reblog

Hey, knitters! Are you looking forward to picking up a new skill, but confused about how to use it? We have got you covered. In your knitting journey, you may have seen many options to change the shape/width using increased stitches. It is one of the essential techniques; however, you must know where to use this method. This post will explore the different ways to increase the stitches with knitting needles and help you create various projects with them.

What do you mean by increased stitches in knitting and when to use it?

In knitting, increase means adding a stitch to the row. But it mostly depends on the project you are working on. Let’s take an example of the sweater, in which you need to increase the stitches for sleeves and to give a particular shape. Similarly, if knitting a shawl triangular, or curved shapes. Whether you are looking to offer a decorative effect using a visible increase or through an invisible way to change the shape of the stitches, there are various methods to explore. Single-pointed knitting needles are commonly used for back-and-forth in rows and it's good for flat knitting projects.

How do you increase the knit stitches invisibly?

It is essential to pay close attention to the tension and technique while increasing the knit stitches.

Let’s check some of them:

1. KFB (knit front and back)

It is one of the most common and popular methods among knitters. In this technique, you increase into the front stitch, then, you knit into the back of the same stitch. In this way, you will create a two-stitch from one.

2. M1R/M1L (Make one right/left)

These are called right and left-leaning increases. It will create a new stitch by lifting the bar between the stitches and then knitting into it. You will be surprised to see that there are no holes or bumps.

3. KLL/KRL (Knit Left Loop/Right Loop)

It is similar to the M1R/M1L technique, but in this method, you need to knit at the back of the loop stitch from the previous row. It is used when you want an invisible increase on the right side of the fabric. If you have small projects like socks and hats, you can easily use double-pointed needles as it allows you to knit from both sides and gives you more control over motions.

How do you increase the knit stitches visibly?

Applying visible increases can benefit patterns, and designs such as raglan sweaters or lacework.

Some of them are:

1. Yarn over (YO)

This YO increase will create a hole in the fabric called an eyelet, which appears in the next row. In this technique, bring the yarn in front of the needle, and then knit the next stitch. You will see a gap between the stitches. The patterns are mostly suitable for lace or shawls.

2. Backward loop cast-on or e-loop

In this method, create a loop on the right-hand needle and then place it on the left-hand needle. Afterward, insert the right-hand needle into the loop from front to back and knit the loop. You can see a small bump on the fabric.

3. LLI/RLI (Left Lifted Increase/Right Lifted Increase)

This is also known as ‘raised increase’. It is mostly used to make decorative patterns. A new stitch is formed by knitting into the stitch below the next stitch on the left-hand needle and then knitting the next stitch. LLI creates the left-leaning bar while the RLI forms the right-leaning.

For RLI increase, knit into the front stitch of the next stitch. Insert the left-hand needle from the back to the front of the horizontal strands of yarn between the stitches just worked on and the next stitch on the left-hand needle. Knit the stitch through the back loop.

Circular needles are the best option for making a larger circular project because they can easily hold many loops.

Mastering the increased stitches for different projects can help you to make different patterns and unique designs. After learning multiple increase methods, you can incorporate them into various knitting projects. But you need to practice it regularly and make sure you know where you need to apply this fantastic technique.

Do you want to make a circular pattern in crochet? Learn to crochet a circle. But what is the best way, is still a secret. It is a fundamental skill that helps to create many creative projects, but making a perfect one is challenging for beginners. You can design various patterns with crochet hooks, like coasters, mandalas, and amigurumi. It is easy to grasp the technique that you can use to crochet a flat circle. This guide will explore how to crochet a circle, the stitches, the method, and tips to ensure your circles look in shape.

Keep in mind in the crochet world, the UK and USA use the same stitch names such as double and treble crochet but they indicate the different stitches. UK double crochet (DC pattern) is single crochet (SC) in the USA. However, most patterns clearly instruct the stitches they use in the project.

What materials are required?

Before you start making the circle, let’s gather the tools required. You can choose medium worsted-weight yarn which is strong, durable, and beginner-friendly. Along with the yarn you need a single-ended crochet hook, which is gentle on the hand.

How to Crochet a Circle

Do you know there are multiple methods to create it? But one of the most common methods is starting a ‘magic ring’ or ‘chain ring’. For simplicity let’s begin with a magic ring that helps to avoid holes in the center of the circle.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Create a Circle

• Start with a slip knot, then make two chain stitches. Make a six DC into the second chain from the hook and slip stitch to join the round.

