Unlock the secrets of knitting expansion with our comprehensive guide on how to increase a stitch. Whether you’re a novice knitter seeking to enhance your skills or an experienced crafter exploring new techniques, this step-by-step tutorial will empower you to effortlessly create seamless increases that elevate your knitted creations.
The art of increasing a stitch involves adding an extra loop to the working row, effectively widening the fabric. By understanding the basic methods of yarn overs and knitting into the back of a stitch, you’ll master this fundamental knitting technique. Embark on a knitting journey where your projects flourish with intricate patterns and artistic embellishments made possible through the power of increasing stitches.
Transitioning from the introductory paragraph, let’s delve into the practical aspects of increasing a stitch. The most common methods, yarn overs and knitting into the back of a stitch, provide versatile options for expanding your knitted fabric. In the subsequent paragraphs, we’ll explore each technique in detail, guiding you through the steps with clear instructions and illuminating illustrations. Embrace the world of knitting with confidence, knowing that the secrets of increasing stitches are now at your fingertips.
Understanding Stitch Basics
The fundamental building block of knitting is the stitch. Stitches are created by looping yarn onto a knitting needle, and they can be classified into two basic types: knit stitches and purl stitches. Each stitch has a specific appearance and purpose.
**Knit Stitches**
are the most basic type of stitch and are created by passing the working yarn over the right-hand needle and then pulling it through the stitch on the left-hand needle. Knit stitches form a series of vertical lines on the fabric.
**Purl Stitches**
are created by passing the working yarn behind the right-hand needle and then pulling it through the stitch on the left-hand needle. Purl stitches form a series of horizontal lines on the fabric and are often used to create texture and interest.
**Stitch Gauge**
Refers to the number of stitches and rows in a square inch of knitting. Stitch gauge is important because it determines the finished size of a knitted item. Different yarns and needle sizes will result in different stitch gauges.
| Stitch Type | Appearance | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Knit Stitch | Vertical lines | Basic stitch |
| Purl Stitch | Horizontal lines | Creates texture and interest |
Preparing Your Needles and Yarn
Before you begin knitting, you need to prepare your needles and yarn. Here’s how:
Choosing the Right Needles
Knitting needles come in a variety of sizes, from the smallest sizes used for lace knitting to the largest sizes used for bulky yarns. The size of the needles you choose will depend on the yarn you are using. As a general rule of thumb, the thicker the yarn, the larger the needles you will need.
To determine the correct needle size for your yarn, you can refer to the label on the yarn skein. Most yarn labels will recommend a range of needle sizes that are suitable for the yarn. You can also try out different needle sizes to see which ones produce the fabric texture you like best.
Winding the Yarn
Once you have chosen the right needles, you need to wind the yarn into a ball. This will make it easier to knit with and will help prevent tangles. To wind the yarn, you can use a yarn winder or you can wind it by hand.
If you are using a yarn winder, follow the instructions that came with the winder. If you are winding the yarn by hand, here are the steps:
- Make a slip knot in the end of the yarn and put it on one of the needles.
- Hold the other end of the yarn in your hand and start winding it around the needle, making sure to keep the yarn taut.
- When the needle is full, slip the ball of yarn off the needle and repeat the process until all of the yarn has been wound.
Identifying the Increase Point
To determine where to increase a stitch, consider the following factors:
1. Row Type
In knitting, there are two types of rows: knit rows and purl rows. The increase point is typically placed at the end of a knit row or at the beginning of a purl row, depending on the desired outcome.
2. Position within the Row
Once you have identified the row type, decide where within the row you want to increase the stitch. This can be at the beginning, middle, or end of the row, depending on the desired effect.
3. Identifying the Knitted Stitch
You need to look closely at the stitches in the row where you want to increase. Identify a knitted stitch that is not on the edge of the work. This will be the stitch into which you will insert the knitting needle to create the new stitch.
| Stitch Type | Appearance | How to Identify |
|---|---|---|
| Knit Stitch |  |
V-shaped loop on the front of the work |
| Purl Stitch |  |
Ridge on the front of the work |
Once you have identified the knitted stitch where you want to increase, you can proceed to the actual increase method.
