Pangolin Scales Knit Stitch: Free Pattern and Video Tutorial

Hannah Reed

4 years ago · Updated 2 weeks ago

The pangolin scales stitch from Crazy Hands Knitting & Crochet creates rows of small raised scales that overlap like the armor of the animal it is named after. It looks complicated, but the pattern repeats over only four rows, and the video tutorial below walks you through every step at a comfortable pace.
Swatch of the pangolin scales knit stitch in lilac yarn

Images and patterns courtesy of Crazy Hands Knitting & Crochet

Pangolin Scales Stitch at a Glance

Designer: Crazy Hands Knitting & Crochet
Cast on: a multiple of 4 stitches, plus 3, plus 2 selvage stitches
Pattern repeat: 4 rows
Techniques: knit, purl, yarn overs, drawing up a loop between stitches, k2tog and skpo decreases
Yarn used in the sample: Lanoso Bebe Masal, a 100% acrylic yarn in weight category 4
Needles used in the sample: 4 mm (US 6)
Video length: about 8 minutes

How the Stitch Works

Each scale is built from a combination of yarn overs and a loop drawn up between two stitches, which adds extra fabric in one spot. Decreases (k2tog and skpo) then pull those extra stitches back in, so the stitch count stays the same from one repeat to the next. The yarn overs also leave small eyelets, which give the fabric a light, airy look between the scales.
Working a row of the pangolin scales knit stitch on the needles
The selvage stitch on each side is worked the same way on every row, which keeps the edges straight and tidy.

Tips for Learning the Pangolin Scales Stitch

Knit a test swatch first. Cast on a small number of stitches that fits the multiple and work a few repeats before starting a bigger project. You will learn the rhythm of the four rows much faster this way.
Use a smooth, light-colored yarn. The scales show up best in a plain yarn without a fuzzy halo, and a lighter color makes it easier to see where to draw up the loop.
Mark the first row of the repeat. A removable stitch marker or a short piece of scrap yarn helps you keep track of where each repeat begins.

25 of The Best & Loveliest Knitting Stitches ebook

From the Urbaki Store

Learning new stitches? Get 25 of the best knitting stitches in one illustrated guide.

An illustrated page for every project with a direct link to the free pattern, plus 2 printable bonus guides. Free updates and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

See what's inside →

🧶 New: The Knitting Club opens in January, one project a month with weekly help. Join the free waitlist for a founding-member price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I make with this stitch?
The textured fabric works well for flat pieces such as blankets, scarves, cushion covers or the front of a sweater. Knit a swatch with your yarn first to see how the texture looks before choosing a project.
Do I need any special techniques?
Only basic ones: knit, purl, yarn overs and two common decreases (k2tog and skpo). The one step that may be new to you is drawing up a loop between two stitches, and the video shows it close up.

Enjoy This Video Tutorial About Knitting

Source: Crazy Hands Knitting & Crochet

If You Like Knitting, Then You Will LOVE This Ebook, Click Here and Discover it!

Did you find this post useful or inspiring? Save THIS PIN to your Knitting Board on Pinterest! 😊

Pangolin scales knit stitch pin

More from Crazy Hands Knitting & Crochet

Hannah Reed

Hi, I’m Hannah! I’m a firm believer that there’s no problem a cup of tea and a few rows of knitting can’t fix. I’m not a professional designer; I’m just a girl obsessed with soft textures and the magic of turning a ball of yarn into something wearable. From my first (very wonky) scarf to my current projects, I love sharing the cozy highs and the 'oops, I dropped a stitch' lows of my knitting journey. Let’s grab our needles and make something handmade together!