What Is Entrelac Knitting?
Entrelac knitting is a technique that creates a textured, woven look by working interconnected rectangles or diamonds. It resembles a basketweave or woven patchwork but is achieved using standard knitting techniques. The word “entrelac” comes from French, meaning “interlaced,” which perfectly describes the final fabric’s appearance.
Unlike traditional flat knitting, where you work straight across the row, entrelac builds small sections of stitches that lean in different directions. This gives it a three-dimensional, textured surface. It’s an eye-catching method often used in scarves, blankets, bags, and garments.
Key Features of Entrelac Knitting
- Textured look: Mimics woven strips or baskets.
- Worked in tiers: Each section is built one at a time across rows.
- Directional stitching: Pieces lean left or right depending on the row.
- No seaming required: It’s knit continuously, despite the patchwork effect.
Entrelac is great for colorwork too. You can use self-striping yarn to create vivid effects without changing colors manually.
What You Need for Entrelac Knitting
Before you begin, gather the following:
- Yarn: Solid or variegated yarn works well. Worsted weight is a good start.
- Knitting needles: Match the yarn’s gauge.
- Stitch markers (optional): Helpful for beginners.
- Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends.
Understanding the Structure
Entrelac is made up of three basic elements:
- Base Triangles: These form the foundation row.
- Blocks (Rectangles): These alternate direction and build the main body.
- Top Triangles: These finish the piece with a straight edge.
Each block or triangle is worked using short rows, turning your work often. Once you understand how to pick up and decrease stitches, entrelac becomes a rhythm.
Step-by-Step Basics of Entrelac Knitting
Here’s how entrelac is usually built:
1. Base Triangles
Start by knitting several small triangles. These are made over a small number of stitches and help establish the first row of “blocks.”
- For example: cast on 30 stitches to make 5 triangles of 6 stitches each.
2. First Tier of Rectangles (Right-Leaning)
These rectangles are built by picking up stitches along the edges of the triangles. Each rectangle leans to the right and is worked over a limited number of stitches (like 6).
- Work short rows, picking up stitches from the base triangle’s edge as you go.
3. Second Tier of Rectangles (Left-Leaning)
These fill the spaces between the first tier. You pick up stitches in the opposite direction, working left-leaning rectangles.
4. Repeat Tiers
Alternate right and left-leaning blocks across tiers until the desired length is reached.
5. Top Triangles
Finish the piece with top triangles to smooth the edge and match the base.
Techniques Involved in Entrelac Knitting
- Short Rows: Turn your work before finishing the row to shape the blocks.
- Picking Up Stitches: Essential for connecting sections neatly.
- Decreases (e.g., SSK, k2tog): Used to shape triangles and rectangles.
- Turning Work Frequently: You’ll often turn your work mid-row, similar to garter stitch.
Entrelac with Color
Entrelac really shines with colorwork. Here are some options:
- Self-striping yarn: Creates colorful blocks with no effort.
- Multiple yarns: Change colors manually for bold contrast.
- Gradient effects: Fade from one color to another across tiers.
Color changes look even more dramatic because each block is knit individually, allowing for cleaner separation between tones.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice on a swatch: Try a small piece before starting a big project.
- Use stitch markers: To mark the start of each rectangle or triangle.
- Keep edges neat: Pick up stitches evenly and work decreases cleanly.
- Watch videos: Seeing the technique in action can help visualize the direction of the stitches.
Common Entrelac Projects
Here are a few ideas to showcase your entrelac knitting:
- Entrelac scarf: A classic beginner project using self-striping yarn.
- Baby blanket: Soft and textured, great for play or comfort.
- Hat or cowl: A unique twist on basic accessories.
- Bag or tote: Entrelac adds a sturdy and stylish finish.
Final Thoughts
Entrelac knitting may seem complex at first glance, but it’s a manageable technique once you understand the structure of blocks and how to work short rows. With a little patience and practice, you can create stunning textures that look woven or pieced together—without ever using a sewing needle.
Try it on a small project like a scarf or washcloth and enjoy the rhythmic, rewarding process of building your fabric block by block.