Step 2: 2nd round

• Next, to make the shape of your circle evenly, you'll need to increase the number of stitches in each round. In round two, double the number of stitches by working two DC stitches into each stitch from round one.
• Insert your wooden crochet hook or Tunisian one into the first stitch from round one.
• Then, crochet two DC into that stitch, called increase.
• Next, repeat this process for each stitch around. Remember, you should have twelve stitches at the end of round two.

Step 3: Increase the circumference of the circle

• Continue to increase in the second round as well. Make sure your circle remains flat and doesn’t curl, but for that, you’ll need to follow a simple method for increasing stitches in each subsequent round.
• Increase in every second stitch. Repeat this pattern all the way around. Now you can see eighteen stitches on your hook.
• Increase in every third stitch. Repeat, and you will get twenty-four stitches at the end of this round.
• As you crocheting more rounds, you will see your circle growing steadily. To maintain this shape, ensure you keep track of the number of stitches in each round.

Great! You created your first circle. Keep practicing it.

Common issues and solutions

Here are some problems with solutions:

• Suppose your circle starts to curl, maybe you’re not increasing enough stitches. Ensures you are following the correct pattern.
• If in case your circle starts to look wavy, you might be increasing too many stitches. So, check your pattern and count stitches. Make sure you’re not adding extra stitches by mistake.
• If you see a gap in the center of your circle, it may be because you didn’t pull your magic ring tight enough. Try dragging the yarn tail again to close the gap.

Tips/advice to get the perfect shape of a circle

• If working in rounds use a stitch marker, it will help you to track where the round is beginning and ending.
• As a beginner, it is easy to lose the count of stitches. Hence, at the end of each round count the stitches.
• Once you master the basic stitches in making a circle, experiment with other stitches like half-treble (HTR) or treble crochet (TC) for different textures.
• If you want to make it visually appealing, try changing yarn colors at the start of the new round.

Do you want to experiment with the Tunisian Crochet Hook? They are longer than the standard ones and can hold many hoops. You can read our blog, on choosing Tunisian crochet hooks for beginners for more information.

Congratulations! On learning to crochet a circle. Mastering the technique will help you in creating various patterns. Remember, practice makes perfect. To enhance your knitting skill, experiment with different yarns, hook sizes, and stitches and see what is best for you.

In knitting, there’s always the scope for improving your skills. Even the basic knit stitch can be made in different ways with your knitting needles and be used to create different textures. One such amazing and fairly easy-to-make stitch technique is the knit through the back loop (KTBL). A simple twist in the traditional knit stitch makes a big impact with twisted texture. In this blog, let’s explore everything you need to know KTBL, how you make it and where you need it.

What do you know about the KTBL twisted pattern?

Knit though the back loop (KTBL) is a variation of the standard knit stitch. Instead of inserting the knitting needle into the front of the stitch, you insert it into the back loop. This twist tightens the stitch and creates a slightly different texture, making it stand out in your knitting. You might notice KTBL in ribbing patterns, twisted stitch designs, and decorative techniques.

So, whether you’ve single pointed needle or circulars for a project knit back and forth, or you’re knitting in round with DPNs or magic loop with circular needles, this technique is perfect for adding a unique twist to your projects. It works for all project whether it’s a cozy hat, socks, or a sweater.

KTBL? Is it really required?

You might wonder, why you would use KTBL when regular knitting is available. Here are a few reasons:

1. For aunique texture. It creates a twisted stitch that stands out when compared to regular knit stitches. You can easily add interesting patterns to plain projects to make them unique. A simple garter scarf knit with circular knitting needles or a pair of single pointed needles gets an interesting texture.

2. When you need tight stitches that prevent the fabric from becoming too loose and stretchy. Say for example you are knitting socks on double pointed needles and are overwhelmed with multiple needle tips, this stitch technique will have your stitches secure and tight.

3. Intricate or complex stitch patterns. Knitting through the back loop creates twisted cables or ribbing giving the fabric a neat, defined look.

Learn the step-by-step procedure to create KTBL stitches

Step 1: Start casting at least 15-20 stitches on the needle. Then, knitting a few rows of regular knit stitches to get into the flow. 

