Guide: How to knit edge stitches for beginners
With edge stitches, the edge of any flat knitted piece worked in rows looks much neater and more stylish. Edge stitches can be worked in various ways. Here, we’ll show you a very simple method that works every time—even with a wide variety of knitting patterns.
Difficulty: ♥♥♡♡♡
What means edge stitch?
If you simply knit the outer stitches of your knitting project (knitted in rows) as part of the pattern (no matter what the pattern is), the edge will usually turn out rather uneven and less attractive.
That’s why you work edge stitches, which ensure that the first and last stitches of each row turn toward the outer edge, creating a neat finish.
Note: The edge stitch does not prevent a piece knitted in stockinette stitch, for example, from curling. To prevent this, you need other types of edges, such as an I-cord edge or an edge knitted in garter stitch (see gauge page).
What means edge stitch?
If you simply knit the outer stitches of your knitting project (knitted in rows) as part of the pattern (no matter what the pattern is), the edge will usually turn out rather uneven and less attractive.
That’s why you work edge stitches, which ensure that the first and last stitches of each row turn toward the outer edge, creating a neat finish.
Note: The edge stitch does not prevent a piece knitted in stockinette stitch, for example, from curling. To prevent this, you need other types of edges, such as an I-cord edge or an edge knitted in garter stitch (see gauge page).
How to Knit Edge Stitches
Step by Step
Here's the simple way to work edge stitches
To create a neat edge, the first stitch of each row can be worked as an edge stitch.
- To do this, simply slip the first stitch of each row with the yarn in front of the needle by lifting it from the back with the right needle without knitting it.
- The last stitch of the row is ALWAYS knit.
This ensures a neat and even edge (V-edge as shown in the photos).
Here's the simple way to work edge stitches
To create a neat edge, the first stitch of each row can be worked as an edge stitch.
- To do this, simply slip the first stitch of each row with the yarn in front of the needle by lifting it from the back with the right needle without knitting it.
- The last stitch of the row is ALWAYS knit.
This ensures a neat and even edge (V-edge as shown in the photos).
