Thursday, January 12, 2012

Slipped Stitch Edges



A slipped stitch edge is also known as a slip stitch edge or chain edge.  Instead of "edge", you could also say "selvedge".

Why use a slipped stitch edge?  It makes an even, non-bumpy edge that can make items like scarves look a bit more tailored.  Another benefit is that it makes joining afghan blocks easier, as the edge stitches are well-defined.

How do you do a slipped stitch edge?  There are three main ways to do it.  The first two look the same, and the third is a bit different.  It's a matter of preference.

* Slip the first stitch purlwise & knit the last stitch
* Slip the first stitch knitwise & purl the last stitch
* Slip the first stitch purlwise & knit the last stitch through the back loop (ktbl)
[Alternatively, some people prefer to slip the last stitch of a row & knit/purl the first.  Again, a matter of preference.]

TECHknitting has good explanation of that last one, complete with diagrams (I love diagrams), and the video up top shows them all in action.

Happy slipping. :)

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