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How to Knit the Pyramid Stitch: Easy Textured Pattern

by Janice Jones

The Pyramid Knit Stitch is a geometric pattern that creates a series of symmetrical triangle shapes across your fabric, reminiscent of ancient stone pyramids. This reversible and textured stitch is perfect for projects that need structure and style, such as dishcloths, blankets, scarves, cowls, cushion covers, and even sweaters.

Its combination of knits and purls provides a three-dimensional look that looks especially pretty when done with solid-colored yarns. AND, because it only uses knit and purl stitches, it's perfect for beginners.

The right side is showing on a swatch knitted with the pyramid stitch patternKnit Pyramid Pattern

Skill Level

Easy/Beginner:  This pattern uses only knit and purl stitches

Pattern Notes

  • It is worked on an 8-stitch plus 1 repeat
  • The row repeat is 16 rows.
  • Knit and Purl Stitches
  • It is not identical on both sides, but it still looks good on the reverse side. Check out the photo below of the wrong side.
  • Does not curl
The wrong side is showing on a knitted swatch worked in the pyramid patternWrong Side of the Knit Pyramid Pattern

Abbreviations

RS = right side
WS =wrong side
K = Knit
P = Purl
• * Work the stitches between the two asterisks for the number of times indicated.
St/sts = stitch/stitches

Skills Needed to Make the Pyramid Knit Stitch Pattern

  1. How to make the knit stitch
  2. How to make the purl stitch
  3. How to cast on  I recommend the long-tail cast on method for this practice.
  4. How to bind off
  5. How to weave in ends
  6. How to block

Written Instructions for Working Flat

Cast on a Multiple of 8 + 1

Row 1 (RS): P1, *K7, P1; rep from * to end.
Row 2 and all WS rows: Purl.
Row 3: P2, *K5, P3; rep from * to last 7 sts, K5, P2.
Row 5: P3, *K3, P5; rep from * to last 6 sts, K3, P3.
Row 7: P4, *K1, P7; rep from * to last 5 sts, K1, P4.
Row 9: K4, *P1, K7; rep from * to last 5 sts, P1, K4.
Row 11: K3, *P3, K5; rep from * to last 6 sts, P3, K3.
Row 13: K2, *P5, K3; rep from * to last 7 sts, P5, K2.
Row 15: K1, *P7, K1; rep from *.
Repeat Rows 1–16 to continue the pattern.

Bind off on a right side row, weave in ends and block for a professional appearance.

Instructions for Using a Knitting Chart

Here is a chart if you prefer to work from a chart instead of written instructions.

Knitting instructions in the form of a chart for the knit pyramid stitch

Can You Work the Knit Pyramid Stitch in the Round?

Yes, but the stitch count is slightly different.

Cast on a multiple of 8.

Rnds 1 and 2: *K7, p1. Rep from * to end of rnd.

Rnds 3 and 4: P1. *K5, p3. Rep from * to last 7 sts. K5, p2.

Rnds 5 and 6: P2. *K3, p5. Rep from * to last 6 sts. K3, p3.

Rnds 7 and 8: P3. *K1, p7. Rep from * to last 5 sts. K1, p4.

Rnds 9 and 10: K3. *P1, k7. Rep from * to last 5 sts. P1, k4.

Rnds 11 and 12: K2. *P3, k5. Rep from * to last 6 sts. P3, k3.

Rnds 13 and 14: K1. *P5, k3. Rep from * to last 7 sts. P5, k2.

Rnds 15 and 16: *P7, k1. Rep from * to end of rnd.

Rep Rnds 1-16 until desired length ending after a Rnd 8 or 16. Bind off and weave in ends.

What Can I Make with the Knit Pyramid Stitch?

Best Uses for the Pyramid Stitch:

  1. Baby blankets and throws: The solid fabric is best for a baby blanket.
  2. Scarves and cowls: It lies flat and looks great on both sides.
  3. Pillow covers and home décor: Dishcloths, towels, cozies, mug rugs, and other quick projects.
  4. Men’s accessories: The geometric design works well for men’s beanies.

Tips for Knitting the Pyramid Stitch

  • Use solid, smooth yarn to highlight the stitch definition.
  • Consider using stitch markers between each pattern repeat to stay on track.
  • Count your rows. If you get off your stitch and row count the pyramid will not look much like a pyramid.
  • Block lightly to allow the texture to settle without flattening the pyramids.

FAQs About the Pyramid Stitch

Is the pyramid stitch reversible?

It’s not identical on both sides, but the wrong side is still attractive and flat, making it great for scarves and blankets.

What yarn weight works best for this pattern?

Worsted weight yarn gives a bold, structured look, while DK or sport weight can make the pattern more delicate.

Can I use this stitch in the round?

Yes, You’d need to modify the purl rows to knit them, since you're always working on the right side in the round.  Please the specific directions earlier in this article.

Does it curl at the edges?

No, there is very little curling.  The mix of knit and purl stitches prevents curling, making it ideal for flat items.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes! As long as you're comfortable with knits and purls, you can tackle this pattern.  Sometimes beginners shy away from patterns with multiple row counts.  Try using post-it notes or a ruler to help you keep your place.

Pin Now, Knit Later

A pin image showing the knit pyramid stitchKnit Pyramid Stitch

Last Words

The Pyramid Knit Stitch is a striking yet easy-to-master pattern that adds rich texture and visual interest to any project. With just knit and purl stitches, you can create a dimensional, non-curling fabric perfect for both beginners and experienced knitters. 

More Textured Stitches to Explore        More Knit and Purl Stitches to Explore

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