Open Zigzag Stitch

(a.k.a. the stitch that makes you look way fancier than you probably feel inside)

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Meet the Stitch

If you’ve ever wanted a stitch that screams “I know what I’m doing” without actually requiring a PhD in lacework, meet the Open Zigzag Stitch—your new low-effort, high-drama bestie.

It’s a slightly open, lightly lacey pattern where simple yarnovers and 2-stitch cables create a bold, geometric zigzag. This beauty pops up in everything from breezy sweaters to stylish wraps—and once you learn it, you’ll start seeing it everywhere, like a secret handshake among stylish knitters.

Grab your needles, friends. You’re about to look impressively skilled.

Why This Stitch Rocks

• Visual Drama with Minimal Effort: It looks way harder than it actually is (we love a stitch with main character energy).
• Versatile Vibes: Works equally well in delicate shawls, structured sweaters, or summery accessories.
• Texture + Airiness: That openwork means breathable fabric that still feels interesting.
• Endlessly Playable: Want bigger, chunkier zigzags? Size up your cables, yarn and needles. Want dainty and delicate? Go fine.

Personally? I’m obsessed with how this stitch dances between bold lines and peek-a-boo lace—like business up front, party in the back… but for yarn.

What to Watch For

• Curling ALL OVER: Without big borders (at least 8 rows) or aggressive blocking (maybe), it might try to roll up like a sleepy cat. Add a garter or ribbed edge to keep it in line.
• Mind Those Yarnovers: If you miss a YO, your zigzag will look more like a sad squiggle. Stitch markers between repeats = lifesavers.
• Blocking is Magic: This stitch truly comes alive after a good blocking. Seriously—don’t skip it unless you enjoy disappointment.

Perfect Projects for This Stitch

• Summer tops: Let that airflow happen.
• Lightweight scarves and shawls: Major impact, minimal weight.
• Statement sleeves: Because basic stockinette is crying right now.
• Home decor: Dreamy lacey cushions or throw blankets? Yes, please.

Yarn Recommendation

Fingering to DK weight for drape; light cottons, linens, or silk blends to make the openwork really sing.

Worsted and above for more structure; wools are the friend of those cables.

Try It Now: Stitch Breakdown Chart and Written

Open Zigzag Stitch (worked over a multiple of 11 sts)

Row 1 (RS): (K2tog, yo) × 3, k5. (11 sts)
Row 2 and all WS rows: Purl.
Row 3: K1, (k2tog, yo) × 2, k1, 2/1 RC, k2.
Row 5: K2, k2tog, yo, k1, 2/1 RC, k3.
Row 7: K4, 2/1 RC, k4.
Row 9: K3, 2/1 RC, k1, yo, ssk, k2.
Row 11: K2, 2/1 RC, k1, (yo, ssk) × 2, k1.
Row 13: K5, (yo, ssk) × 3.
Row 15: K2, 2/1 LC, k1, (yo, ssk) × 2, k1.
Row 17: K3, 2/1 LC, k1, yo, ssk, k2.
Row 19: K4, 2/1 LC, k4.
Row 21: K2, k2tog, yo, k1, 2/1 LC, k3.
Row 23: K1, (k2tog, yo) × 2, k1, 2/1 LC, k2.
Row 24: Purl.

Swatch details:

• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes (100% Peruvian Highland Wool, Worsted weight)
• Needles: US 6 (4mm)
• 3 Repeats plus a 3-stitch garter edge and 4 rows of garter at both the top and bottom.
• Blocked aggressively because ✨definition✨ is the goal. But as you can see, those small top and bottom edges are no problem for the stockinette curl.

(Swatch photo below, wanting to flex its post-blocking glow-up.)

Knotions’ Take: “Design Twist”

Want to get extra crafty?

Use Open Zigzag just for panels on a sweater or a bag—keep the rest simple, and let the zigzags steal the show. Or… reverse it. Work stockinette panels inside a zigzag “window” for serious drama.

Pro tip: This stitch makes a killer sleeve insert if you want “wow” without knitting an entire lace garment.

TL;DR Recap

• Best for: Airy garments, statement scarves, standout panels
• Difficulty: Adventurous Beginner (aka if you know your yarnovers, you’re golden)
• Why try it: Bold texture, breathable fabric, and bonus bragging rights

Your Turn!

Have you ever played around with the Open Zigzag Stitch? Tag your swatches and WIPs with #KnotionsStitchopedia so we can all admire your zigzag glory!

Question for you: What project would you love to show off this stitch in?