Expand your knitting repertoire by mastering the art of increasing stitches. This fundamental technique empowers you to create garments and accessories that fit perfectly, feature intricate patterns, and showcase your creativity. By incorporating increases into your projects, you can seamlessly transition from one size to another, add shaping, or embrace complex lacework. The ability to increase stitches is essential for enhancing the versatility and visual appeal of your knitted masterpieces. Engage in this easy-to-follow guide and unlock the secrets to effortless stitch manipulation.
The most common method of increasing stitches is the knit front and back (KFB), also known as the make one. This technique involves skillfully knitting into the front and back loops of the same stitch, effectively creating two stitches from one. Execute this maneuver by inserting your right-hand needle into the front loop of a stitch, as if you were going to knit it. However, instead of pulling through, let the loop remain on the left-hand needle. Next, reinsert the right-hand needle into the back loop of the same stitch and knit this loop in the traditional manner. This simple yet effective technique will instantly increase your stitch count without compromising the integrity or aesthetics of your fabric. Experience the joy of shaping and expanding your knitted creations with the KFB technique.
Alternatively, embrace the lesser-known but equally versatile method of increasing stitches: the knit two together (K2tog). This technique, often employed to decrease stitches, can also be harnessed to increase the stitch count by working it differently. Instead of knitting two stitches together as usual, slip the first stitch onto the right-hand needle, knit the second stitch, and then pass the slipped stitch over the newly knitted stitch. This clever maneuver effectively turns one stitch into two, providing a less conspicuous increase compared to the KFB method. Experiment with both the KFB and K2tog techniques to determine which one best suits your specific project and desired outcome. Unlock the power of stitch manipulation and witness your knitting skills soar to new heights.
Counting Stitches
Counting stitches is essential for successful knitting. It ensures that you have the correct number of stitches for the pattern, maintain even tension, and avoid mistakes. Here are some tips for accurate stitch counting:
Use Stitch Markers
Stitch markers are small plastic rings or other devices that can be placed on the knitting needles to mark the beginnings and ends of rows, as well as specific stitch counts. This makes it easier to keep track of progress and avoid losing count when working across wide sections.
Focus on One Stitch at a Time
Avoid trying to count multiple stitches simultaneously. Instead, concentrate on counting one stitch at a time, sliding the needle or a spare needle over each stitch as you count it. This prevents mistakes and ensures accuracy.
Knit in Good Lighting
Poor lighting can make it difficult to see the stitches clearly, leading to errors. Knit in a well-lit area where you can easily distinguish the individual stitches.
Use a Stitch Counter
For larger projects or sections with a high stitch count, consider using a stitch counter. These mechanical or electronic devices keep track of the number of stitches you have knitted, eliminating the need for manual counting.
Knit in a Consistent Tension
Maintaining even tension helps prevent stitches from stretching or shrinking, which can make it challenging to count accurately. Practice knitting at a consistent tension and avoid pulling too tightly or loosely on the yarn.
By following these tips, you can improve your stitch counting skills and enhance your overall knitting accuracy.
Increasing in the Middle of a Row
To increase stitches in the middle of a row, you can use the “make one” (m1) technique. This technique creates a new stitch by splitting an existing stitch into two. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to perform an m1 increase:
Step-by-Step Guide to Making One (m1) Increase:
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Locate the stitch where you want to increase: Identify the stitch in the middle of the row where you wish to create the new stitch.
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Insert the needle: Insert your left-hand needle into the same stitch from front to back, as if to knit.
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Wrap the yarn forward: Bring the yarn forward onto the left-hand needle and wrap it around from back to front.
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Knit the new stitch: Knit the new stitch off the left-hand needle as you would a regular stitch.
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Tighten the yarn: Gently pull the yarn through the stitch to tighten it.
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Continue knitting: Continue knitting the rest of the row as per the pattern.
By following these steps, you can successfully increase the number of stitches in the middle of a row using the "make one" technique. The resulting increase will appear as a small loop or "bump" between the two stitches where the increase was made.
Increasing at the Beginning of a Row
The most basic way to increase stitches is at the beginning of a row. This is often used to create a gradual slope or flare in your knitting.
To increase at the beginning of a row, simply knit two stitches into the first stitch on your needle. This will create two stitches where there was only one before.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to increasing stitches at the beginning of a row:
- Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit.
- Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull it through the stitch.
- Slip the original stitch off the left-hand needle.
- Insert the right-hand needle into the new stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit.
- Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull it through the stitch.
- Slip the new stitch off the left-hand needle.
You have now increased one stitch at the beginning of the row.
