Knitting patterns 101 – which pattern suits which project

...and how you can knit the patterns!

Knitting patterns are more than just a technique: they give your work structure, impact, and style. But which pattern suits which project – and what's the best way to implement it? Here you'll find a comprehensive overview, including yarn recommendations.

1. Knitting patterns: Stockinette stitch & reverse stockinette stitch (basics)

Uses: Scarves & shawls, sweaters, jackets, baby blankets, accessories
Effect: The clean, smooth knitted surfaces offer a calm appearance and allow the color and material to have their effect.

Implementation:

• Stockinette stitch : First, cast on all stitches. Row 1: knit stitches, Row 2: purl stitches → repeat.

• Smooth left : 1 right turn, 1 right turn alternating

Ensure you use the same number of stitches across many rows for a consistent result.

Yarn recommendation:

• ggh SAMSON – 100% Merino wool, 85 m/50g – ideal for clear stitch patterns that bring out the design.
• ggh MERINO DELUXE – 100% Merino wool, 125 m/50g – exquisite quality for high-quality basics.
• ggh HUSKY - with the thick yarn and size 9 needles you'll make fast progress

Tip: To prevent the edges from curling, combine the pattern with ribbed or garter stitch edges.

2. Rib pattern

Use: Cuffs (on sweaters, jackets), hats, scarves – dimensionally stable and elastic.
Effect: The ribbed pattern provides stretch and edges that won't fray. A true classic. It looks neat on both sides.

Implementation:

• 1 R: 1 M li, 1 M re → Repeat until end of row.
• Next row is the same. Any number of rows – make sure to repeat regularly.
  

Another variation: 2x2 rib: Knit 2, purl 2 – repeat in every row

Yarn recommendation:

• ggh MAXIMA – due to its length (110 m/50g) it is suitable for finer structures.
• ggh LACY – 150 m/25g, very fine – for luxurious cuffs or accessories with ribbed texture.
• ggh TAVIRA – 100% cotton, running length : 80m/50g. Due to the fiber and the twisting, it is exceptionally soft, yet retains its shape.
• ggh MERINO DELUXE

3. Cable pattern & crossed stitches

Uses: Sweaters, jackets, stand-up collars, headbands, pillowcases – for three-dimensional effects.
Effect: Braids give the knitted piece depth and movement; they are three-dimensional, lively, decorative and a real eye-catcher – and not as difficult as they look.

Implementation:

• Example: Round in division 8 sts: 4 sts crossed forward (carrier stitches moved aside) → knit 4 sts → 4 sts of the carrier stitches.
• Subsequent rows are worked in stockinette stitch or according to the pattern.

Yarn recommendation:

Tip : It's best to use smooth yarns and light colors so that the pattern stands out well.

• ggh SAMSON or ggh MERINO DELUXE – both hold structure well, offer a clear stitch pattern and defined cables.

4. Openwork pattern / Lace pattern

Use: Scarves, stoles, airy sweaters – especially suitable for fine yarn and elegant projects.

Implementation:

• Example: 1 yarn over (yo), knit 2 stitches together (k2tog) → creates a hole. Repeat across the row.
• Follow the pattern instructions – number of stitches divisible by number of repetitions + edge stitches.
  

Tip: Looks especially beautiful in fine yarns such as cotton , linen or silk .

Yarn recommendation:

• ggh LACY – 150 m/25g, needle size 3-4 mm, gauge 36 rows × 26 sts.
• ggh KID – fluffy mohair lace yarn, ideal for airy lace patterns with a luxury effect.
• ggh TAVIRA – Soft cotton, ideal for summer projects or designs that are worn directly against the skin year-round.

5. Kraus right – the all-rounder for beginners

Ideal for: scarves, baby blankets, jackets, projects without cuffs
Effect: Elastic, rustic, cozy

Tip: Perfect for beginners – the stitch pattern is even, the piece retains its shape.

Here's how:

• Knit only knit stitches in both forward and return rows.

Recommended yarns:

• ggh MAXIMA – soft, voluminous and ideal for structure
• ggh BABY ALPACA – slightly shiny, warm and fluffy

6. Pearl patterns – simple & effective

Ideal for: sweaters, blankets, hats, men's models
Effect: uniform, subtle, modern. Tip: Ideal for textures with a fine relief effect.

Here's how:

• Small pearl: Knit 1, purl 1 alternately, in the next row knit offset (knit stitches onto purl stitches, purl stitches onto right stitches)
• Large pearl: 2 R as above, then offset

Recommended yarns:

• ggh SAMSON – for clear, structured patterns
• ggh MAXIMA – grippy and voluminous for a plastic effect

Bonus tip:

Create a small “pattern book” with sample swatches – that way you always have your favorite textures handy when the next knitting idea comes along!

Checklist: Your knitting pattern guide

Conclusion: The right pattern makes all the difference.

Whether simple, stretchy, or sophisticated – every knitting pattern tells its own story. Choose your pattern to match your project, yarn, and style. And if you're unsure: test your pattern on a small gauge swatch.

Discover the perfect yarn, needles & accessories for your next favorite project in our shop – and find your new favorite pattern!