ACORN STITCH KNITTING PATTERN: TUTORIAL AND CHART

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A little vintage and super cozy, the Acorn Stitch is perfect for adding texture and character to your knitting projects — without overcomplicating things.
It’s one of those stitches where just a few basic techniques are enough to create a beautiful play of texture, softness, and rhythm.

This stitch has a compact, well-defined structure that looks great with yarns that enhance its subtle raised effect.

For the swatch you see in the photo, we used:

  • 5 mm beechwood knitting needles – you can adjust depending on your yarn and tension

  • Woolpaca (50% baby alpaca – 50% wool) in the color Sage Green

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Techniques and abbreviations

To knit the Acorn Stitch, you’ll only need a few basic knitting techniques:
K = knit stitch
P = purl stitch
yo = yarn over
k3tog = knit 3 stitches together

Need to brush up on these stitches? Check out all our knitting and crochet video tutorials (and more!) in the dedicated section of the Bettaknit website!

Tutorial

Cast on a multiple of 6 stitches + 2.

  • Row 1: K1, K3, P3, repeat from * to * until the end of the row, ending with K1.

  • Row 2 and all even rows up to Row 10: work the stitches as they appear. Knit all yarn overs.

  • Row 3: repeat Row 1.

  • Row 5: K1, yo, k3tog, yo, K3, repeat from * to * until the end, ending with K1.

  • Row 7: K1, P3, K3, repeat from * to * until the end, ending with K1.

  • Row 9: K1, K3, yo, k3tog, yo, repeat from * to * until the end, ending with K1.

Repeat Rows 3–10 until you reach the desired length.

Remember: the k3tog forms the little “acorn” shape, while the yarn overs restore the volume and keep the fabric balanced.

Chart

(Insert chart image or graphic here)

Save this stitch to your Pinterest board!

Tips for the perfect result

  • Don’t pull the yarn too tightly on the yarn overs — keep it loose to maintain a soft, rounded texture.

  • Block your work (if the yarn allows) to open up the pattern and define the stitch.

  • Use slightly larger needles if you prefer a lighter, more open effect.

  • Add a few stitches in Garter Stitch along the edges to prevent curling.

Recommended Yarns

The Acorn Stitch works beautifully with soft, full-bodied yarns that show off its texture. We recommend:

  • Woolpaca – perfect for a lighter yet warm version.

  • Biologica – ideal for cozy, structured pieces.

  • Cool Wool – for a chunky, bold, and original look!

How to use the Acorn Stitch

The Acorn Stitch is versatile and looks great in many projects:

  • Warm and fluffy scarves and cowls;

  • Blankets for sofa or nursery, with a texture that stands out;

  • Cardigans and vests featuring decorative panels;

  • Accessories like hats or wrist warmers.

Why we love it

The Acorn Stitch is easy to memorize, relaxing to knit, and simply beautiful to look at.
Its compact and balanced texture creates a soft, well-defined surface.
The tiny “acorns” repeat in a steady rhythm, adding depth and movement without making the fabric heavy.
It’s the perfect stitch for anyone who loves simple techniques with refined, elegant results.

Share your Acorn Stitch!

Have you tried this stitch?
Share your project on Instagram and tag @bettaknit — we love seeing your creations come to life! 💕

And if you’re in the mood for another beautiful stitch, check out our post about the Elongated Cable Stitch: another favorite of the Bettaknit community!