The Single Increase: KFB (Knit Front, Back)
The KFB increase is a simple and versatile technique for creating an extra stitch in your knitting. It’s achieved by knitting into the front loop of the next stitch, then continuing to knit into the back loop of the same stitch. This creates a new stitch between the two existing ones.
To perform a KFB, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Stitch
Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch on the left-hand needle from front to back, as if to knit.
Step 2: Knit Front Loop
Knit into the front loop of the stitch.
Step 3: Knit Back Loop
Without removing the left-hand needle, slide the stitch back onto the left-hand needle and knit into the back loop of the same stitch. This creates a new stitch between the front and back loops.
Step 4: Complete the Increase
Allow the original stitch to drop off the left-hand needle. You now have two stitches where there was only one before.
The following table summarizes the steps involved in the KFB increase:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch on the left-hand needle from front to back. |
| 2 | Knit into the front loop of the stitch. |
| 3 | Slide the stitch back onto the left-hand needle and knit into the back loop of the same stitch. |
| 4 | Allow the original stitch to drop off the left-hand needle. |
The Double Increase: Increase Two (M1)
The double increase is a versatile technique that creates two new stitches out of one existing stitch. It involves lifting the horizontal bar, or “yarn over,” between two stitches and knitting it together to form a new stitch. Then, the new stitch is knit again to create the second increase.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Locate the stitch you want to increase.
- Insert your right-hand needle into the stitch as if you were knitting it.
- Lift the horizontal yarn bar between the stitch you’re knitting and the next stitch.
- Transfer the yarn over to your left-hand needle and carefully separate it from the working yarn.
- Knit the yarn over to create a new stitch.
- Knit the newly created stitch again to form the second increase.
Tips:
- Make sure to lift the yarn over high enough to create a stitch of similar size to the surrounding stitches.
- Practice the double increase on a swatch before using it in a project.
- If you’re having trouble lifting the yarn over, try using a smaller hook or a crochet needle to assist you.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
| M1 | Double increase (increase two) |
The Triple Increase: Increase Three
To execute the triple increase, follow these steps:
1. Lift the bar to the right of the working needle.
Using the left-hand needle, lift the horizontal bar that connects the two stitches to the right of the working needle. This bar represents the next stitch in the row that you need to knit.
2. Slip the bar over the working needle.
Slide the lifted bar over the working needle, as if you were knitting a normal stitch. However, do not draw the yarn through the bar yet.
3. Knit through the front loop of the lifted bar.
Insert the tip of the right-hand needle into the front loop of the lifted bar (the loop closest to you) and draw the yarn through. You now have two stitches on your right-hand needle.
4. Lift the new stitch to the left-hand needle.
Using the left-hand needle, transfer the new stitch from the right-hand needle back to the left-hand needle. This will create a gap between the two existing stitches on the left-hand needle.
5. Knit into the back loop of the right-hand stitch.
Insert the tip of the right-hand needle into the back loop of the stitch on the right-hand needle (the loop farthest from you) and draw the yarn through. You now have three stitches on your right-hand needle.
6. Bind the three stitches together.
Insert the tip of the left-hand needle into the first stitch on the right-hand needle and pass it over the remaining two stitches on the right-hand needle. This will bind the three stitches together and create a single stitch.
| Stitch Count Before Triple Increase | Stitch Count After Triple Increase |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3 |
Yarn Over (YO)
To yarn over, insert the right-hand needle into the front of the stitch below the next stitch on the left-hand needle. Hook the yarn and pull it through, creating a loop on the right-hand needle. This loop will become a new stitch.
Lift and Knit (LK)
Insert the right-hand needle into the back of the next stitch on the left-hand needle as if to knit. Lift the yarn up and over the needle, creating a new loop. Knit this new loop.
