Have you ever been knitting a beautiful project and then suddenly realize you’ve dropped a stitch? Or perhaps you’ve started a new project and need to pick up stitches from an existing edge? Whatever the reason, picking up stitches is a skill that every knitter needs to know. It’s not as difficult as it may seem, and with a little practice, you’ll be able to pick up stitches like a pro. In this article, we’ll show you how to pick up stitches from both a dropped stitch and an existing edge.
Before you start, you’ll need a few supplies. You’ll need a tapestry needle, some yarn, and a crochet hook if you’re picking up stitches from an existing edge. If you’re picking up a dropped stitch, you can use the same yarn that you’re using for your project. However, if you’re picking up stitches from an existing edge, you’ll need to use the same yarn that was used to create the edge. Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to get started.
If you’ve dropped a stitch, the first thing you need to do is find the stitch that you dropped. Once you’ve found the dropped stitch, you can use a tapestry needle to pick it up. To do this, insert the tapestry needle into the stitch below the dropped stitch. Then, pull the yarn through the stitch and onto the needle. Once you have the yarn on the needle, you can knit the stitch as usual. If you’re picking up stitches from an existing edge, the process is a little different. First, you’ll need to find the edge of the fabric that you want to pick up stitches from. Once you’ve found the edge, you can use a crochet hook to pick up the stitches. To do this, insert the crochet hook into the first stitch on the edge. Then, hook the yarn around the crochet hook and pull it through the stitch. Once you have the yarn on the crochet hook, you can knit the stitch as usual.
Identifying The Dropped Stitch
A dropped stitch occurs when a stitch falls off the knitting needle, creating a hole in the fabric. In most cases, it is advisable to fix a dropped stitch as soon as possible to prevent further unraveling. Find out how to identify dropped stitches based on two common knitting methods:
Knit Stitches
For knit stitches, a dropped stitch will appear as a vertical line on the right side of the fabric. The line may be slightly slanted and could have a loose loop of yarn hanging from the bottom. Additionally, the stitch above the dropped stitch will appear elongated and the stitch below it will be shortened.
Purl Stitches
In the case of purl stitches, a dropped stitch will look like a horizontal line on the wrong side of the fabric. Similar to knit stitches, the line may be slightly slanted and might have a loose loop of yarn attached to it. The stitch above the dropped stitch will appear as a series of horizontal bars, while the stitch below will be missing entirely.
| Stitch Type | Location | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Knit Stitch | Right side of fabric | Vertical line, loose loop of yarn, elongated stitch above, shortened stitch below |
| Purl Stitch | Wrong side of fabric | Horizontal line, loose loop of yarn, horizontal bars above, missing stitch below |
Picking Up Stitches Using a Crochet Hook
Using a crochet hook is a convenient method for picking up stitches, especially in situations where the original stitches are lost or dropped. This technique is particularly useful for salvaging projects or making alterations. Here’s a detailed guide on how to pick up stitches using a crochet hook:
- Find the Edge: Locate the edge where you need to pick up stitches. This is usually the edge of the knit or purl row where the stitches were lost or dropped.
- Insert the Hook: Insert the crochet hook into the edge of the fabric, between two existing stitches. Make sure the hook is positioned under the horizontal bar connecting the stitches.
- Yarn Over: Hold the yarn over the hook and pull it through the gap created by inserting the hook. You should now have a loop of yarn on your hook.
- Pull Through: Lift the loop of yarn onto the hook and pull it through the stitch on the needle. You now have a new stitch on your needle.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 2-4 until you have picked up the desired number of stitches.
Tips for Picking Up Stitches Using a Crochet Hook:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a small-sized crochet hook | For picking up fine yarn stitches |
| Tighten the stitches as you pick them up | To prevent gaps or holes in the fabric |
| Insert the hook perpendicular to the fabric | For a secure and uniform stitch pick-up |
Using a Knitting Needle to Pick Up Stitches
To pick up stitches using a knitting needle, start by inserting the tip of the needle into the first stitch on the edge of your work. Wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front, and pull it through the stitch. This creates a new stitch on the needle. Repeat this process for each stitch you want to pick up.
