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As the name indicates, Ladder Stitch Pattern, this knit and purl stitch pattern creates a fabric that gives the illusion of a ladder going up the fabric.
In fact, the running columns of knit stitches are achieved by just transposing one stitch on two rows (rows 5 and 6).
Actually, this simple break in the pattern repeat creates the lovely ladder effect, resulting in a delightful texture on the front of the fabric.
Furthermore, it also creates a beautiful pattern on the reverse side. As a matter of fact, it looks a bit like a basketweave stitch pattern.
So, even though this not a fully reversible pattern, it lends itself well to projects that have two public sides. For instance, it will give a lot of interest to a scarf. Equally, it would make a lovely baby blanket.

Techniques Needed For Ladder Stitch Pattern
Abbreviation Description Tutorial
k knit Knit Stitch Continental Style
Knit Stitch English Style
p purl Purl Stitch Continental Style
Purl Stitch English Style
Other Abbreviations Used
ws wrong side
rs right side
rep repeat
st(s) stitch(es)
Instructions (Knitted Flat)
Multiple of 8 + 5
Row 1 (RS): K5, * p3, k5; rep from * to end
Row 2: P5, * k3, p5; rep from * to end
Row 3: K5, * p3, k5; rep from * to end
Row 4: P5, * k3, p5; rep from * to end
Row 5: K1, * p3, k5; rep from * to last 4 sts, p3, k1
Row 6: P1, * k3, p5; rep from * to last 4 sts, k3, p1
Row 7: K1, * p3, k5; rep from * to last 4 sts, p3, k1
Row 8: P1, * k3, p5; rep from * to last 4 sts, k3, p1
Repeat rows 1 – 8 until the desired length is reached.