best to make it big enough so that you can measure an area in the middle of it of 10cm by 10cm. Your pattern will generally give instructions for making the swatch.

If the size of the thing you’re making really matters then make sure you knit a swatch. That way you can be sure that the needles and yarn are correct for what you want to make.

Sizing

In this section you’ll be given information about the size of the finished item. If several sizes are available, say for example with a jumper, then you may get a chart with all the information on it. Be careful to check the size is right for you and follow the same size throughout.

Notes

On many patterns you’ll see a section called Notes. This is often where the designer will give a brief summary of how the project is put together, and other key features that they wish the knitter to know. For example, you may be told that

• the project is knitted flat (no circulars needed)
• to use a long tail cast on
• sew the seams using mattress stitch
• list of techniques used in the project (so you can check what skills will be required)

Main Instructions

The main instructions are where the project is detailed row by row. If there are several parts to the project say for example you’re making a jumper, then there will be a section for the back, the front and the sleeves. You will also find instructions on how to do the neck band and to make up the garment – often called Finishing Up / Making Up or Construction.

As I am keen on making knitted toys I find it especially useful if the pattern designer has included an in-depth finishing up section. This helps me get the final look similar to the designer’s image on the pattern.

So I hope you are beginning to see that there’s not a lot of mystery or complexity to a knitting pattern – everything is laid out to help you succeed in that project.

Important Sections on a Knitting Pattern

Importance of Gauge and Swatching

As mentioned in the section above – Standard Structure to a Knitting Pattern – you will now know that gauge is an important section on a knitting pattern.

Some people knit with a tighter tension and others knit more loosely. This means that their project will end up having different sizes. However, if a swatch is knitted and the rows and stitches are counted first, then adjustments can be made so that your knitting matches the gauge recommended.

If you get more stitches in the 10cm swatch it means you knit more tightly so you’ll have to try using slightly bigger needles. If you knit loosely you may find that you get fewer stitches than the recommended gauge and will need to try using smaller needles.

If the size and fit of the project you’re knitting is important then you need to take care about the gauge otherwise that thing you’re making will not fit as it should. All your effort will be wasted. If you are making something such as a blanket and you want it to be a certain size then you’ll also need to get gauge for that too.

I know the feeling when you are keen to get on with a pattern and it seems like it’s such an effort to make that swatch first. It’s boring and an extra step too but imagine sewing up a jumper only to find out that it does not fit the person for whom you made it?

Here’s a quick guide to swatching:

1. You will need to knit a sample also called a swatch to test out your knitting tension.
2. Cast on more stitches than needed for the 4-inch measurement. This is so that you can measure from the centre of your swatch. This will result in a more accurate reading as sometimes the tension at the edges can be looser. Sometimes the edges can curl a bit too.
3. Work in the stitch pattern specified for gauge—often stockinette stitch, but it can vary by pattern so check what it recommends
4. Knit until your swatch is at least but ideally longer than 4 inches long, so you have a complete square to measure.
5. Block the swatch if the pattern calls for it. Some yarns relax or expand when washed, and blocking can affect gauge significantly.
6. Measure your stitches and rows per inch across the centre of the swatch. If it matches the pattern’s gauge, you’re ready to go. If not, adjust your needle size and try again.

Spending time to make a swatch can feel like an extra chore, but it’s an important step you need to take as a knitter. Afterwards, you can knit with confidence, knowing that all your time and effort will lead to a finished piece that fits as it should.

Breaking Down Instructions

The main instructions in a pattern are written row by row, or round by round so you know what to do step by step.

Here are some tips that I have picked up after knitting many projects

Browse through the whole pattern first to get a sense of how it’s going to progress. Take note of how the project is made up – how many pieces you need to make, and any stitches you may not be familiar with so you can do research to learn how to do them.

1. Once you have started Take it One Row at a Time – focus on that only. When I complete a row, I tick it off so I know it was done. Sometimes I would put my knitting down due to an interruption and then when I returned I was not sure where I was up to.
2. Look out for Pattern Repeats – Often in a pattern there will be sections where a certain stitch or pattern is repeated. These areas make parts of the pattern go more quickly.
3. Stitch Counts Many times you will find that at the end of a row the pattern will tell you how many stitches you should have on your needle. Check how many stitches you have and don’t just assume you’re ok – this is one way to find a mistake early on and much easier to rectify than many rows later.
4. Use Stitch Markers as much as possible. They are rings that can be placed at a certain place in your knitting to keep you straight and demarcate parts where something has to be done separately to another part. They can also remind you when a change has to happen.
5. Look Up Unfamiliar Techniques If some technique or stitch is not clear to you then go online to find out how to do it. I find YouTube to be especially helpful when I want to know how to do something or other. Don’t let these unfamiliar stitch skills put you off doing a project – I like to think of them as a way of adding to my knowledge.
6. Knitting requires Patience Don’t expect to get it all at once and the first time as knitting is a skill that needs patience and practice. If something has gone wrong, undo it and re-read the pattern carefully.

