Introduction
Knitting in the round is a popular technique used in creating seamless garments like hats, cowls, socks, and more. By joining your knitting in the round, you eliminate the need for seaming at the end, resulting in a cleaner finish. In this article, we will discuss how to knit join in the round step by step.
Materials Needed
Before we get started, make sure you have the following materials on hand:
– Yarn
– Circular knitting needles
– Stitch markers
– Tapestry needle
– Scissors
Step-By-Step Guide
1. Cast on stitches
– Begin by casting on the required number of stitches onto your circular needles. Make sure your stitches are not twisted along the cable.
2. Join in the round
– After casting on, hold your needles so that the first and last stitch are next to each other. Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch.
– Take the tail of your yarn and place it over the needle in your right hand. This will prevent a gap from forming where you join.
– Knit the first stitch from the left needle, making sure to pull the yarn tight to close the gap.
3. Knit the first round
– Now that you have joined your work in the round, knit all the way around the first round. You can place another stitch marker to mark the beginning of your round if needed.
4. Continue knitting
– Knit each subsequent round, following your pattern instructions if you are following one. Remember to move your stitch marker up to mark the beginning of each round.
5. Working with double-pointed needles
– If you prefer using double-pointed needles instead of circular needles, divide your stitches evenly onto three or four needles. Use an additional needle to knit with.
Tips and Tricks
1. Using stitch markers
– Stitch markers are essential for keeping track of the beginning of your round, especially in larger projects. They can also help mark pattern repeats and decreases or increases.
2. Avoiding ladders
– To avoid gaps or ladders between your needles, make sure to pull your yarn tight after joining in the round and at the beginning of each needle.
3. Count your stitches
– Double-check your stitch count after joining in the round to ensure you haven’t accidentally dropped a stitch or added extra stitches.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
1. Twisted stitches
– It’s crucial to make sure your cast-on stitches are not twisted around the needle before joining in the round. If you notice a twist, unravel your work and start again.
2. Uneven tension
– Pay attention to your tension when joining in the round to avoid loose or tight stitches. Practice consistently to improve your tension.
3. Dropping stitches
– If you accidentally drop a stitch while knitting in the round, use your tapestry needle to pick it up and ladder it back onto your needles.
Conclusion
Knitting in the round can be a rewarding experience once you master the technique of joining seamlessly. By following the steps outlined in this guide and practicing regularly, you’ll soon be creating beautiful garments with ease. Remember to be patient with yourself and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – that’s how you learn and grow as a knitter. Happy knitting!
