Knit Aster Stitch

Knit Aster Stitch is such a pretty, summery stitch that looks a lot more complicated than it is. Worked over a multiple of 6 stitches +1 and 9 rows, the stitch resembles flowers framed by garter stitch. Perfect for throws, scarves, shawls it also makes an interesting border on a plain cardigan or pullover.

Knit here in ColourSpun Pure Cotton DK on 4mm knitting needles, it works just as well with any weight yarn. Worked in one colour it creates interesting texture but using 2 will show up the flower pattern beautifully. I used a plain colour for the garter stitch rows and a multi-dyed Unique for the flowers.

You will need

ColourSpun yarn of your choice in at least 2 colours – background (1) and flowers (2)

Needles to suit your yarn.

Abbreviations

C/on cast on
C/off cast off
K knit
K2tog knit the next 2 stitches together
L left hand
P5tog purl the next 5 stitches together
R right hand
Sl Slip the next stitch/es
St/s stitch/es
WS wrong side
YO yarn over

Instructions

Using COLOUR 1, c/on a multiple of 6 sts + 1

Row 1

Knit (WS)

Row 2

Join COLOUR 2:
Sl1; [(wrapping yarn around needle twice, K1) x 5; Sl1] to end

Row 3

Sl1; (Sl5 to R needle, dropping extra wraps; Sl5 back to L needle; P5tog, keep on needle; YO; P5tog, keep on needle; YO; P5tog; Sl1) to end

Row 4

COLOUR 1:
K1; (K5; insert L needle under strand at back of work, K2tog) to last 6 sts; K6

Row 5

Knit

Row 6

COLOUR 2:
Sl4; [(wrapping yarn around needle twice, K1) x 5; Sl1] to last 3 sts; Sl3

Row 7

SL4; (Sl5 to R needle, dropping extra wraps; Sl5 back to L needle; P5tog, keep on needle; YO; P5tog, keep on needle; YO; P5tog; Sl1) to last 3 sts; sl3

Row 8

COLOUR 1:
K3; insert L needle under strand at back of work, K2tog; (K5; insert L needle under strand at back of work, K2tog) to last 3 sts; K3

Row 9

Knit

Repeat Rows 2-9 until you reach your required length. C/off

Other Stitch Patterns

Because you chose Knit Aster Stitch, we have added links below to a few more Stitches you may like

Bubble Stitch

Dimple Stitch

Related Products

This Knit Aster Stitch swatch was made using Pure Cotton – DK but would work equally well with any of our large range of Natural Yarns

Pure Cotton DK

Natural Yarns and Fibre

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Knit Aster Stitch?
Knit Aster Stitch is a pretty, textured knitting pattern that creates flower shapes framed by garter stitch ridges. Although it looks complicated, it is much more straightforward than it appears, since the nine row repeat follows a clear and consistent sequence.

What is the stitch multiple for Knit Aster Stitch?
Cast on a multiple of 6 stitches plus 1. Since the flower motif is worked over groups of 6 stitches, any multiple of 6 plus the additional stitch will give a balanced, even result across any project width.

Do I need two colours for Knit Aster Stitch?
Although the stitch works in a single colour and creates interesting texture, using two colours shows the flower pattern most beautifully. A plain colour works well for the garter stitch rows, while a multi-dyed or variegated yarn in the flower rows adds wonderful depth and detail.

What skill level is needed for Knit Aster Stitch?
Because the pattern involves wrapping yarn twice around the needle and working multiple stitches together, it is best suited to an intermediate knitter. However, since the repeat is consistent once the first pattern sequence is understood, it becomes easier with each subsequent repeat.

What yarn works well for Knit Aster Stitch?
Pure Cotton DK was used for this sample on 4mm needles, since a smooth yarn shows the flower detail most clearly. However, because the stitch works with any yarn weight, heavier yarns give a cosier result while finer yarns produce a more delicate, lacy effect.

What can I make with Knit Aster Stitch?
Because it creates such a decorative, summery fabric, Knit Aster Stitch is ideal for throws, scarves, and shawls. It also works beautifully as a border or accent panel on a plain cardigan or pullover, since the flower pattern adds visual interest without overwhelming the overall design.