To work the seed stitch pattern with an odd number of stitches cast on, you simply repeat the same row pattern on every row.
Understanding the Seed Stitch
Seed stitch is a textured knitting pattern that creates a fabric resembling scattered seeds. It's achieved by alternating knit (K) and purl (P) stitches. The key is that you work a knit stitch on top of a purl stitch from the previous row, and a purl stitch on top of a knit stitch.
Seed Stitch with Odd Stitches: The Pattern
When you have an odd number of stitches cast on, the pattern simplifies greatly because you repeat the same row instruction for every row.
According to the reference:
Row 1: K1, P 1, repeat to the last stitch and knit 1.
This means you:
- Start the row by knitting the first stitch.
- Purl the next stitch.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 across the row (K1, P1, K1, P1...).
- Because you have an odd number of stitches, you will end the row by knitting the very last stitch.
The reference also states: Even if you end with K1, you will begin with K1 again on the following row or round.
This is the crucial part for odd stitch counts:
- Row 1: K1, P1, K1, P1... K1 (ends with a knit)
- Row 2: K1, P1, K1, P1... K1 (starts with a knit, ends with a knit)
- Row 3: K1, P1, K1, P1... K1 (starts with a knit, ends with a knit)
- ...and so on for all subsequent rows.
By always starting and ending with a knit stitch when you have an odd number of stitches and alternating K1, P1 in between, you ensure that you place a purl stitch on top of the knit stitch from the row below and a knit stitch on top of the purl stitch from the row below, creating the characteristic seed stitch texture.
