Instructions to Knit a Scallop

Instructions to Knit a Scallop
Written By
Jessica Cook
Jessica Cook
Published: Mar 29, 2010
Updated: Feb 23, 2021
2 minute read

A scalloped border adds a curved edge to a knitted item, like the curved edge of a sea shell. Though scallop edgings are common in crochet, they are less so in knitting. The scallop stitch alternates regular knit and purl rows with a row of increases and decreases. If you have a basic understanding of knitted increases and decreases, you can add a scallop edge on your next project.

Things You'll Need:

Things You Will Need

  • Knitting Needles
  • Yarn
  • Count the stitches on the project. This scalloped edging needs 18 stitches to complete each pattern repeat. If you don't have a total number of stitches that is divisible by 18, you can increase or decrease stitches on the next row or round.

    Knit the first row using all knit stitches. This row might be the final row on your straight knitting project, such as a blanket or a scarf, or a circular knitting project like socks or booties. The knit row is the first row of the edging.

    Repeat the following pattern across the round or row: Knit two stitches together three times. Then yarn over and knit one stitch, six times. Finally, knit two stitches together three more times. This is the 18 stitch pattern.

    Knit the next row or round. This is the third row of the scalloped pattern.

    Purl every stitch on the next row. This is the fourth and last row of the edging pattern.

    Repeat the entire process as many times as you like to deepen the scalloped border on your knitted item.

    Jessica Cook

    Jessica Cook has been writing since high school when she wrote for TeenGrrl.com and GirlZone.com. During college she wrote for her university's e-zine, department newsletter and an education journal. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English…

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