Checkerboard Knitting Pattern

Instructions

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1. 1Stitch multiple and cast onCheckerboard uses a multiple of 8 sts + 4; each square is 4 sts wide and 6 rows tall. For the swatch, cast on 28 sts (8 x 3 + 4) with 4.5 mm needles. Each row ends with the same type of square on both sides, so the pattern is symmetrical.
2. 2First row of squares (rows 1-6)Row 1 (RS): *k4, p4; rep from * 3 times, k4. (28 sts) Row 2 (WS): *p4, k4; rep from * 3 times, p4. Rows 3 and 5: as Row 1. Rows 4 and 6: as Row 2.
3. 3Second row of squares (rows 7-12)Row 7 (RS): *p4, k4; rep from * 3 times, p4. (28 sts) Row 8 (WS): *k4, p4; rep from * 3 times, k4. Rows 9 and 11: as Row 7. Rows 10 and 12: as Row 8. Rows 1-12 form the full repeat: knit and purl squares swap every 6 rows.
4. 4Knit the swatchRepeat rows 1-12 three times (36 rows), then work rows 1-6 once more, for 42 rows and 7 rows of squares. The piece will measure about 15 cm. The squares may look slightly rectangular before blocking; blocking evens them out.
5. 5What to make with itCheckerboard is a classic for baby blankets, dishcloths and cushion covers; a cotton dishcloth in this pattern is both textured and absorbent. For a baby blanket, cast on 140 sts (8 x 17 + 4; about 70 cm) and work to 80 cm; you'll need about 500 g. Adding 4 garter edge sts at each side and 6 garter rows at top and bottom stops the edges from curling at all.
6. 6FinishingAfter the last WS row (a row 6), bind off in pattern on the RS. Weave in the ends through the edge stitches. Soak the swatch and lay it out to 14 x 15 cm to dry; with cotton, a steam press makes the squares very crisp.