What is the Pique Knit Stitch Pattern and How is it Created: Tutorial

Introduction to the Pique Knit Stitch Pattern  by Janice Jones

The pique pattern is a classic rib stitch variation, creating a textured, stretchy fabric. The pique stitch pattern is characterized by its raised, diamond-shaped stitches, creating a unique texture perfect for various knitting projects.

Pique stitch is often used to create items such as scarves, hats, and sweaters, but it can also be used for home decor such as blankets and pillows.

What is the Pique Knit Stitch

The word “Pique” comes from the French and means backstitched. is a French word with the translation of “backstitched” in English. It creates a stiff fabric that looks like a fancy rib but is highly textured.

The nice thing about this “rib” stitch is that it will lay flat and not compress like a typical 2-by-1 or a two-by-two rib.

This is not reversible, so if you need to see the same pattern on both sides, this may not be the stitch you will want to use. Both sides, however, create interesting textures, so for this reason, I think it’s fine to use it to make a scarf or shawl.

The reverse side appears as a regular rib stitch, as you can see in the photographs below.  If you need more information about reversible knit stitches, check out this article.

This 4-Row Repeat Knit Stitch Pattern is created with knits and purls, perfect for beginners.

Even though it is a four-row repeat, which means it takes four rows to complete the pattern, it’s very beginner-friendly because two of the four rows are identical (rows one and three), and one row is composed of only plain knit stitches. So, if you pride yourself on memorizing knit stitch patterns, this one is for you!

This design can be used as a rib pattern for any number of projects, but it is also great as a stand-alone stitch to create pillows, scarves, and even cowls.

The Pique Stitch vs. Grid Stitch

Not to confuse you, but you'd be right if you think this stitch looks like the Grid stitch. The Grid stitch and the Pique stitch are made by working a four-row repeat of knit and purl stitches, but subtle differences make each a unique stitch.

The Pique Knit Stitch Pattern: Right or Public Side

The Pique Knit Stitch Pattern: Wrong side

What Skills Are Needed to Create the Knit Pique Stitch Pattern?

• Cast On
• Knit
• Purl
• Bind off
• Weave in Ends
• Read Pattern Instructions

If you need to review any of these techniques, click to be taken to the step-by-step directions before advancing to the practice swatch.

Notes On Pique Knit Stitch Pattern

• Row Count: 4-Row Repeat
• Stitch Repeats: Multiples of 3 + 2, meaning that you will cast on a multiple of 3 stitches, such as 15, plus two more.
• This pattern may not need to be blocked, but if you work it in 100% wool, a little blocking will make it look more professional.

Materials Needed to Practice This Knit Stitch

• Yarn: I recommend a worsted-weight yarn (#4) in a light color so you can see your stitches. Use wool, acrylic, cotton, or what you have on hand. Smooth, non-slippery yarn works best for beginners.
• Knitting needles: If using #4 yarn, choose a pair of knitting needles size 7 ( 4.50 mm ) or 8 ( 5.0 mm).
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Skill Level: 

Abbreviations

K – knit
P – Purl
** - Repeat instructions between the * * asterisks

How to make the Pique Knit Stitch: Directions

Cast on Multiples of 3 + 2.

I cast on 20 stitches for this Swatch tutorial.

Row 1 (Right Side): * K2, P1 *, K2
Row 2 (Wrong Side): P2, * K1, P2 *
Row 3: * K2, P1 *, K2
Row 4: Knit All

Repeat Rows 1 – 4 until your piece reaches your desired length.

Learn to Read a Stitch Chart

This beginner-level stitch doesn’t require a knitting chart, but if you learn how to use one now, it will be much easier when you attach more complicated stitch patterns. This is a very simple chart.

Pique Knit Stitch Pattern Knit Chart

Last Words

The Pique Knit Stitch Pattern is an interesting, textured stitch that creates a rib like fabric.  Since it is beginner-friendly, anyone who is learning how to knit can use this stitch pattern to create interesting projects.  While not reversible, the reverse side still resembles a rib so it's a great pattern for projects such as scarves, cowls, shawls, and pillows.

Pique Knit Stitch Pattern:  Pin for Future Reference

If you found the Pique Knit Stitch Pattern Interesting, You might like to try one of these:

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a small  commission.

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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