This design is the fifth of a series—twelve explorations of different knit-purl stitch patterns throughout 2025. The simple “Hurdle” stitch pattern is quite likely my favourite stitch pattern for a scarf. You can easily customize the instructions for the sample square to get the ideal width and length for your own scarf. Add ribbed hems and side edges, like we did in February, if you’d prefer. The project this month is a little slipover knit in simple rectangles with a square neckline and no other shaping. The pattern document includes general instructions for working the Hurdle stitch flat and in the round, as well as specific instructions for a sample square, and a baby slipover. It also includes a few designer ideas to help inspire your own designs featuring the Hurdle stitch pattern.

The little slipover is a good project for knitters making their first garment, as there is no shoulder shaping and the square neckline requires nothing more difficult than binding off the centre stitches at the front of the vest. Simple eyelets create the buttonholes on one shoulder of garment.

The techniques you will need to know, or learn, to complete this project are:

• cast on and bind-off;
• knit and purl;
• yo increase;
• k2tog decrease;
• seaming vertical edges and horizontal, bound-off edges;
• placing and sewing on buttons.