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.

Table of Contents
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.

Watch Video Tutorial
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.

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.

Printable Knitting Instructions

Printable Knitting Pattern
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
- Row 1 (Right Side): Knit All
- Row 2 (Wrong Side): Knit All
- Row 3: Knit All
- Row 4: Knit All
- Row 5: * K1, YO 2x *, K1
- Row 6: * K1, Drop 2 ST *, K1
_____
IN THE ROUND ON CIRCULAR NEEDLES:
- Row 1 (Right Side): Knit All
- Row 2: Purl All
- Row 3: Knit All
- Row 4: Purl All
- Row 5: * K1, YO 2x *, K1
- 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
- CO = Cast On Long Tail Method
- K = Knit Stitch
- P = Purl Stitch
- YO = Yarn Over
- Bind Off
- Weave in Yarn Tails
- ST = Stitches

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.





