Knitting in the round is a technique that opens up a world of possibilities for knitters. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter looking to expand your skills, learning how to knit in the round allows you to create seamless and beautifully finished projects. In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about knitting in the round, from the basic techniques to advanced tips and tricks. So grab your needles and let’s dive into the wonderful world of circular knitting!
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right needles and yarn to joining in the round and troubleshooting common issues. We’ll also explore different methods for knitting in the round, such as using circular needles, double-pointed needles, or the magic loop technique. Whether you’re interested in knitting hats, socks, or even sweaters, mastering this technique is essential for any knitter.
Understanding Circular Needles and Double-Pointed Needles
When it comes to knitting in the round, you have two main options for needles: circular needles and double-pointed needles. Each type of needle has its advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for your project depends on various factors.
Circular Needles
Circular needles consist of two needle tips connected by a flexible cable. They are ideal for projects with a large number of stitches, such as sweaters or blankets. The length of the circular needle depends on the circumference of your project, and you can choose between fixed or interchangeable circular needles.
Fixed circular needles have a fixed cable length, whereas interchangeable circular needles allow you to switch out the needle tips and cables, giving you more flexibility in terms of project size. Circular needles are also great for projects with a mix of knit and purl stitches or stitch patterns, as the cable holds the bulk of your project, reducing strain on your wrists.
Double-Pointed Needles
Double-pointed needles (DPNs) are shorter needles with points at both ends. They come in sets of four or five and are commonly used for smaller, cylindrical projects like socks, mittens, or sleeves. DPNs are particularly useful when working on projects with small circumferences that are too tight for circular needles.
DPNs allow you to distribute your stitches evenly across multiple needles, working on a few needles while the others hold the rest of your stitches. This method prevents ladders or gaps from forming between needles. While DPNs require some dexterity and practice, they offer excellent control and precision when working on small, intricate projects.
Selecting the Perfect Yarn for Circular Knitting
Choosing the right yarn is crucial for a successful circular knitting project. The type of yarn you select can greatly influence the drape, stitch definition, and overall appearance of your finished project. Here are some factors to consider when selecting yarn for knitting in the round:
Fiber Content
The fiber content of your yarn affects its warmth, durability, and texture. Common yarn fibers include wool, acrylic, cotton, silk, and blends. Wool is a popular choice for circular knitting due to its elasticity and warmth. Acrylic yarns are affordable and low maintenance, making them great for everyday wear. Cotton and silk yarns offer breathability and a silky sheen, ideal for lightweight garments.
Consider the properties of different fibers and choose one that suits the project’s purpose and desired characteristics. For example, if you’re knitting a cozy winter hat, a wool or wool-blend yarn would be a good choice for its insulation properties.
Yarn Weight
Yarn weight refers to the thickness or thinness of the yarn. It is categorized using a standard system ranging from lace weight (super fine) to super bulky. The weight of the yarn determines the size of the stitches and the overall look of your project.
For circular knitting, it’s important to choose a yarn weight that complements your needle size and project. If you’re using circular needles for a lightweight summer top, a fingering or sport weight yarn would work well. On the other hand, if you’re knitting a cozy winter sweater, a bulky or super bulky yarn would create a warm and chunky fabric.
Gauge
Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch in your knitting. It is essential to check your gauge before starting a circular knitting project to ensure that your finished piece will have the correct dimensions.
Most yarn labels provide a recommended gauge for a specific needle size. To check your gauge, knit a swatch using the chosen yarn and needles, and measure it against the recommended gauge. Adjust your needle size if necessary to achieve the correct gauge.
Calculating Yarn Requirements
Before starting your circular knitting project, it’s important to determine how much yarn you’ll need. Yarn requirements depend on factors such as the project size, stitch pattern, and yarn weight.
To calculate the approximate yardage needed, consult the pattern instructions or use a yarn calculator. If you’re designing your project or adapting an existing pattern, consider the stitch pattern’s yarn consumption and add a buffer for swatching or potential modifications.
Casting On and Joining in the Round
Starting a circular knitting project requires a specific casting-on method to create a seamless join. The join should be secure and invisible, ensuring that your project starts off on the right foot. Here are some techniques for casting on and joining in the round:
Long-Tail Cast On
The long-tail cast on is a versatile and commonly used method for circular knitting. To begin, leave a long tail (approximately three times the width of your knitting) before making a slipknot. Hold the slipknot in your right hand, and with the working yarn in your left hand, create a slingshot-like shape with your fingers.
