Chevrons in Knitting and Crochet

Working Zigzag Patterns into Crochet and Knitting Projects

Aug 18, 2008

Chevron (or zigzag) patterns are attractive additions to knitted and crocheted projects and are simple to produce using the instructions given.

It is easy to work chevron patterns into both knitting and crochet, making beautiful patterns in your work. The zig-zag pattern of the chevron is made by repeatedly increasing and decreasing stitches across the row.

Odd numbered rows: K1, K2tog *K5, m1, k1, m1, K5, sl1, k2tog, psso, rep from * to last 14 sts, k5, m1, k1, m1, k5, sl1, k1, psso, k1

nb – the above assumes working a flat piece, if you’re working in the round, then the even numbered rows would be all Purl.

First row: Work a treble in the 4th chain from the hook, work 3 tr, 2ch, *work 5tr, miss next 2 ch, work 5 tr, 2ch, work 5 tr; rep from * to end.

Subsequent rows: 3ch, Miss 1 tr, work 4 tr (the last of which is in the 2ch “gap” from the row below”, *2ch, work 5 tr (the first of which is in the 2ch “gap” from the row below), miss 2 sts, 5tr; rep from * to last 7 sts, 2ch, 5tr, ensuring that the last tr is in the top of the 3ch from the previous row, thus ensuring a neat edge.

Uses of Chevron Patterns

For the first few rows the pattern won’t be obvious, but it will start to emerge as you work your way up the piece.

The best way to get the maximum impact from chevron patterns is to incorporate stripes of colour into the work. Strongly contrasting colours highlight the pattern dramatically, but more subtle effects can be achieved with graduating shades of the same colour.

This type of work causes the cast on and off edges to take on the shape of the zig zag which works well on flat pieces such as scarves. If knitting a stocking stitch chevron scarf, garter stitch edgings can prevent the fabric from curling. Add 3 sts to each side of your item and work these in knit only. Work three rows without the chevron pattern at each end of the scarf.

Chevron patterns can make very attractive borders for garments such as jackets or skirts. Socks look particularly effective if chevrons are worked up the leg. At the base of your garment work a few stripes using a chevron pattern, and then work straight. As you move up the garment the rows will “straighten” enabling you to work the shaping stitches needed without complications.

Chevrons add another dimension to your knitting and crochet repertoire and can be used for all sorts of garments and household items.

The copyright of the article Chevrons in Knitting and Crochet in Knitting & Crochet is owned by Lesley Arnold-Hopkins. Permission to republish Chevrons in Knitting and Crochet in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.