This reversible stitch produces a bumpy, dotted texture resembling scattered seeds. It is worked by alternating knit and purl stitches across one row, then knitting the purl stitches and purling the knit stitches on the subsequent row. Because the alternating tension balances the fabric, it lies perfectly flat and prevents the curling edges typical of stockinette stitch.
Heard on the job
Cast on an even number of stitches and work the first six rows in seed stitch to keep the border from rolling.
Insider tip
Seed stitch is notorious for slowing down knitters because it requires moving the working yarn back and forth between every single stitch.