🧶 Knitting raised patterns with the brioche stitch technique: the ultimate guide to soft and modern knitting

✨ Introduction: Want a soft, textured and super trendy knit?

Looking for a technique that stands out from the crowd and adds texture and volume to your projects? Brioche stitch , also known as faux English ribbing , is THE stitch for you. Thanks to its soft finish and play of relief, it allows you to create visually rich patterns – perfect for scarves, hats, sweaters, or cardigans.

👉 In this article, we'll guide you step by step to master the brioche stitch , even if you're a beginner. And if you're looking for inspiration, we'll give you our exclusive patterns where the brioche stitch would work wonders...

🧵 What is brioche stitch in knitting?

What is the brioche stitch?
It's a knitting technique that creates a very soft, double-sided texture by alternating slipped and yarn over stitches. It's often used to add texture to a project, or to work in two colors for a stunning visual effect.

🎯 Why adopt the brioche stitch?

• ✅ For its soft volume , perfect for winter
  

• ✅ For its elegant and original relief patterns
  

• ✅ For its versatility : works in solid, two-tone, structured patterns
  

• ✅ For its reversible double side : ideal for scarves, collars or open vests
  
  

🧑🏫 How to knit brioche stitch? (Step by step)

🧷 Necessary material

• Straight or circular needles
  

• Well-twisted wool (to better visualize the relief)
  

• A stitch marker
  

• A little patience… and a lot of fun!
  
  

🪡 Step by step for the simple back and forth brioche stitch

1. Cast on an even number of stitches.
   

2. Assemble the base:
   Knit a row with 1 knit stitch, 1 slipped stitch and a yarn over .
   

3. Next row (purl side):
   Knit together the slipped stitch and its yarn over (called a brioche stitch ), slip the next stitch with a yarn over.
   

4. Repeat these steps until you reach the desired length.
   
   

📌 Knit-Sis Tip: If you make a mistake, use a cable needle to "pick up" a brioche stitch. It's easier than it looks!

🎨 Knitting the brioche stitch in two colors: the “wow” effect

Looking for a graphic look? The two-tone brioche stitch is your ally. It creates a raised pattern inverted according to the dominant color on each side.

💡 Example: use a light yarn for the front and a dark yarn for the back = two sweaters in one!

🔍 When should you use brioche stitch in your projects?

When to use brioche stitch in knitting?
Use the brioche stitch for projects that require volume and warmth: scarves, hats, collars, vests, sweaters or decorative panels in relief.

💡 Compatible Knit-Sis project ideas:

🧠 Brioche and creativity: explore the variations

Advanced variants to test:

• Round brioche stitch
  

• Twisted brioche
  

• Structured brioche patterns (leaves, waves, chevrons)
  
  

🎥 UPCOMING TUTORIAL: Lenny will show you how to knit a brioche leaf in our next video tutorial! Subscribe to the newsletter so you don't miss it. 👇

💬 Your frequently asked questions about brioche stitch

❓ Is it difficult to knit the brioche stitch?

👉 No more than a cable pattern! You just need to understand the system of slipped stitches + yarn overs. Once you get the rhythm, it's almost meditative.

❓ Can you do brioche stitch with any yarn?

👉 Choose non-hairy , well-twisted yarns to see the stitches better. Avoid mohair if you are a beginner!

❓ What is the correct sample?

👉 Always make a swatch in brioche! This stitch is very stretchy. Allow 30 to 40% less width than with jersey.

🚀 Conclusion: The brioche stitch, the touch of relief that changes everything

With the brioche stitch, you add texture, softness, and style to your knits. Whether you're a curious beginner or an experienced knitter, this technique will enrich your creative palette. And if you're looking for modern patterns to apply what you've just learned...

👉 Discover our selection of perfect patterns for incorporating brioche stitch and adding volume to your creations:

➡️ See all patterns knitted with textured stitches
➡️ Download our FREE “Poppy Top” pattern to get started easily
➡️ Subscribe to our newsletter to receive new brioche tutorials in advance!