Joining in the round is a common technique used in knitting to begin working in a circular fashion instead of back and forth rows. It is often used when creating items like hats, socks, and sweaters. Learning how to join in the round is essential for any knitter looking to expand their skills. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to successfully join in the round.
Materials Needed:
- Circular knitting needles
- Yarn of your choice
- Stitch markers
- Tapestry needle
Step-By-Step Guide on How To Join In The Round:
Follow these steps carefully to successfully join in the round:
Step 1: Cast On Stitches
Before joining in the round, you need to cast on the required number of stitches onto your circular needles. Make sure the stitches are not twisted around the needles.
Step 2: Place Marker
Place a stitch marker on the right-hand needle to indicate the beginning of the round. This will help you keep track of where the round starts and ends.
Step 3: Knit the First Stitch
Without twisting your cast-on stitches, knit the first stitch on the left-hand needle to connect the last and first stitches.
Step 4: Join In The Round
Now it’s time to actually join in the round. To do this, slide the stitches from the left-hand needle onto the right-hand needle. Make sure they are not twisted. The first and last stitches should now be connected.
Step 5: Adjust Tension
Make sure the stitches are not twisted and that the working yarn is coming from the last stitch on the right-hand needle. Adjust the tension if needed to ensure a smooth join.
Step 6: Continue Knitting
Now that you have successfully joined in the round, you can continue knitting in a circular fashion. Follow your pattern instructions and use stitch markers to mark any pattern repeats or changes.
Tips and Tricks for Joining In The Round:
- Double-check for twisted stitches: Before joining in the round, make sure all your cast-on stitches are oriented in the same direction.
- Use stitch markers: They help you keep track of where the round starts and ends, especially in more complex patterns.
- Avoid gaps: To prevent a gap from forming at the join, give the first stitch a little extra tug when knitting it.
- Practice makes perfect: If you’re a beginner, don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts at joining in the round are not perfect. With practice, you’ll get the hang of it.
Common Mistakes When Joining In The Round:
Here are some common mistakes you might encounter when joining in the round and how to avoid them:
- Twisted stitches: Make sure all your stitches are oriented in the same direction before joining in the round.
- Forgetting the stitch marker: Always place a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round.
- Gaps at the join: Give the first stitch a little extra tug to avoid gaps forming at the join.
- Uneven tension: Adjust the tension as needed to ensure a smooth join and consistent stitches.
Conclusion
Joining in the round is a fundamental skill for any knitter looking to work on circular projects. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided in this article, you can successfully join in the round and start creating beautiful circular knitted pieces. Remember to practice and be patient with yourself as you learn this technique. Happy knitting!