Picking Up Stitches Evenly
When picking up stitches evenly, it is important to make sure that the stitches are evenly spaced.
There are two common methods for picking up stitches evenly:
| Method 1 | Method 2 |
|---|---|
|
Insert the needle into every other stitch on the edge of your work. Wrap the yarn around the needle and pull it through the stitch. Repeat this process until you have picked up the desired number of stitches. |
Count the total number of stitches on the edge of your work. Divide the number of stitches by the number of stitches you want to pick up. Pick up every nth stitch on the edge of your work, where n is the number you calculated in step 2. |
The Kitchener Stitch for Invisible Mending
The Kitchener stitch is an advanced technique used for mending and weaving in new yarn without creating a visible seam. It’s perfect for repairing holes or tears in knitted fabrics while maintaining their original appearance. To perform the Kitchener stitch, follow these steps:
Step 1: Line Up the Edges
Match the edges of the hole or tear and hold them together with a tapestry needle threaded with yarn.
Step 2: Create Slip Stitches
Work one stitch from each side of the hole onto the left-hand knitting needle. Slip both stitches knitwise onto the right-hand needle.
Step 3: Work the Kitchener Stitch
Insert the left-hand needle into the second stitch on the right-hand needle, behind the front loop. Bring the yarn through and onto the left-hand needle and over the first stitch on the right-hand needle. Pull the yarn through to create a new loop.
Step 4: Repeat the Kitchener Stitch
Repeat Step 3 until all stitches from both sides have been joined.
Here’s a detailed sequence of the fourth step:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the left-hand needle into the second stitch on the right-hand needle, behind the front loop. |
| 2 | Bring the yarn through and onto the left-hand needle. |
| 3 | Pass the yarn over the first stitch on the right-hand needle. |
| 4 | Pull the yarn through to create a new loop. |
| 5 | Repeat Steps 1-4 until all stitches from both sides have been joined. |
Step 5: Trim and Weave in Ends
Cut the yarn and weave in the ends to secure the repair.
Pick Up Stitches from a Horizontal Edge
This method is perfect for repairing holes or tears in the fabric. Start by identifying the location where the stitches need to be picked up. Insert your knitting needle into the first stitch on the edge of the fabric and lift the loop onto the needle. Continue picking up stitches along the edge, inserting the needle into the next stitch and lifting the loop onto the needle.
The Double Knit Stitch for Seamless Repairs
The double knit stitch is an invisible stitch that creates a seamless repair. This stitch is used to join two pieces of fabric together or to repair a hole in the fabric.
- Step 1: Insert the Needle: Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle from back to front.
- Step 2: Wrap the Yarn: Wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle from back to front.
- Step 3: Pull Through: Pull the yarn through the stitch on the left-hand needle.
- Step 4: Knit the Stitch: Knit the stitch on the right-hand needle.
- Step 5: Ladder the Stitch: Lift the loop off the left-hand needle and place it on the right-hand needle. Knit this stitch again.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle from back to front. |
| 2 | Wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle from back to front. |
| 3 | Pull the yarn through the stitch on the left-hand needle. |
| 4 | Knit the stitch on the right-hand needle. |
| 5 | Lift the loop off the left-hand needle and place it on the right-hand needle. Knit this stitch again. |
Choosing the Correct Yarn for Stitches
When choosing yarn for stitch picking, consider the following factors:
Fiber Content
Natural fibers like wool and cotton are more forgiving for stitch picking, as they are slightly stretchy and can be manipulated without breaking. Synthetic fibers like acrylic, however, can be more challenging due to their stiffness and potential for tearing.
Weight
The weight of the yarn affects its thickness and strength. A heavier yarn will create thicker stitches that are easier to pick up, while a lighter yarn may be more difficult to work with.