You can increase as many stitches as you need at the beginning of a row. Simply repeat the steps above for each additional stitch you want to increase.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for increasing stitches at the beginning of a row:
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit. |
| 2 | Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull it through the stitch. |
| 3 | Slip the original stitch off the left-hand needle. |
| 4 | Insert the right-hand needle into the new stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit. |
| 5 | Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull it through the stitch. |
| 6 | Slip the new stitch off the left-hand needle. |
Increasing at the End of a Row
This method of increasing stitches involves adding a stitch at the very end of the row. It’s a straightforward technique that can be used in various knitting patterns.
To increase at the end of a row:
1. Knit all stitches on the row until only the last stitch remains on the left-hand needle.
2. Bring the yarn forward between the needles, as if you were about to knit the last stitch.
3. Hold the yarn in this position and insert the right-hand needle into the back loop of the last stitch.
4. Wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle in a clockwise motion, as follows:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 4.1 | Insert the right-hand needle through the back loop of the last stitch, from left to right. |
| 4.2 | Bring the yarn forward, wrapping it around the back of the needle in a clockwise direction. |
| 4.3 | Pull the wrapped yarn through the back loop of the last stitch and onto the right-hand needle. |
5. Knit the newly created stitch.
Increasing with a Yarn Over
Increasing with a yarn over is a simple technique that can be used to add stitches to your knitting. It is often used to create shaping, such as increasing the width of a garment or creating a curved edge. To increase with a yarn over, simply insert the left-hand needle into the next stitch on the right-hand needle, as if you were going to knit. Then, wrap the yarn around the left-hand needle from back to front. Finally, pull the wrapped yarn through the stitch to create a new stitch. The new stitch will be located between the two original stitches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Insert the left-hand needle into the next stitch on the right-hand needle, as if you were going to knit.
- Wrap the yarn around the left-hand needle from back to front.
- Pull the wrapped yarn through the stitch to create a new stitch.
- The new stitch will be located between the two original stitches.
Tips
- When increasing with a yarn over, it is important to wrap the yarn around the back of the needle. This will help to prevent the new stitch from being too loose.
- If you are increasing at the beginning or end of a row, you will need to wrap the yarn around the needle twice. This will create a new stitch at the beginning or end of the row.
- You can use a yarn over to increase in any stitch pattern. However, it is important to note that increasing with a yarn over will always create a hole in the fabric.
Summary
Increasing with a yarn over is a simple and versatile technique that can be used to add stitches to your knitting. It is often used to create shaping or to change the stitch pattern. By following the step-by-step instructions above, you can easily master this technique.
Increasing with a Knit Front and Back
This method creates a new stitch from the front and back of the existing stitch. Follow these steps:
- Slip the stitch onto the right-hand needle.
- Hold the yarn behind the slipped stitch.
- Insert the left-hand needle into the front of the stitch, from left to right.
- Hook the yarn onto the left-hand needle.
- Lift the new loop through the stitch to create a new stitch on the left-hand needle.
- Slip the original stitch back onto the left-hand needle.
To create an increase on the next row, work a knit stitch into the front and back of the newly created stitch. This technique is often used to create symmetrical increases, such as when shaping the neckline or armholes of a garment.
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Knit Front and Back |
|
Increasing with a Slip, Knit, Pass
This technique, often abbreviated as “sl1-k1-psso”, allows you to add a stitch without creating a hole or gap in your knitting.
Steps
1. Slip the next stitch on the left-hand needle (LH) to the right-hand needle (RH) without knitting it.
2. Knit the next stitch on the LH.
3. Return the slipped stitch to the LH.
4. Pass the knitted stitch over the slipped stitch.
5. The new stitch is now on the RH.
6. Repeat these steps for each stitch you want to increase.
7. **Detailed Explanation for Step 7:**
To pass the knitted stitch over the slipped stitch, hold the slipped stitch in front of the knitted stitch with the RH and the needles parallel. With the LH, gently pull the knitted stitch over the slipped stitch and off the RH needle. The new stitch will now be on the RH, and the slipped stitch will no longer be on the needle.
Increasing with a Wrap and Turn
This method is used to increase one stitch at the beginning or end of a row. To increase at the beginning, follow these steps:
- Wrap the yarn around the left-hand needle from back to front.
- Insert the right-hand needle into the stitch on the left-hand needle as if to knit.
- Knit the wrapped stitch.
To increase at the end of a row, follow these steps:
- Slip the last stitch on the left-hand needle purlwise.
- Wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle from front to back.
- Insert the left-hand needle into the wrapped stitch as if to knit, and purl it.
Increasing for a Raglan Sleeve
Raglan sleeves are created by increasing stitches in a specific pattern to create a diagonal line from shoulder to underarm. The following table outlines the number of stitches to increase for different raglan sleeve configurations:
Raglan Sleeve Configuration Number of Stitches to Increase Standard 1 per row Half Raglan 2 per row Three-Quarter Raglan 3 per row Full Raglan 4 per row To increase for a raglan sleeve, follow the steps for increasing at the beginning or end of a row, as described above.
