Have you ever found yourself admiring the smooth, V-shaped texture of a knitted sweater or scarf, only to remember that you’re more comfortable with a crochet hook than a pair of knitting needles? If that sounds familiar, you’re going to love this. There’s a whole world of crochet stitches that mimic the look of knitting, blending the structure and ease of crochet with the soft, stretchy finish of knit fabric. It’s a perfect fusion that gives you the best of both crafts — and you don’t have to learn an entirely new skill set to get started.
This technique is all about using smart stitch placement and certain types of stitches that replicate the appearance of knit stitches, especially the classic stockinette stitch. The most popular one is called the waistcoat stitch, often referred to as the crochet knit stitch. When worked correctly, it creates rows of neat little V’s that look almost identical to what you’d see in a knitted piece. Another great option is the slip stitch in back loops only, which creates a ribbed, knit-like texture that’s great for cuffs, collars, or even full garments if you like a tighter, more elastic fabric.
What makes these stitches really special is how they allow crocheters to explore a whole new aesthetic without having to pick up knitting needles. The waistcoat stitch, for example, is simply a modified single crochet — but when you insert your hook into the center of the “V” instead of the top loops, magic happens. It creates a denser, more structured fabric with that iconic knit look. There’s also Tunisian crochet, which opens up even more knit-like textures and patterns, and is especially great for larger pieces like blankets or cardigans.
So if you’ve been itching to create garments or accessories that have that soft, drapey knit vibe but you’re loyal to your crochet hook, this is your sign to experiment. Whether you’re crafting cozy hats, textured sweaters, or sleek home decor, these knit-look stitches will give your work a polished, modern look — and impress anyone who sees it. You don’t need to switch tools to get that beautiful knit finish. Just a little tweak in your crochet technique, and suddenly, it’s a whole new world of creative possibilities.
Tutorial and photos of this crochet stitch by: Nadezhda Lab.