How to Knit the Running Bond Stitch — Easy 4-Row 'Brick' Texture

The knitted running bond stitch creates a lovely brick-like texture by using slipped stitches and alternating knit and purl rows. It's an easy 4-row repeat that adds depth and interest to scarves, blankets, cushions and other textured projects. Below you'll find a clear pattern, materials list and a few practical tips to help you get an even, tidy fabric.

Knitting materials and tools:

• DPN 4 mm (US 6/UK 8)
• Lion Brand, Heartland (4): 100 % – Acrylic

Common abbreviations of knit stitches:

• k – knit
• p – purl
• sel s – selvage stitch: always slip the first stitch knitwise, work to the last stitch, purl the last stitch

Running bond stitch knitting pattern:

Cast on any odd number of stitches.

Rows 1-2: sel s, knit all stitches, sel s.

Row 3: sel s, [k1, slip next stitch holding working yarn in front] – repeat till the end, k1, sel s.

Row 4: sel s, p1, [slip next stitch holding working yarn in back, p1] – repeat till the end, sel s.

Repeat Rows 1-4 to form the pattern.

Tips:

• Keep the tension of slipped stitches even — do not pull them too tight or they will distort the staggered columns.
• If you prefer a firmer edge, work the selvage stitches a little tighter and be consistent with slipping the first stitch knitwise and purling the last stitch.
• This pattern shows its texture best in a solid or semi-solid yarn where the brick-like offsets are visible.

Uses and variations:

The running bond stitch works well for textured panels on garments, scarves, blankets and home accessories. You can change needle size or yarn weight to alter the fabric drape and texture; because the pattern repeats every four rows, it's easy to incorporate into larger stitch patterns or border details.