Additional notes:
- Increasing with a wrap and turn creates a small hole in the fabric, so it should be used sparingly.
- If increasing multiple stitches in a row, it is important to space them evenly.
- Always be careful not to twist the stitches when increasing.
Increasing with a Make One
The make one (m1) increase is a simple and versatile technique for adding stitches to your knitting. To perform an m1 increase, follow these steps:
- Insert your left-hand needle into the next stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit it.
- Wrap the yarn around the left-hand needle from back to front.
- Withdraw the left-hand needle from the stitch, bringing the new loop through the stitch.
- Place the new loop on the left-hand needle.
The m1 increase can be used in a variety of patterns, including:
- Increasing at the beginning of a row
- Increasing at the end of a row
- Increasing in the middle of a row
Increasing at the Beginning of a Row
To increase at the beginning of a row using an m1, simply insert the left-hand needle into the first stitch on the row, wrap the yarn around the needle, and withdraw the needle, bringing the new loop through the stitch. The new loop will be the first stitch on the row.
Increasing at the End of a Row
To increase at the end of a row using an m1, simply knit the last stitch on the row, then insert the left-hand needle into the next stitch, wrap the yarn around the needle, and withdraw the needle, bringing the new loop through the stitch. The new loop will be the last stitch on the row.
Increasing in the Middle of a Row
To increase in the middle of a row using an m1, simply locate the stitch where you want to increase, then insert the left-hand needle into the next stitch, wrap the yarn around the needle, and withdraw the needle, bringing the new loop through the stitch. The new loop will be placed on the left-hand needle, and the original stitch will be placed on the right-hand needle.
| Technique | Used For |
|—|—|
| M1 | Increasing at the beginning, end, or middle of a row |
| M1L | Increasing at the left side of a stitch |
| M1R | Increasing at the right side of a stitch |
| M2 | Increasing two stitches at once |
| M3 | Increasing three stitches at once |Maintaining Stitch Count
Keeping an accurate stitch count is essential for successful knitting. Here are some tips to maintain the correct stitch count:
Count the stitches regularly: After completing a few rows, count the stitches to ensure you have the correct number. This will help you to identify any errors early on.
Use stitch markers: Place stitch markers at the beginning and end of each row to keep track of your starting and ending points. This will make it easier to count the stitches.
Mark every 10 stitches: To prevent losing count over long rows, mark every 10 stitches with a different color of yarn or stitch marker. This will help you to break down the row into smaller sections, making it easier to count.
Use a stitch counter: A stitch counter is a small device that can be used to keep track of the number of stitches you have completed. This can be especially helpful for complex patterns or large projects.
Count the stitches in the pattern: Before starting to knit, count the number of stitches in the pattern to ensure it matches the number of stitches you have cast on.
Check the stitch count after making changes: If you increase or decrease the number of stitches, be sure to count the stitches again to ensure the correct stitch count is maintained.
Use a row counter: A row counter can be used to keep track of the number of rows you have completed. This can help you to stay organized and avoid losing track of your progress.
Be patient and don’t rush: Counting stitches accurately takes time and practice. Don’t rush the process and be patient to avoid making mistakes.
Use a table to track your stitch count: Create a table with the following columns: row number, stitch count, and notes. Fill in the table as you knit to keep track of your progress and identify any potential issues.
Row Number Stitch Count Notes 1 20 Started knitting 10 30 Increased 10 stitches 20 40 Increased 10 stitches 30 50 Increased 10 stitches How To Increase Stitches When Knitting
There are two main ways to increase stitches when knitting: by knitting into the front and back of a stitch, or by knitting two stitches into one. Both methods will create an extra stitch on the needle, but the appearance of the increase will be slightly different.
To increase by knitting into the front and back of a stitch, simply knit into the front loop of the stitch, then turn the work and knit into the back loop of the same stitch. This will create a new stitch that is identical to the original stitch.
To increase by knitting two stitches into one, simply insert the left-hand needle into the next stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit. yarn over the right-hand needle, then pull the yarn through the stitch. Slip the new stitch onto the right-hand needle, then knit the next stitch on the left-hand needle. This will create a new stitch that is slightly smaller than the original stitches.
People Also Ask About How To Increase Stitches When Knitting
Why would I want to increase stitches when knitting?
There are several reasons why you might want to increase stitches when knitting. For example, you might want to increase the width of a garment, or you might want to create a shaped edge. Increasing stitches can also be used to create decorative effects, such as eyelets or lace.
How do I choose which method of increasing to use?
The best method of increasing to use will depend on the desired effect. If you want to create an invisible increase, then knitting into the front and back of a stitch is a good option. If you want to create a more obvious increase, then knitting two stitches into one is a good option.
Can I increase stitches in any row?
No, you cannot increase stitches in any row. Increases can only be made on right-side rows. If you try to increase on a wrong-side row, the increase will be twisted and will not look correct.
