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Brioche stitch is a knitting technique that creates a unique and squishy fabric that is perfect for cozy garments and accessories. There are two main styles of Brioche knitting: the English style and the Continental style. In this blog post, we will focus on the Brioche stitch Continental style, its unique technique, and my journey of learning this stitch.
Brioche Stitch Continental Style
The Brioche stitch Continental style is a knitting technique that is different from the English style. In the Continental style, the yarn is held in the left hand, and the stitches are worked using a combination of knit and purl stitches. This style of knitting is also known as “left-handed” knitting.
The Continental style Brioche stitch creates a unique texture that is similar to ribbing but with a more pronounced, squishy feel. The stitch pattern is reversible, meaning that it looks the same on both sides, making it ideal for scarves, hats, and other accessories where both sides are visible.
Learning the Continental style Brioche stitch was a journey that took me some time. I had been knitting for a few years before I attempted to learn this technique, and at first, I found it quite challenging. The process of holding the yarn in my left hand and working with two yarns (the main color and the contrast color) was initially confusing to me.
However, as I practiced more, I began to understand the unique rhythm of the Continental style Brioche stitch. I learned to keep an eye on the stitch markers and the pattern repeats, and eventually, the stitch pattern became more intuitive. I also learned that the key to achieving a neat and polished look was to keep the tension consistent throughout the project.
One of the things I love about the Continental style Brioche stitch is the endless possibilities it offers in terms of color and texture. By using two different colors of yarn and alternating them in the stitch pattern, you can create a stunning color-blocked effect. You can also experiment with different types of yarn, such as a fluffy mohair or a shiny silk, to create a unique texture.
In terms of the final outcome, the Continental style Brioche stitch creates a fabric that is similar to the English style Brioche stitch. However, the two styles differ in terms of the technique used to achieve the stitch pattern. The English style Brioche stitch is worked by slipping stitches and working yarn overs, while the Brioche stitch Continental style uses a combination of knit and purl stitches.
Brioche Stitch English Style
Susanne Sommer is a well-known knitwear designer and instructor who has created many beautiful patterns using the Brioche stitch. She has a unique teaching style that makes learning this technique fun and easy. Here are some of the key techniques that Susanne Sommer uses to teach the Brioche stitch in the English style:
1. Start with the basics: Before diving into the Brioche stitch, it’s important to have a solid understanding of basic knitting techniques, such as casting on, knitting, and purling. Susanne Sommer recommends that beginners start with a simple Brioche rib pattern, such as a 1×1 or 2×2 rib, to get a feel for the stitch.
2. Practice tension: Tension is key when it comes to the Brioche stitch. Susanne Sommer recommends practicing the stitch with a swatch to get a feel for the tension needed to create a neat and polished look. She also suggests using a yarn that has some elasticity, such as a wool or wool blend, to help with the tension.
3. Use contrasting colors: Using contrasting colors is a great way to make the Brioche stitch stand out and to create a beautiful color-blocked effect. Susanne Sommer recommends using two different colors of yarn, one light and one dark, to make it easier to see the stitch pattern.
4. Experiment with different patterns: Once you have a solid understanding of the Brioche stitch, you can start experimenting with different patterns and designs. Susanne Sommer has many beautiful patterns available, including sweaters, shawls, and hats, that use the Brioche stitch in creative ways. Check her website.
In conclusion, Susanne Sommer is a skilled instructor who has a unique teaching style that makes learning the Brioche stitch in the English style fun and easy. By starting with the basics, practicing tension, using contrasting colors, and experimenting with different patterns, you can master this beautiful knitting technique and create stunning projects that are sure to impress.
Knitting is a wonderful craft that offers endless possibilities for creating beautiful and unique projects. While many knitters have their favorite stitches and techniques, there are always new stitches to learn and explore. I invite you to learn few more stitches and add them to your knitting repertoire.
1. Leaf stitch: Leaf stitch is a beautiful and versatile stitch that can be used in a variety of projects, from scarves and shawls to sweaters and blankets. This stitch pattern creates a textured fabric that looks like a row of leaves. To knit leaf stitch, you’ll need to know how to knit, purl, and make yarn overs. It’s a fairly simple stitch pattern that is easy to memorize and works up quickly.
2. Kitchener stitch: Kitchener stitch is a technique that is used to join two pieces of knitting together seamlessly. It’s commonly used to close the toe of a sock or to join the ends of a scarf or cowl. While it may seem intimidating at first, Kitchener stitch is actually quite easy to learn. It involves weaving the yarn through the stitches in a specific pattern to create a seamless join.
3. Diagonal lace stitch: Diagonal lace stitch is a beautiful stitch pattern that creates a diagonal line of eyelets. It’s perfect for incorporating into shawls, scarves, and other accessories. To knit diagonal lace stitch, you’ll need to know how to knit, purl, and do yarn overs and decreases. The stitch pattern is easy to memorize and works up quickly.
4. Honeycomb Brioche stitch: Honeycomb Brioche stitch is a variation of the Brioche stitch that creates a beautiful honeycomb-like texture. It’s perfect for creating cozy sweaters, scarves, and hats. To knit honeycomb Brioche stitch, you’ll need to know how to knit, purl, and work two-color Brioche stitch. It’s a bit more advanced than some of the other stitches on this list, but it’s worth the effort to learn.
Learning new stitches and techniques is one of the joys of knitting. It allows you to create unique and beautiful projects and keeps your knitting skills sharp. We invite you to try these four new stitches and see where they take you. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite stitch pattern or technique that you’ll use for years to come.
