Brioche is a variety of knitting stitches that are typically worked using any kind of knitting needles. The interesting textures can be knit with single pointed to double-pointed, fixed or interchangeable circular needles - and any type of yarn. Though the name "brioche" seems to have derived from French slang for "mistake", the knitting pattern itself is believed to have originated in the Middle East, given the roll formed of two pieces, one stacked atop the other. As outlined in Barbara G. Walker's book "Treasury of Knitting Patterns", brioche patterns include two elements or knitting techniques- a slipped stitch (sl st) and a yarn-over (yo) which are knitted together on the return row. Technically, Brioche a one-row repeat but we have the first setup row which is only being worked at the beginning of the pattern. While brioche may seem intimidating to novice knitters, it's quite beautiful and can actually be pretty simple too.

Therefore, in this blog, we will take you through the steps of knitting Brioche stitch, including some helpful tips and tricks that will make the process a bit easier.

Gather your supplies

First and foremost, it's best to gather the necessary materials and have your favorite knitting needles on hand. Many knitters recommend stainless steel knitting needles as they help ensure a yarn over and smooth flow of slipping stitches.

Understand Brioche Knitting Abbreviations

Unlike other stitch patterns in knitting, Brioche has its own set of rules and abbreviations. These techniques are different from previous learnt knitting. Of course it has knit and purl stitches but they are worked differently.

Yf = Yarn Forward. In Brioche, it refers to the technique of bringing the working yarn under the right knitting needle to the front of the work.

Sl1YO = Slip 1 and yarn over. You may have seen this knitting abbreviation in lace knitting but this is different. Here it means to slip the next stitch purlwise. Even though it may look like two stitches on your knitting needle, take care to not miscount as it would cause a hole in your knitted fabric.

BRK = Brioche Knit. This refers to knit the stitch together with its corresponding yarn over created on the previous row.

BRP = Brioche Purl. The stitch refers to the technique that you’ll be purl stitch together with its corresponding yarn over that was created on the previous row.

To really get a grasp on the technique, it's recommended to knit a swatch first before managing a pattern, allowing you to focus solely on mastering the new skill.

Cast on Stitches

From there, you should cast on an even number of stitches and make sure to choose a stretchy cast-on method, such as a long tail cast-on, tubular cast-on, etc.

Step up row - The Brioche stitch pattern then works in two rows, beginning with a setup row and a row of repeat stitches. For the setup row, slip one, yarn over, slip one, knit one - and continue this until there is only one stitch left, which you will knit.

Knitting the row- For the repeat row, simply slip one, yarn forward, slip one, then brioche knit one - and repeat this to the last stitch, which will also be knit. Once you have reached the desired length, it's important to bind off loosely in a k1, p1 rib pattern, making sure to work all slipped stitches together with their yarn-overs.

Bind off – Binding off the Brioche stitch pattern requires its own techniques

Though there are several helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind when beginning to knit brioche stitch.

[if !supportLists]1. [endif]It's best to use a needle size smaller than the one mentioned on the yarn label and choose a yarn that retains its shape - a wool blend or non-superwash wool is recommended - as Brioche knitting produces a highly elastic fabric.

[if !supportLists]2. [endif]Also, keep in mind that Brioche stitch patterns will use twice as much yarn as a standard knitting project, so make sure to have plenty of skeins available and, of course, remember to always start with a gauge swatch.

[if !supportLists]3. [endif]Lastly, use a loose cast-on and bind-off technique, one size larger than the needle you're using for the project, and be sure to block your project with precision tools and weave in any yarn ends with darning needles (a size smaller than the knitting needle) once finished.

With these few tips and tricks, you can begin knitting your own Brioche stitch patterns. Start with a swatch and then move on to a basic pattern like a scarf or hat. If you're feeling confident, why not even try a two-color Brioche? It may actually be easier to read the knitting and more enjoyable to work with! The Mindful Knitting collection has everything you need to have a smooth and successful knitting experience - so why not give it a try today?

Brioche or any other stitch pattern or technique, the Mindful Collection has everything you need to assist with a smooth experience. The stainless steel knitting needles are available in options of double-pointed, fixed circulars, and interchangeable and specially designed knitting needles sets. Enjoy your mindful knitting while learning new techniques and methods.