Drop Stitch Garter Knitting Pattern

The Drop Stitch Garter Pattern creates an airy, lightweight fabric with beautiful texture and movement. It’s a relaxing stitch pattern that looks especially lovely for scarves, wraps, and shawls, but you can also get creative with garments like breezy sweaters and dresses.

Below, you’ll find the written knitting instructions for working this stitch pattern both flat and in the round and my step-by-step video tutorial.

Knitting Instructions

Cast On any number of stitches.

Rows 1 – 4:  Knit All
Simply knit the garter stitch for four rows.

Row 5: * K1, YO 2x *, K1
Knit one stitch, yarn over twice. Repeat this pattern to the last stitch on your needle, then knit once more.

Row 6: * K1, Drop 2 ST *, K1
Knit one stitch then drop two stitches. Repeat to the last stitch on your needle, then knit once more.

Continue this pattern until your piece is the length you desire. It is recommended to repeat rows one through four before binding off.

    Close-up side view of the Garter Drop Stitch knitting pattern in bright pink yarn color.

    Watch Video Tutorial

    • VERY POSSIBLE TO MASTER THIS STITCH

      “I’m going to try it immediately. And I think I’ll succeed, because your video makes it seem very possible to master this stitch. It was great to see the pattern on the side as you worked. Thank you for another wonderful video!”
      Virginia W.

    About the Drop Stitch Garter Knitting Pattern

    In knitting, dropping stitches is usually something we try to avoid. In this pattern, however, we intentionally drop stitches to create elongated rows and an open, flowing design. It’s a simple technique that creates an impressive result.

    It is great for your Summer Knitting because it has wonderful breathability.

    Row Repeat

    Knit up the Drop Stitch in a simple 6-row repeat.

    Stitch Techniques

    A series of easy knits and purls, along with yarn-overs create the open weave pattern.

    Is it Easy to Memorize?

    Yes, since the first two rows are the garter stitch, it is easy to remember that the last two rows simply yarn-overs and intentionally dropped stitches.

    Right and Wrong sides of the Garter Drop Stitch knitting pattern in bright pink yarn color on wooden needle.

    Reversible Stitch

    This is a reversible pattern, meaning that both sides of your work, the right and wrong sides, are identical. This makes a great choice for items like scarves, shawls, and blankets since both sides are similar.

    Lays Flat

    It is a favorite stitch choice because this pattern easily lays flat. Blocking your work helps the dropped stitches look smooth and neat.

    Side view of Garter Drop Stitch knitting texture in white yarn color.

    Printable Knitting Instructions

    Garter Drop Stitch knitting texture in white yarn color.

    Printable Knitting Pattern

    The Drop Stitch Garter Knitting Pattern is a 6-Row Repeat pattern.
    Makes: Drop Stitch Garter Knitting
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Active Time: 2 hours
    Additional Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
    Difficulty: Intermediate

    Materials

    • Yarn in any weight, fiber, & color of your choice

    Tools

    • Knitting Needles - Appropriate Size for Yarn
    • Tapestry Needle
    • Scissors

    Instructions

    KNITTED FLAT ON STRAIGHT NEEDLES:

    Cast On: Any Number of Stitches

    1. Row 1 (Right Side):  Knit All
    2. Row 2 (Wrong Side): Knit All
    3. Row 3: Knit All
    4. Row 4: Knit All
    5. Row 5: * K1, YO 2x *, K1
    6. Row 6: * K1, Drop 2 ST *, K1

    _____

    IN THE ROUND ON CIRCULAR NEEDLES:

    1. Row 1 (Right Side):  Knit All
    2. Row 2: Purl All
    3. Row 3: Knit All
    4. Row 4: Purl All
    5. Row 5: * K1, YO 2x *, K1
    6. Row 6: * P1, Drop 2 ST *, P1

    Notes

    Repeat Rows 1 – 6 until your piece is the length you desire

    Repeat pattern between the * * asterisks

    Reversible Knit Stitch Pattern

    6-Row Repeat

    _____

    Knitting Techniques

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    Kristen McDonnell
    Author • Designer • Teacher

    Kristen from StudioKnit LLC produces knitting video lessons and pattern designs from her vibrant production studio on Half Moon Bay’s California coast.

    Kristen McDonnell is the author of the highly acclaimed book Knit Stitch: 50 Knit + Purl Patterns featuring vintage and unique designs.