What a Double Stitch Is and Why You'd Use It

A double stitch (also called a double knit stitch or dk stitch) is a single knit stitch worked twice into the same stitch or row, creating a thicker, denser fabric than a standard knit. The result looks like two columns of bumps running side by side, and the fabric itself has more weight and warmth than single-stitch knitting.

You use a double stitch when you want a garment or project to hold its shape better, feel warmer, or have a more textured appearance. Scarves, blankets, and sweaters made with double stitches wear longer because the denser weave resists pilling and stretching. The trade-off is that double-stitch projects take longer and use more yarn than the same project in single stitch.

Key Takeaways

  • A double stitch is worked by knitting into the same stitch twice before moving to the next stitch, creating a thicker, denser fabric.
  • You can work a double stitch in the knit direction, purl direction, or alternate between them depending on the texture you want.
  • The basic motion is the same as a regular knit or purl stitch—you are just repeating it in the same stitch instead of moving forward.
  • Double-stitch projects use roughly twice as much yarn as single-stitch projects of the same size, so check your yarn supply before starting.
  • Practice on a small swatch with worsted-weight yarn and size 8 or 9 needles before committing to a full project.

Setting Up Your Needles and Yarn

Cast on the number of stitches your pattern calls for using your preferred cast-on method. For a double-stitch project, you will need fewer cast-on stitches than you would for a single-stitch project of the same width, because each stitch takes up more horizontal space. If you are working without a pattern, cast on about half the number of stitches you would normally use.

Use needles one or two sizes larger than you would for single-stitch knitting with the same yarn weight. This prevents the fabric from becoming so dense that it is stiff or hard to work. Worsted-weight yarn with size 8 or 9 needles is a good starting point for learning the stitch.

Working the Double Knit Stitch

Insert your right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from left to right, the same way you would for a regular knit stitch. Wrap the yarn around the right needle and pull it through, but do not slip the original stitch off the left needle. You now have a new loop on the right needle and the original stitch is still on the left needle.

Insert the right needle into the same stitch again, in the same direction. Wrap the yarn and pull through a second time. Now slip the original stitch off the left needle. You have just completed one double stitch—two new stitches on the right needle came from one stitch on the left needle.

Repeat this process across the entire row. At the end of the row, you will have twice as many stitches on the right needle as you started with. On the next row, treat each of those new stitches as a single stitch and work the double stitch into each one.

Creating Texture with Purl and Knit Combinations

If you work a double knit stitch (knit twice into the same stitch) on every row, you get a bumpy, textured fabric that looks the same on both sides. This is sometimes called garter stitch in double form.

You can also alternate between double knit stitches and double purl stitches to create different textures. For example, knit twice into a stitch on row one, then purl twice into the corresponding stitch on row two. This creates a ribbed effect that is stretchier than pure double knit and works well for cuffs and edges.

Experiment on a small practice swatch to see which combination appeals to you before you commit yarn to a full project. The texture changes noticeably depending on whether you are knitting, purling, or mixing the two.

Counting Rows and Tracking Your Progress

Because each row of double stitches produces twice as many stitches as the row before, your stitch count doubles with each row you complete. This can feel disorienting at first. Place a stitch marker or safety pin at the edge of your work every few rows so you can count them easily without losing track.

If you are following a pattern written for single stitches, you will need to work twice as many rows to reach the same finished length. A pattern that calls for 20 rows in single stitch will need about 40 rows in double stitch. Keep a row counter or tally sheet nearby so you do not lose count.

Binding Off a Double-Stitch Project

Bind off using the standard method: knit two stitches, pass the first stitch over the second, and repeat across the row. Because you have twice as many stitches as a single-stitch project, the bind-off row will take longer, but the motion is identical. Work slowly and keep even tension so the bind-off edge does not pucker.

Some knitters prefer to bind off using a needle one or two sizes larger than the working needles. This keeps the bind-off edge from becoming too tight and restricting the stretch of the finished piece. Try both methods on your practice swatch to see which you prefer.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

If your stitches are coming out uneven or loose, you are likely pulling the yarn too hard when you wrap it around the needle. The double stitch requires a lighter touch than single-stitch knitting because you are working into the same stitch twice. Relax your tension slightly and let the yarn flow more freely.

If you accidentally slip a stitch off the needle before completing both passes, you will drop a stitch. This is straightforward to fix on the same row: pick up the dropped stitch with a crochet hook and pull it back onto the left needle, then continue. If you do not notice until several rows later, you may need to unravel back to that point.

If your fabric is too stiff or dense, your needles are too small. Switch to needles one size larger and work a new swatch. Double-stitch fabric should feel soft and drape slightly, not rigid.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much yarn do I need for a double-stitch project?

Plan to use roughly twice as much yarn as you would for the same project in single stitch. Weigh the yarn for a single-stitch swatch of the same dimensions, then double that weight. This is more reliable than yardage estimates because yarn thickness varies by brand.

Can I switch between double stitch and single stitch in the same project?

Yes. Many patterns use double stitch for the body and single stitch for the ribbed cuffs or edges, since single stitch is more elastic. The transition is visible but not jarring if you bind off the double-stitch section cleanly and cast on fresh stitches for the single-stitch section.

What happens if I miss a double stitch and only knit once into a stitch?

You will have one fewer stitch than you should on that row. If you notice it when ready, unravel back to that stitch and redo it. If you do not notice until later, you can often continue without fixing it—the fabric will look slightly different in that spot but will not unravel.

Is double stitch the same as brioche stitch?

No. Brioche stitch is a different technique that creates a similar thick, textured fabric but uses yarn overs and slip stitches. Double stitch is simpler and does not require yarn overs. Both produce warm, dense fabric, but the construction is different.