Knit and purl stitches are the building blocks that create endless texture possibilities without the complexity of cables or lace. The thing about them is how they let you add interesting texture while keeping the knitting moving along quickly. Unlike cables where your eye goes straight to the motif, knit and purl patterns spread visual interest evenly across the fabric, creating that lovely all-over effect that looks really good.

The real advantage for designers is the flexibility—you can use these textures across an entire garment or just in sections without changing the tension or fit. They’re perfect when you want subtle sophistication rather than bold statements, and they work wonderfully with nuanced colourways where you don’t want competing elements. Seed stitch, basketweave, moss stitch—these patterns add depth without drama.