Jan 13 (edited) • Monthly Knitting Stitches
January - Knotted Openwork
The Knotted Openwork stitch is a multiple of 3. Four rows repeated form the pattern. Enjoy!
The Knotted Openwork Stitch is a beautiful lace pattern that creates a series of small, "knotted" clusters separated by delicate eyelets. Because it is a 4-row repeat based on multiples of 3, it is easy to memorize while providing a sophisticated, airy texture.
Here are the best applications for using the Knotted Openwork Stitch in your projects:
1. Lightweight Wraps and Shawls
This is the most popular use for openwork stitches. The "knots" provide enough substance to keep the shawl from feeling like a spiderweb, while the eyelets allow for a beautiful drape.
- Spring Scarves: Perfect for transitioning between seasons when you want a pop of texture without the bulk of a solid stitch.
- Rectangular Stoles: The geometric repetition of the knots makes for a very clean, professional-looking edge on long wraps.
2. Summer Apparel
The breathability of the knotted eyelets makes this stitch ideal for warmer weather garments.
- Beach Cover-ups: Work this in a cotton or linen blend for a breezy, quick-drying fabric.
- Tee-Shirt Inserts: Instead of knitting an entire garment in openwork, use it as a decorative panel down the center of a sweater or as a lace detail on the sleeves.
3. Home Linens
The "knotted" texture provides a vintage, heirloom feel that looks stunning in home decor.
- Decorative Table Runners: The openwork allows the color of the table to peek through, creating a layered look.
- Guest Towel Edgings: Adding a few inches of Knotted Openwork to the end of a plain knit hand towel elevates it into a gift-worthy item.
4. Layering Pieces
- Market Bags: While it is an open stitch, the "knots" add structural integrity. If worked in a sturdy twine or mercerized cotton, it makes for a stylish, stretchy bag for produce.
- Cardigan Vests: An openwork vest can be worn over a solid dress or blouse to add visual interest without adding significant heat.
Pro-Tips for Knotted Openwork
- Managing Tension: Row 4 often involves yarn overs at the beginning and end of repeats. If you find your eyelets are becoming too loose or "gappy," follow Tracy’s advice and drop one of the adjacent yarn overs to tighten the fabric.
- Blocking is Key: Lace stitches like this one often look "scrunched" on the needles. To truly see the "knots" and the openwork, you must wet-block your finished piece to open up the eyelets.
- Avoid Rolling: To keep your swatch or project flat, start and end with two rows of K1, P1 ribbing and add a couple of edge stitches (like a garter stitch border) on both sides.
Are you planning to use a specific type of yarn for this, or are you just practicing the swatch for now?
3
6 comments
January - Knotted Openwork
powered by
skool.com/a-river-of-yarn-8378
A learning community created for knitters, crocheters, & fibre lovers who want to grow their skills, confidence, and creativity—one stitch at a time.
Suggested communities
Powered by