Step 2: When you knit a regular stitch, you insert your needle through the front loop of the stitch, right? But in KTBL, you’re going to insert through the back loop.

Step 3: Now, while holding knitting needles take your right-hand needle, and insert it from right to left into the back loop of the stitch on your left.

Step 4: Wrap your yarn around the right needle as you would for a regular knit stitch. That’s all there is to it.

Step 5: Pull the yarn through the back loop to create a new stitch on your right needle. This stitch looks slightly tighter and more twisted than your regular knit stitch. Great! you learn the hard part.

Step 6: Slip the old stitch off the left needle, leaving the newly twisted stitch on your right. And that’s it! You've mastered your first KTBL stitch.

Let’s check the difference between the Regular and KTBL

Remember, in the regular knit stitch, you insert the needle in the front loop, giving the fabric a smooth and consistent texture. KTBL, on the other hand, is worked through the back loop, which twists the stitch and makes it look slightly tighter and more structured. Keep in mind that every regular knit stitch forms a 'v' shape, while KTBL looks like an 'X'.

Tips/advice for a successful KTBL technique

• If you're having trouble spotting the back loop, try loosening your yarn tension a bit. It makes a big difference.
• If you accidentally twist a stitch, unravel that stitch, and try again. Practice it continuously.
• Sometimes your stitches become too tight if you pull the yarn too hard. So, keep a relaxed grip on your yarn and needles.

Now you know about knitting through the back loop (KTBL), and you’re confident enough to handle more complex patterns and projects. KTBL is a fun way to add texture and flair to your knitting skills.

Do you love knitting in round, especially socks? Socks are the favorite and most popular project among knitters because it’s easy to make, small, and portable. Whether you are creating this for yourself or crafting it for your loved ones, something you find unique and satisfying about handmade socks. You might be unsure about the type of knitting needles to use, such as whether to use double-pointed (DPNs) or circular needles. In this blog, let's discuss which needle is perfect for making your favorite project.

Why knit socks with double-pointed needles?

Most knitters struggle to pick the right needle for the socks. Do you know, that DPNs are the oldest knitting tool for creating round projects? These short needles have points on both ends and come in sets of four or five. They are designed to knit in the round, perfect for smaller circular items like socks. Managing the five needles is sometimes tricky for beginners, however, most of the time, you knit with two needles only, so don't worry about it.

Double-pointed needles are available in materials, such as wood, bamboo, plastic, metal, stainless steel, and carbon, and can be chosen according to the preference and convenience of knitters. These are available in a range of sizes from 5’ to 8’, while 5'or 6'inches ones are good for knitting socks, and 8'-inch is for hats, sweaters, and larger projects.

Why choose circular knitting needles?

These needles are made for smaller circumference projects, and have a flexible cable connecting two needle tips for seamless knitting. Do you know they’re often used for knitting larger projects in the round? When it comes to socks, knitters mostly use two circular needles (CN) or one long circular needle to work in the round using the fantastic magic Loop technique.

You do have an option of choosing from fixed circular or interchangeable circular knitting needles. Both are perfect for knitting socks, as long as you have the size and length. We recommend either choosing a long circular needle with an 80cm (32") cable or a small CN with a 40cm (16") cable. You will be glad to know that these are generally more portable and compact than DPN, making them the best for making most of the projects.

Now, let’s discuss both DPN and CN.

Both needles are perfect to work with. However, when you think of knitting socks, the choice between these two depends on personal preference. However, most knitters prefer circular needles for knitting heavier garments because they are much easier on the hands and wrists. You can eliminate the risk of dropping or losing needles while in transit. In CN, work on two needles connected to a cable cord, and your work doesn’t slide off. Working with circular needles requires mastering methods like Magic Loop, which can be tricky for beginners but rewarding once mastered.

Double-pointed knitting needles are loved due to the comfort of knitting small circumferences. When knitting at home and having space to manage multiple needles, DPNs can offer a satisfying, rhythmic knitting experience.

Keep in mind a few points when choosing double-pointed or circular knitting needles:

• When knitting in the round, you are mostly concerned with the circumferences rather than length. For example, if the sock's inches are 25-35, you need at least 50 + stitches according to the yarn weight, so choose the DPN if the length permits. But CN especially ICN (interchangeable needles) have the benefit of changing the cords according to the stitches.
• Check the pattern instructions before deciding on the knitting needles, as the designer has already tried them and can give you the best instructions. Moreover, it is easy to switch needles and keep stitch markers handy.
• Ultimately it all depends on the comfort level of the knitters.

