Caterpillar Stitch [Knitting Stitch]

Caterpillar Stitch is a cousin of the Little Ladders Stitch, which was featured this week in the Summer Stitch Sampler Knit Along. This simple pattern of knits and purls is named for its look, which is reminiscent of an adorable little caterpillar wriggling along your fabric.

You’ll notice that the vertical lines that appeared while working the Little Ladders Stitch do not exist with this stitch. This is because there are no continuous columns of knit stitches; all are interrupted by purls.

This stitch is easy to work and can easily be mastered by beginning knitters. It is best used as an allover pattern over a relatively large area of fabric, such as sweaters and afghans. The detail does not emerge as clearly in smaller areas.

Caterpillar Stitch

This stitch is worked in multiples of 6 stitches across 4 rows.

The pictured swatch is 24 stitches wide and was knit with Caron Simply Soft yarn in Off-White.

Abbreviations Used

k – knit
p – purl

Pattern

When working flat (back and forth), use the following pattern:

Row 1 – *k3, p3*
Row 2 – p all
Row 3 – *p3, k3*
Row 4 – p all

When working in the round, use the following pattern:

Row 1 – *k3, p3*
Row 2 – k all
Row 3 – *p3, k3*
Row 4 – k all

Caterpillar Stitch Chart

How are you using this stitch? Share your pics!