How to read a knitting chart
A knitting chart is a picture of your fabric. Learn to read the grid, the symbols, and which way to go, flat and in the round, with clear examples.
By Sofia AkramiKnyt Co-founder and editor
A knitting chart is a grid where each square represents one stitch and each symbol tells you how to work that stitch: you read it from the bottom up, right-side rows from right to left and wrong-side rows from left to right. Charts look intimidating but are often easier than written instructions, because the chart visually resembles the finished fabric: you can see the pattern taking shape.
This guide explains the grid, the direction of travel, and the common symbols.
Why charts exist (and why they're worth learning)
Written instructions describe the fabric in words; a chart shows it. For colourwork, lace, and cables, a chart lets you see at a glance where you are and what comes next, and spot a mistake because the picture stops matching your knitting. Many knitters who "hate charts" simply haven't been shown the two rules below.
The two rules of reading a chart
1. Read from the bottom up. The first row you knit is the bottom row of the chart. You work upward, exactly as the fabric grows on your needles.
2. Direction alternates with the side you're on:
- Right-side (RS) rows: read right to left, the same direction the stitches sit on your needle.
- Wrong-side (WS) rows: read left to right, because you've turned the work.
Charts usually number the rows up the side: odd numbers (RS) on the right edge, even numbers (WS) on the left. Following the row numbers keeps you going the correct direction automatically.
Knitting a chart in the round
When you knit in the round, every round is a right-side round, so you read every row right to left, with no alternating. This is one reason colourwork is so often worked in the round. (Knitting in the round →)
Reading the grid
- Each square = one stitch.
- Each row of squares = one row (or round).
- A bold outline around a block of squares marks the repeat: the section you work over and over across the row. Stitches outside the repeat are edge/selvedge stitches worked once.
- A key (legend) beside or below the chart defines every symbol. Always read the key first, because symbols can vary slightly between designers.
Common knitting chart symbols
Most designers follow the Craft Yarn Council standard symbols. A blank or simple square almost always means knit on the right side. Typical examples:
| Symbol (typical) | Means |
|---|---|
blank / ·-free square |
Knit on RS rows (purl on WS) |
dot • |
Purl on RS rows (knit on WS) |
O |
Yarn over (yo): adds a stitch + a hole |
/ |
k2tog: right-leaning decrease |
\ |
ssk: left-leaning decrease |
Λ / ▲ |
central double decrease |
| V | slip stitch / make stitch (check key) |
| coloured squares | use that colour (in colourwork charts) |
| arrows / brackets over several squares | cable: cross this many stitches in the shown direction |
Always defer to the chart's own key. A symbol that means "purl" in one pattern can mean something else in another. The key is the source of truth.
Colourwork vs lace vs cable charts
- Colourwork (fair isle) charts use one colour per square; you read the colour, not a technique. The picture literally is the motif.
- Lace charts combine yarn-overs and decreases; the symbols show where holes and leans go. Empty "no stitch" squares are sometimes greyed out to keep the grid aligned.
- Cable charts use wide symbols spanning several squares to show stitches crossing left or right, usually with a cable needle. (Knit chart symbols reference →)
Frequently asked questions
Which way do you read a knitting chart?
From the bottom up. On right-side rows read right to left; on wrong-side rows read left to right. When knitting in the round, read every round right to left.
Do you read a knitting chart right to left?
On right-side (odd) rows, yes: right to left. On wrong-side (even) rows you reverse and read left to right. Following the row numbers up the sides keeps the direction correct.
What does a blank square mean on a knitting chart?
Usually "knit" on a right-side row (and purl on the wrong side), but always confirm with the chart's key, as conventions vary.
What is the bold box on a knitting chart?
It marks the repeat: the block of stitches you work over and over across the row. Stitches outside it are edge stitches worked only once.
Are knitting charts better than written instructions?
Neither is "better". Many patterns include both. Charts make colourwork, lace and cables easier to track visually; written instructions can be easier for simple textured patterns. Use whichever you find clearer.
Co-founder and editor of Knyt. Avid knitter!