Insert the needle under the yarn loop on your thumb, then over and behind the yarn loop on your index finger. Insert the needle into the slipknot, catching the yarn loop on your thumb. Drop the thumb loop and tighten the stitch. Repeat this process until you have the desired number of stitches.
Joining in the Round
Once you have cast on your stitches, it’s time to join in the round. This step is crucial to ensure that your stitches form a continuous loop, without any twists. To join in the round, place a stitch marker on the right-hand needle to mark the beginning of the round.
Hold the needle with the cast-on stitches in your left hand, and the empty needle in your right hand. Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, knitting it as you normally would. This creates a seamless join, connecting the last stitch with the first stitch.
Knitting in the Round with Circular Needles
Circular needles are a versatile tool for knitting in the round. Whether you’re knitting hats, socks, or even sweaters, mastering the basic techniques of knitting on circular needles is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental techniques you’ll need to know:
Knitting and Purling
Knitting and purling are the foundation of most knitting projects. To knit on circular needles, hold the needle with the stitches in your left hand, and the empty needle in your right hand. Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, from left to right. Wrap the working yarn around the right-hand needle counterclockwise, and pull it through the stitch, slipping the old stitch off the left-hand needle.
To purl on circular needles, hold the needle with the stitches in your left hand, and the empty needle in your right hand. Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, but this time from right to left. Wrap the working yarn around the right-hand needle counterclockwise, and pull it through the stitch, slipping the old stitch off the left-hand needle.
Increasing and Decreasing
Increasing and decreasing stitches are techniques used to shape your knitting. There are various methods for increasing and decreasing on circular needles, including yarn overs, knit front and back (kfb), knit two together (k2tog), and slip, slip, knit (ssk).
A yarn over (YO) creates a new stitch and a decorative hole. To perform a yarn over, bring the working yarn to the front between the needle tips, then over the right-hand needle to the back again. This creates a loop on the right-hand needle, which counts as a stitch.
Knit front and back (kfb) is a common method for increasing stitches. To kfb, knit into the front of the stitch as usual, but instead of slipping it off the left-hand needle, leave it there. Without moving the stitch from the left-hand needle, insert the right-hand needle into the back of the same stitch and knit it again. Now, slip the stitch off the left-hand needle, creating two new stitches.
Knit two together (k2tog) is a common method for decreasing stitches. To k2tog, insert the right-hand needle into the next two stitches on the left-hand needle as if to knit them together. Wrap the working yarn around the right-hand needle counterclockwise, and pullit through both stitches, slipping them off the left-hand needle. This creates a single decreased stitch.
Slip, slip, knit (ssk) is another common method for decreasing stitches. To ssk, slip the next two stitches individually from the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle, as if to knit them. Insert the left-hand needle into the fronts of both slipped stitches and knit them together through the back loop. This creates a single decreased stitch.
Working Stitch Patterns
When working on circular needles, you can easily incorporate various stitch patterns into your project. Whether you want to create ribbing, cables, lace, or colorwork, the same principles apply.
For stitch patterns with a repeating pattern, such as ribbing, you will need to adjust the stitch count to accommodate the pattern. For example, if you are knitting a 2×2 rib, you will alternate between knitting two stitches and purling two stitches. Make sure to maintain the pattern consistently throughout your project.
For more complex stitch patterns, such as cables or lace, follow the pattern instructions carefully. Some patterns may require you to use a cable needle or to create yarn overs and decreases in specific ways. Take your time and refer to the pattern’s key or tutorial videos if needed.
Knitting in the Round with Double-Pointed Needles
If you prefer using double-pointed needles (DPNs) for your circular knitting projects, there are a few techniques and tips to keep in mind. DPNs allow you to distribute your stitches across multiple needles, preventing ladders or gaps from forming between needles. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Distributing Stitches
When working with DPNs, you will divide your stitches evenly across three or four needles, depending on the set you’re using. Start by casting on the required number of stitches onto one needle. Then, distribute the stitches equally onto the other needles.
For example, if you have 36 stitches and are using four DPNs, you can distribute nine stitches onto each needle. The remaining needle will be your working needle. It’s helpful to use stitch markers to mark the beginning of each needle or section.
Avoiding Ladders
Ladders are gaps that can form between the needles when working with DPNs. To prevent ladders, there are a few techniques you can employ:
– When starting a new needle, give a gentle tug on the first stitch to close any potential gap between the needles.- Ensure that your tension is consistent as you transition from one needle to the next. Avoid pulling the first stitch on each needle too tightly, as this can create ladders.- If you notice ladders forming, you can use a technique called “jogless jog” to minimize their visibility. This involves slightly adjusting your stitch pattern at the beginning of each new needle to create a smoother transition.