Some Tips

Here are some tips that I have picked up along the way

1. Highlight Key Information – Before you start, grab a highlighter or sticky notes and mark the essential details in the pattern, such as your chosen size, the recommended gauge, and any specific stitch counts. If you’re working on a pattern with multiple sizes, highlight the numbers that correspond to your size throughout the instructions. This small step can save you from constantly scanning for the right numbers as you work.
2. Use a Row Counter or Tally System – Keeping track of rows is crucial, especially for patterns that include sections with repeats or shaping. A row counter, whether digital or manual, can be a lifesaver, helping you pick up exactly where you left off. If you don’t have a counter, I have found that jotting row numbers in a dedicated knitting journal helps.
3. Break Down Complex Instructions – Some rows in a pattern might be more intricate, combining several techniques in one step. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try breaking down the row into smaller parts. Write out each step on a separate line, or even read aloud to yourself if it helps. By focusing on one action at a time, you’ll be less likely to get lost in the instructions.
4. Place Stitch Markers for Guidance – Stitch markers can be incredibly helpful for separating pattern sections, repeats, or specific stitch counts. For example, if you’re instructed to work a set of 10 stitches repeatedly across a row, place a marker every 10 stitches to keep track of each section. This makes it easy to catch mistakes early, as you can quickly see if you have the correct number of stitches between markers.
5. Read Ahead Before Starting a Row – Before knitting each row, take a quick glance at the full set of instructions. This way, you’ll have an idea of what’s coming up and can prepare for any tricky parts. If a row involves new techniques or multiple steps, reading ahead can help you get into the right mindset before you begin.
6. Track Your Place with Removable Highlighter Tape or Sticky Notes – Highlighter tape or sticky notes are great for marking your place on written instructions or charts. As you move from one row to the next, simply shift the marker down, so you always know exactly where you left off. This is especially useful for multi-page patterns where it’s easy to lose track.
7. Take Breaks and Check Your Work – Knitting is meant to be enjoyable, so don’t hesitate to take breaks, especially if you’re working on a challenging section. Regularly pause to count your stitches and check your progress to make sure everything is lining up as it should. If something seems off, it’s easier to catch and fix it right away rather than several rows later.
8. Keep Notes as You Go – As you work through the pattern, jot down any adjustments or notes about your process. For example, if you made changes to the number of rows or used a different needle size, writing it down helps you keep track of what you did and can be a lifesaver if you want to recreate or modify the project later.
9. Stay Patient and Kind to Yourself – Remember, learning to follow knitting patterns is a skill that takes time and practice. If you find yourself making mistakes or needing to re-read instructions, that’s all part of the process. Each project will build your confidence and familiarity with the language of patterns, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself following along with ease.

With a few helpful tools and a bit of patience, following along with a knitting pattern can become a natural part of your knitting journey. Each tip here is designed to make the process smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to stay focused on the pleasure of creating something with your own hands.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the most experienced knitters make mistakes, so don’t worry if you find yourself stuck at some point. Knowing what to watch out for can help you avoid some of the most commonly occurring problems. Here are a few mistakes I have been guilty of making in the past.

1. Skipping the Gauge Swatch – It’s tempting to jump straight into your project, but skipping the gauge swatch can lead to unexpected results. If your gauge is off, your project might end up too big or too small. Take the time to make a gauge swatch, especially for garments or fitted pieces. It might feel like an extra step, but it can save you a lot of frustration later.
2. Misreading Abbreviations or Symbols – Patterns rely on abbreviations and symbols, and misinterpreting just one can throw off your entire project. Before you start, familiarize yourself with the abbreviations used in the pattern. Most patterns include a key or legend to help you understand the shorthand, so double-check it if you’re unsure.
3. Losing Track of Rows or Repeats – In patterns with repeated sections, it’s easy to lose track of how many times you’ve repeated a sequence or which row you’re on. Using a row counter, or make notes in a book, or even a simple sticky note can help you keep track. Consistently marking your place is a simple but effective way to stay on course.
4. Not Checking Stitch Counts – Many patterns include stitch counts at the end of each row or section. These counts are there to help you ensure you haven’t accidentally added or dropped a stitch along the way. Checking your stitch count regularly, especially on complex rows, is an excellent habit that helps you catch mistakes early on, rather than several rows later when it’s harder to fix.
5. Confusing Right and Wrong Sides – Patterns often refer to the “right side” (RS) and “wrong side” (WS) of the work. Knowing which side you’re on is important for following instructions accurately. If you find it tricky to remember, you can use a removable stitch marker or safety pin to mark the right side, making it easy to keep track.
6. Ignoring Pattern Notes and Special Instructions – Many patterns include notes at the beginning or within specific sections that clarify or simplify complex instructions. These notes can be a lifesaver, especially for understanding any unique techniques the pattern might call for. Reading these notes before you start and revisiting them as you go can help you avoid confusion.
7. Rushing Through Difficult Sections – Knitting is a skill that requires patience, especially with challenging sections. If you’re working through something tricky, like a complicated stitch pattern or shaping technique, slow down and take it step by step. Trying to rush can lead to mistakes that take longer to fix than just working carefully from the start.

Mistakes are part of the learning process in knitting, so don’t get discouraged if you make a few along the way. By being aware of these common errors and practising mindful habits, you’ll find yourself catching issues early—and avoiding them altogether with time and practice.

Conclusion

Learning to read and follow a knitting pattern is a valuable skill that opens up a whole world of creative possibilities. At first, the abbreviations, symbols, and detailed instructions may seem overwhelming, but with practice, they’ll become second nature. The more you work with patterns, the more confident you’ll feel, and soon, you’ll be ready to tackle increasingly complex projects.

Remember, every project is an opportunity to learn something new, whether it’s understanding gauge, navigating charts, or mastering a tricky stitch pattern. Start with patience, keep your tools handy, and don’t be afraid to take things one step at a time. Knitting is a journey, and every project you complete—mistakes and all—will bring you closer to mastering this timeless craft.

Ready to take on a new project? Look at the Patterns section or hover over the Patterns menu button to see a drop down of the categories in this section.