Knit Front and Back (KFB)
Knit into the front of the next stitch on the left-hand needle. Then, insert the right-hand needle into the back of the same stitch and knit it again. This creates two new stitches.
Knit Through Back Loop (Ktbl)
Insert the right-hand needle into the back loop of the next stitch on the left-hand needle. Knit this loop normally.
Slip Slip Knit (SSK)
Slip the next two stitches on the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle, one at a time, without knitting them. Then, knit the two stitches together.
Center Slip Stitch (CSS)
Insert the right-hand needle to the center of the next stitch on the left-hand needle. Slip this stitch to the right-hand needle, then slip the next stitch onto the right-hand needle. Remove the first stitch from the right-hand needle and knit the second stitch.
Preventing Gaps and Distortions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Gaps between stitches | Ensure that the new stitch is pulled tightly enough, but not so tightly that it distorts the surrounding stitches. Check for any missed stitches or dropped loops that could create gaps. Use a smaller needle size or a heavier yarn to reduce the size of the gaps. |
| Distortions in the fabric | Insert the right-hand needle into the correct loop or part of the stitch to avoid distorting the fabric. Avoid pulling the new stitch too tightly or unevenly. Practice the increase technique to develop muscle memory and improve accuracy. |
| Uneven tension | Maintain consistent tension throughout the row. Use a tension gauge or a calibrated knitting machine to ensure uniform tension. Practice knitting evenly to avoid variations in stitch size and tension. |
Practicing on a Swatch
Before attempting this technique on a real project, it’s a good idea to practice on a swatch. This will allow you to get a feel for the process and make any necessary adjustments without ruining the actual item you’re knitting.
To practice, cast on a small number of stitches (about 10-15) and knit a few rows. Then, follow the steps outlined in this article for creating an increase. Once you’ve successfully completed the increase, bind off all the stitches and start over with a fresh swatch to practice again.
Repeating this process a few times will help you build confidence and proficiency in increasing stitches. Once you’re comfortable with the technique, you can move on to practicing it on a larger project.
8. Pull the Yarn Through the New Loop
Once you have created the new loop, you’ll need to pull the yarn through it to complete the increase. To do this, gently insert the tip of your right-hand needle into the new loop from behind, as shown in the diagram below.
Once the needle is in the loop, use your left hand to hook the yarn over the needle, as shown in the diagram below.
Then, gently pull the yarn through the loop and onto the right-hand needle, as shown in the diagram below.
The new stitch is now complete and will appear on your right-hand needle. Continue knitting as usual with the increased number of stitches.
| Before | After |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Incorporating Increases into Your Pattern
Once you master the basic knit and purl stitches, incorporating increases into your knitting pattern becomes crucial for creating shaping and adding detail to your projects.
9. Cable Cast On Variations
Cable cast ons are a visually striking way to add stitches to your knitting. They create a twisted or braided effect that adds texture and interest to the fabric. Here are two popular variations:
| Cable Cast On (cco) | Cable Cast On with a Twist (ccowt) |
|---|---|
| Creates a classic twisted cord | Adds a twist to the cord, creating a more decorative effect |
| Slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and hold in front of the work | Slip 1 stitch onto a cable needle and hold in front of the work |
| Knit 1 stitch from the left-hand needle | Knit 1 stitch from the left-hand needle, then slip the stitch from the cable needle back onto the left-hand needle |
| Slip the stitches from the cable needle back onto the left-hand needle | Knit 1 stitch from the cable needle, then slip the stitch from the left-hand needle back onto the cable needle |
| Knit 2 stitches together through the back loops | Knit 1 stitch from the left-hand needle and slip it onto the right-hand needle |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
1. Dropped Stitch
If you accidentally drop a stitch, there are a few ways to recover. You can use a crochet hook to gently hook the dropped stitch back onto the needle, or you can use a knitting needle to ladder up, which involves carefully knitting one stitch at a time until you reach the dropped stitch.