Why not try both needles?

Sometimes, a knitting project requires you to use both needles because of the circumferences of the project. Don’t be afraid to try it out. Ultimately, remember there is no right or wrong answer when choosing between DPNs and circular needles for sock knitting. It all depends on what you feel is best for you and your knitting style. If you love the classical style, go for DPN, or if you like the versatility and compactness of circular needles, CN is for you.

Don’t wait! Grab your yarn, knitting needles, and a good sock pattern.

Do you want to add multiple yarn colors to your creative crochet project? Then explore the beautiful Tapestry crochet! One of the most interesting crochet techniques for creating beautiful designs. Unlike regular crochet, tapestry allows you to work with complex motifs, which makes it ideal for tasks like blankets or purses. In this technique, you must work on multiple colors at a time across a row to create a pattern using your favorite crochet hooks. It might be tricky for beginners but don’t worry about it. As you practice, you will quickly finish it. In this blog, we will understand the concept of tapestry crochet, how to create it, and tips to make your design attractive.

Tapestry Crochet: a colorful technique?

It is a technique where you work with more than two yarn colors within the same rows or round. One of the best parts about this method is that you carry the unused yarn behind your work as you crochet and you won’t get confused in colors. It is slightly similar to Fair Isle in knitting; the only difference is that it doesn’t leave strands of yarn behind the back of your work. Furthermore, it creates a dense fabric, which means the pattern looks similar on both sides. It may seem a little complex for beginners, but you will enjoy doing it with a little practice.

Tools for tapestry crochet

It is important to choose the tools that work best for you. Wooden crochet hooks are good for beginners as they are good while working with slippery yarns. A finishing needle, a scissor, and stitch markers are required when you work on tapestry crochet.

Tapestry crochet: a challenging technique?

Yes, for beginners. Follow the steps mentioned below, make a beautiful pattern, and overcome any challenge.

The following are the steps:

Step 1: Create a foundation chain with your main yarn color. We recommend beginners work on small projects like coasters and get the hang of these stitches. Isn’t it easy?

Step 2: Complete a few rows using a single-ended crochet hook (stitches easily and fast) with your main color, it's time to use the second color. For this, finish the last stitch of your current row by pulling the new color through the final loop. Great, you will have a smooth transition!

Step 3: When starting crocheting with a new color, carry the unused yarn by placing it across the stitches from the previous row and crocheting over it. Don’t worry it's not confusing.

Step 4: Before changing the color, complete the final yarn over the last stitch in the current color with the new yarn color. Great, you did a clean color switch!

Step 5: Don’t worry about when to change color because the tapestry crochet uses a chart or pattern, which will indicate when to change color. Start with a simple design and then move to a complex pattern.

Step 6: Continue working with a few rows and change the color according to the design. Ensure the yarn tension is consistent throughout the project.

Step 7: Once you complete your project, weave in any loose ends using a tapestry needle. Cut any excess yarn for smooth work.

Some suggestions for beginners

• Start with simple projects so that you feel comfortable working with different yarn colors.
• Maintain even tension to keep your fabric smooth and avoid gaps while changing colors.
• You can follow the patterns mentioned in the tapestry crochet chart. Start with a simple pattern and then move to a detailed design.
• Keep your yarn free from tangling. You can use a yarn box, which will hold your working yarn.

 Some projects that suit tapestry crochet

Let’s check out a few patterns and designs that are easy for beginners:

• A simple square coaster is a good way to start the tapestry crochet project. Add multiple colors for practice.
• Create a multicolor tote bag with repeating color practice.
• An expert crocheter can work on a blanket using Tunisian crochet Hooks, which are ideal for dense fabric.

The crochet technique is always fun and creative when you add tapestry, it will make your project beautiful. It may seem challenging at the start, but with regular practice, you will be able to create a beautiful project. So, start with your project using crochet hook sets that include multiple hooks to try out.

Summary: Do you want to work on a multicolor tapestry crochet project? But no idea how to work on it. Don’t worry; we have explained in detail the methods and tips for making a fantastic project.