Working in the Round
When working with DPNs, you will typically have one needle as your working needle, while the others hold the rest of your stitches. As you knit or purl across the stitches on the working needle, the other needles will rotate around, allowing you to access the next set of stitches.
It’s important to pay attention to the orientation of your stitches to avoid twisting them. Make sure that the stitches on each needle are facing the same direction and that the working yarn is coming from the correct side.
Exploring the Magic Loop Technique
The magic loop technique is an alternative method for knitting small circumferences using a long circular needle. This technique is especially useful when you don’t have the appropriate size DPNs or prefer not to work with them. Here’s how to master the magic loop technique:
Preparing the Magic Loop
To begin the magic loop technique, you will need a circular needle with a cable length of at least 32 inches or longer. Start by casting on the required number of stitches onto the needle. Then, slide the stitches to the middle of the cable, ensuring an equal number of stitches on each side.
Next, identify the midpoint of your stitches and gently bend the cable at that point, creating a loop with half of the stitches on each side. Make sure the working yarn is attached to the first stitch on the right-hand needle (the one closer to the tip).
Working the Magic Loop
Hold the needle with the stitches in your left hand and the empty needle in your right hand. Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, making sure to go under the cable loop.
Wrap the working yarn around the right-hand needle counterclockwise and pull it through the stitch, just as you would when knitting in the round with circular needles. Slip the old stitch off the left-hand needle and continue working across the stitches on the left-hand needle.
Once you have completed the stitches on the left-hand needle, rotate your work so that the empty needle becomes the left-hand needle, and the needle with the stitches becomes the right-hand needle. Slide the stitches along the cable, always keeping half of the stitches on each side.
Repeat the process, knitting or purling across the stitches on the new left-hand needle. Continue this rotation and knitting process until you have completed your project.
Shaping and Decreasing in the Round
Creating shaping and decreasing techniques can be a bit challenging when working in the round. However, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can shape your projects beautifully. Here are some methods for shaping your circular knitting projects:
Decreases
Decreasing stitches is essential for shaping your knitting, whether you’re working on a hat crown, shaping the waist of a sweater, or creating a tapered toe for socks. There are several common decrease techniques you can use:
– Knit Two Together (k2tog): Insert the right-hand needle into the next two stitches on the left-hand needle as if to knit them together. Wrap the working yarn counterclockwise and pull it through both stitches, slipping them off the left-hand needle. This creates a single decreased stitch.- Slip, Slip, Knit (ssk): Slip the next two stitches individually from the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle as if to knit them. Insert the left-hand needle into the fronts of both slipped stitches and knit them together through the back loop. This creates a single decreased stitch.- Central Double Decrease: Insert the right-hand needle into the next two stitches on the left-hand needle as if to knit them together, but do not slip them off the left-hand needle. Instead, insert the right-hand needle into the third stitch on the left-hand needle and knit it as well. Then, slip all three stitches off the left-hand needle. This creates a single centered decrease.
When working decreases in the round, it’s important to maintain the stitch pattern and keep track of your stitch count. Make adjustments as needed to ensure that your decreases create the desired shaping without distorting the overall design.
Increases
Increasing stitches is another way to shape your knitting, and there are several common increase techniques you can use:
– Yarn Over (YO): To create a yarn over, bring the working yarn to the front between the needle tips, then over the right-hand needle to the back again. This creates a loop on the right-hand needle, which counts as a stitch.- Knit Front and Back (kfb): Knit into the front of the stitch as usual, but instead of slipping it off the left-hand needle, leave it there. Without moving the stitch from the left-hand needle, insert the right-hand needle into the back of the same stitch and knit it again. Now, slip the stitch off the left-hand needle, creating two new stitches.- Make One (M1): There are different methods for making one stitch, such as the M1L and M1R. These techniques involve picking up the horizontal bar between stitches and knitting into it from either the front or back to create a new stitch.
When increasing in the round, make sure to distribute the new stitches evenly throughout your project. This will help maintain a balanced shape and prevent any unwanted distortions.
Short Rows
Short rows are a technique used to create deliberate asymmetrical shaping in your knitting. They are often used to shape the heel of socks, create drape in shawls, or add subtle curves to garments. While short rows are typically worked back and forth, they can also be adapted for circular knitting.
The most common method for working short rows in the round is the wrap and turn technique. To wrap and turn (W&T), work to the specified stitch, then bring the working yarn to the front. Slip the next stitch from the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle. Move the working yarn to the back, and return the slipped stitch to the left-hand needle.