2. Twisted Stitch
A twisted stitch occurs when the stitch is twisted on the needle, resulting in a bumpy or uneven texture. To fix a twisted stitch, gently twist the stitch back into the correct orientation using a knitting needle or crochet hook.
3. Hole in Knitting
A hole in knitting can be caused by a dropped stitch or an incorrect increase or decrease. To fix a hole, you can sew the edges together using a yarn needle or you can use the technique called “swiss darning” to create a new stitch.
4. Laddered Stitches
Laddered stitches occur when a series of stitches slip off the needle, creating a vertical line of holes. To fix laddered stitches, ladder up, knitting one stitch at a time until you reach the last slipped stitch.
5. Incorrect Increase or Decrease
If you increase or decrease incorrectly, it can result in a misshapen or uneven knitting pattern. To fix an incorrect increase or decrease, carefully undo the stitches until you reach the last correct stitch and follow the correct instructions.
6. Uneven Tension
Uneven tension can lead to a wobbly or inconsistent knitting pattern. To maintain even tension, try using a different needle size or yarn, and practice keeping a consistent grip on the needles.
7. Snagged Yarn
Snagged yarn can cause the knitting to become entangled or break. To prevent snagging, avoid sharp objects and gently pull the yarn through the stitches.
8. Split Stitches
Split stitches occur when a stitch is accidentally divided into two. To fix a split stitch, gently pull the yarn through the two loops on the needle and work as usual.
9. Inserting Needle in the Wrong Place
Inserting the needle in the wrong place can result in a hole or incorrect stitch. To avoid this, carefully examine the knitting pattern and insert the needle where indicated.
10. Yarn Barbs or Knots
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Yarn barbs or knots occur when the yarn is frayed or damaged. | Trim the barbs or cut the knot and re-attach the yarn using a yarn needle. |
How to Increase a Stitch While Knitting
Increasing a stitch in knitting is a technique used to add width to a piece of fabric. It involves creating a new stitch from the yarn between two existing stitches. By increasing stitches, knitters can shape and customize their projects to create a variety of patterns and garments.
There are two main methods for increasing a stitch: the knit increase and the purl increase. The knit increase is made by knitting into the front and back loops of the same stitch. The purl increase is made by knitting into the front and back loops of the next stitch, then purling into the back loop of the original stitch.
To increase a stitch, follow these steps:
- Insert your right-hand needle into the front loop of the stitch you want to increase.
- Pick up the yarn with your left-hand needle and pull it through the front loop.
- Slip the new loop onto your right-hand needle.
- Insert your right-hand needle into the back loop of the same stitch (or the next stitch for a purl increase).
- Pick up the yarn with your left-hand needle and pull it through the back loop.
- Slip the new loop onto your right-hand needle.
You have now created a new stitch. You can repeat these steps to increase as many stitches as you need.
People Also Ask About How to Increase a Stitch While Knitting
How do I increase a stitch in knitting?
To increase a stitch in knitting, you can use the knit increase or the purl increase. The knit increase is made by knitting into the front and back loops of the same stitch. The purl increase is made by knitting into the front and back loops of the next stitch, then purling into the back loop of the original stitch.
When should I increase a stitch in knitting?
You should increase a stitch in knitting when you want to add width to a piece of fabric. This can be done to create a variety of patterns and garments.
How many stitches should I increase?
The number of stitches you should increase depends on the desired width of the fabric. You can experiment with different numbers of increases to achieve the desired result.
How do I increase a stitch in the middle of a row?
To increase a stitch in the middle of a row, you can use the knit increase or the purl increase. The knit increase is made by knitting into the front and back loops of the stitch to the left of the desired increase point. The purl increase is made by knitting into the front and back loops of the stitch to the right of the desired increase point, then purling into the back loop of the stitch to the left of the increase point.
