How to Knit the Diamond Brocade Stitch

The Diamond Brocade stitch creates a beautiful textured fabric, making it an ideal choice for blankets, scarves, and other cozy accessories. This pattern, with its 8-row repeat, provides a manageable challenge for knitters who are comfortable with basic techniques like knit, purl, and simple stitch repeats.

Right side showing of a swatch worked in the diamond brocade stitch pattern.

Skill Level

Skill level easy per the Craft Yarn Council

Beginner:  This is a good stitch pattern for the adventurous beginner.

Skills Needed

  • Knit and Purl stitches
  • Basic knowledge of stitch repeats
  • Ability to follow a multi-row pattern
  • How to Cast On
  • How to Bind Off

Abbreviations

K = Knit stitch

P = Purl stitch

RS = right side

WS = wrong side

* * = Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks, the number of times indicated in the pattern.

Supplies Needed to Work a Practice Swatch

  • Yarn (Solid color is best to show off the stitches.  I used Patons Classic Wool Worsted 
  • Needles:  Appropriate for the yarn you are using (I used US 7 4.5 mm) needles
  • Scissors
  • Yarn Needle for weaving in ends.
  • Stitch markers (optional)

Notes About the Diamond Brocade Stitch

  • It's worked in stitch multiples of 8 + 1, meaning (17,25, 33, etc.)
  • There is an 8-row repeat
  • It does lie flat
  • It is not reversible
The wrong side is showing for the diamond brocade stitch worked in a purple yarnDiamond Brocade Wrong Side

Instructions for Knitting the Diamond Brocade Stitch, Flat

Row 1 (Right Side):  K4, P1, K3 *, K1

Row 2 (Wrong Side): P1, * P2, K1, P1, K1, P3 *

Row 3:  K2, P1, K3, P1, K1 *, K1

Row 4: P1, * K1, P5, K1, P1 *

Row 5: P1, K7 *, P1

Row 6: P1, * K1, P5, K1, P1 *

Row 7:  K2, P1, K3, P1, K1 *, K1

Row 8: P1, * P2, K1, P1, K1, P3 *

Repeat rows 1-8 for the pattern. When you reach your desired length, bind off in pattern and weave in ends.

Diamond Brocade Worked Flat With Straight Needles:  Charted Instructions

Here is a chart to help you work this pattern flat.

A knitted chart showing how to knit the diamond brocade pattern

Diamond Brocade Stitch Worked in the Round

To work in the round on circular needles or dpns, you will need to alter the instructions slightly.

Cast on a multiple of 8 stitches (16, 24, 32, 40)

Round 1: * K4, P1, K3, repeat from * around

Round 2: * K3, P1, K1, P1, K2, repeat from * around

Round 3: * K2, P1, K3, P1, K1, repeat from * around

Round 4: * K1, P1, K5, P1, repeat from * around

Round 5: * P1, K7, repeat from * around

Round 6: * K1, P1, K5, P1, repeat from * around

Round 7: * K2, P1, K3, P1, K1, repeat from * around 

Round 8: * K3, P1, K1, P1, K2, repeat from * around

Repeat these eight rounds until you reach your desired length.  

The Diamond Brocade stitch can be used for a variety of projects

  • Scarves and Shawls
  • Washcloths and Dishcloths
  • Blankets
  • Cushion and Pillow Covers
  • Sweaters or Cardigans: Use this stitch for textured panels or all-over patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Diamond Brocade stitch easy for beginners?

The diamond brocade stitch is created entirely of knit and purl stitches, making it suitable for advanced beginners.  The major reason this pattern is more challenging is its 8-row repeat.  Once beginners master knits and purls, they can tackle this pattern.

Can I use this stitch for knitting in the round?

Yes! The Diamond Brocade stitch can be adapted for knitting in the round. The pattern changes slightly, but the key is to follow the odd-numbered rows as you would on the right side and the even-numbered rows for the wrong side, just as you would when working flat.

Can I substitute stitches for the Diamond Brocade stitch?


If you find the Diamond Brocade a little too challenging or want to try something else, you can explore other textured stitches like the Basketweave or Waffle stitch. These stitches offer a similar texture but with a simpler repeat or different visual effect.

Pin Now, Knit Later

The diamond brocade stitch pattern worked in purple yarn on a pin imageSave this Diamond Brocade Pattern for Future Reference

Conclusion

The Diamond Brocade stitch is a fantastic way to add texture and style to your knitting projects. Its 8-row repeat offers both a manageable challenge for knitters and the satisfaction of seeing the pattern emerge as you work. With a bit of patience and practice, you'll master this stitch and have fun creating stunning pieces with it.

More Textured Knit Stitches to Investigate

Diagonal seed stitch thumbnail image worked in greenDiagonal Seed Stitch
A thumbnail photo of the King Charles BrocadeKing Charles Brocade
Thumbnail image of the knit pyramid stitch worked in tealPyramid Stitch