Turn your work and continue knitting or purling in the opposite direction, following the pattern instructions for the specific short row shaping. When you encounter the wrapped stitch, treat it as a regular stitch, knitting or purling it together with its wrap to create a smooth transition.
Finishing Techniques for Circular Knitting Projects
Finishing your circular knitting project is just as important as the knitting process itself. Here are some essential finishing techniques to complete your project:
Binding Off
When your project is complete, it’s time to bind off to secure your stitches. The bind-off method you choose will depend on the desired finish and elasticity required for your project. Here are a few common bind-off techniques for circular knitting:
– Basic Bind Off: Knit the first two stitches on the left-hand needle. Insert the left-hand needle into the first stitch on the right-hand needle and lift it over the second stitch and off the needle. Knit the next stitch on the left-hand needle and repeat the process until one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail, and pull it through the last stitch to secure.
– Stretchy Bind Off: If you need a more elastic edge, you can use a stretchy bind off method. The suspended bind off or Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off are popular choices. These methods involve creating additional yarn overs or using a larger needle size to create a looser bind off.
Weaving in Ends
After binding off, you’ll have a few loose ends of yarn to weave in for a neat finish. Thread the end of your yarn onto a yarn needle, then weave it in and out of the back of your stitches, following the path of the yarn. Take care to avoid distorting the fabric or creating visible loops on the right side of your project. Trim any excess yarn once the end is securely woven in.
Blocking
Blocking is an essential step to shape and finish your knitted project. It involves wetting or steaming your knitting to relax the fibers and even out the stitches. To block your circular knitting project, follow these steps:
– Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a wool wash or gentle detergent suitable for your yarn.- Submerge your knitted project in the water, gently squeezing it to ensure it is fully soaked. Avoid agitating or wringing the fabric.- Let the project soak for 10-15 minutes, allowing the fibers to absorb the water.- Remove the project from the water and gently squeeze out excess moisture. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric.- Lay a clean towel on a flat surface and place your project on top.- Gently shape the project to its desired dimensions, smoothing out any wrinkles or unevenness.- Pin the edges of your project to the towel using rust-proof T-pins or blocking wires, if necessary.- Leave your project to dry completely, usually overnight or until it is no longer damp to the touch.- Once dry, remove the pins or wires and admire your beautifully blocked project.
Adding Decorative Elements
To add a personal touch to your circular knitting project, you can incorporate decorative elements such as buttons, beads, or embroidery. Sew on buttons as closures or embellishments, attach beads to create intricate designs, or use embroidery stitches to add unique patterns or motifs. These details can elevate your project and make it truly one-of-a-kind.
Troubleshooting Common Circular Knitting Issues
Even the most experienced knitters encounter challenges while working in the round. Here are some common issues you may face and solutions to overcome them:
Twisted Stitches
Twisted stitches occur when you accidentally twist the stitch as you knit or purl it. This can happen when joining in the round or when working in pattern. To prevent twisted stitches, ensure that all your stitches are oriented in the same direction on the needle before starting a new round. If you notice a twisted stitch, you may need to carefully unravel it and rework it correctly.
Gaps
Gaps can appear between needles when working with DPNs or at the join when using circular needles. To prevent gaps, make sure to snugly tug the first stitch of each needle or round. This helps close any potential gaps and ensures a smooth transition between stitches.
Uneven Tension
Uneven tension can result in stitches that are noticeably tighter or looser than the rest of your work. To achieve consistent tension, practice maintaining a relaxed grip on your needles and yarn. Pay attention to how you wrap the yarn around the needle, ensuring it is neither too loose nor too tight. Consistent practice and mindful knitting can help improve your tension over time.
Fixing Mistakes
Knitting in the round can make it trickier to fix mistakes, especially if they are several rounds below your current position. One technique to fix mistakes is to use a crochet hook to carefully unravel the affected stitches down to the mistake and then re-knit them correctly. Alternatively, you can use a “lifeline” when working complex patterns or intricate designs. A lifeline is a piece of contrasting color yarn threaded through a row of stitches, acting as a safety net if you need to rip back and start again.
In conclusion, learning how to knit in the round opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced knitter, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on circular knitting projects with confidence. By understanding the different types of needles, selecting the perfect yarn, mastering casting on and joining, and familiarizing yourself with the techniques and troubleshooting tips, you can create beautiful, seamless garments and accessories with the art of knitting in the round. So gather your supplies, choose your favorite technique, and get ready to explore the endless possibilities of circular knitting!