 |
| Photo above © Curious |
Photo above © Curious
Trinity Stitch, also known as Raspberry Stitch or Blackberry Stitch, is a beautifully textured knitting stitch that creates clusters of small raised bumps across the fabric.
The berry-like texture looks intricate, but it is built from a short repeating sequence of increases and decreases.
What Is Trinity Stitch?
Trinity Stitch creates its distinctive texture by increasing several stitches from one stitch and balancing that increase with a decrease that works several stitches together.
As the sequence is repeated and offset, the little clusters form the characteristic raspberry-like surface seen in the original sample above.
Trinity Stitch at a Glance
Also Known As: Raspberry Stitch, Blackberry Stitch
Texture: Raised, clustered and berry-like
Typical Repeat: 4 rows
Key Techniques: Multiple stitches worked into one stitch and purling stitches together
Good For: Scarves, cowls, blankets, pillows, washcloths and textured panels
How the Texture Is Created
The classic version combines two opposite movements: a three-stitch increase worked into one stitch and a purl-three-together (p3tog) decrease.
Alternating their positions creates the staggered clusters that give Trinity Stitch its distinctive appearance.
If p3tog feels difficult, avoid working with overly tight tension. Sharp needle tips can also make it easier to enter all three stitches at once.
Trinity, Raspberry or Blackberry Stitch?
Don't be surprised to see different names in knitting books and tutorials. Trinity Stitch, Raspberry Stitch and Blackberry Stitch are commonly used for this same general textured stitch family.
You may also find small variations in stitch multiples, edge stitches or the order in which the increase and decrease are worked. Always follow the version used by the specific project you are knitting.
See a Step-by-Step Tutorial
For knitters who prefer to see the technique demonstrated, Darn Good Yarn has a free Raspberry Stitch tutorial showing how the textured stitch is formed.
View the Raspberry / Trinity Stitch Tutorial →
More Knitting Stitch Guides
Editorial note: This Amazing Knitting page is an educational guide to the Trinity/Raspberry stitch family. Individual knitting patterns and tutorials may use slightly different variations, stitch multiples or edge treatments.