Ply
Ply refers to the number of strands twisted together to create the yarn. A single-ply yarn is thinner and more delicate than a multi-ply yarn, which is stronger and more durable. For stitch picking, a multi-ply yarn is generally recommended for its increased stability.
Twist
The amount of twist in a yarn determines its elasticity and springiness. A yarn with a high twist will be more elastic and easier to stretch, making it ideal for stitch picking. A yarn with a low twist will be less elastic and more prone to snagging.
Color
While not directly related to the picking process, the color of the yarn can affect the visibility of the stitches. A light-colored yarn will be easier to see against the background fabric than a dark-colored yarn.
Yarn Comparison Table
| Characteristic | Recommendation for Stitch Picking |
|---|---|
| Fiber content | Natural fibers (wool, cotton) |
| Weight | Heavier weight |
| Ply | Multi-ply |
| Twist | High twist |
| Color | Light-colored |
Troubleshooting Common Issues in Picking Up Stitches
Unable to pick up stitches
If you cannot insert the needle into the stitch, try the following:
- Ensure you are using the correct needle size.
- Check that the stitches are knitwise or purlwise, as directed in the pattern.
- If picking up stitches along an edge, ensure you are lifting the correct loops.
Stitches are too loose
To tighten the stitches:
- Use a smaller needle size.
- Tension the yarn as you pick up the stitches.
- Pull the needle through the loop with less force.
Stitches are too tight
To loosen the stitches:
- Use a larger needle size.
- Release the tension on the yarn as you pick up the stitches.
- Pull the needle through the loop with more force.
Uneven stitch tension
Ensure that each stitch is:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Too loose | Increase tension or use a smaller needle size. |
| Too tight | Decrease tension or use a larger needle size. |
| Inconsistent | Adjust tension as you knit to even out the stitches. |
Dropped stitches
If you drop a stitch, do not panic. Here’s how to recover:
- Pick up the loop above the dropped stitch.
- Knit it onto the left-hand needle.
- Slide it back onto the right-hand needle.
- Continue knitting as usual.
Mistakes in stitch count
If you have the wrong number of stitches, recount carefully both before and after picking up the stitches.
Difficulty picking up stitches along a curved edge
For curved edges, use a smaller needle size and pick up the stitches more closely together.
Tips for Picking Up Stitches on Multiple Rows
There are a few things to keep in mind when picking up stitches on multiple rows. First, it is important to use the correct size needle. A needle that is too small will be difficult to insert into the stitches, and a needle that is too large will create loose stitches. Second, it is important to pick up the stitches evenly. If the stitches are picked up too tightly, they will be difficult to knit, and if they are picked up too loosely, they will create gaps in the fabric.
To pick up stitches on multiple rows, follow these steps:
1. Insert the needle into the first stitch on the row from which you want to pick up stitches.
2. Wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front.
3. Pull the yarn through the stitch to create a new loop on the needle.
4. Remove the old stitch from the needle.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 for each stitch on the row.
6. Once you have picked up all the stitches on the first row, insert the needle into the first stitch on the next row from which you want to pick up stitches.
7. Repeat steps 1-4 for each stitch on the row.
8. Continue picking up stitches on each row until you have reached the desired number of stitches.
If you need to pick up stitches on multiple rows that are not adjacent to each other, you can use a crochet hook to help you. Insert the crochet hook into the first stitch on the first row from which you want to pick up stitches. Wrap the yarn around the hook and pull it through the stitch to create a new loop on the hook. Remove the old stitch from the hook. Insert the hook into the first stitch on the next row from which you want to pick up stitches and repeat the process. Continue picking up stitches on each row until you have reached the desired number of stitches.
Creating a Smooth Transition in Picked-Up Stitches
Picking up stitches creates a seam where two pieces of knitting join. To make the transition seamless, follow these steps:
1. Use the Same Yarn and Tension
The yarn used for picking up stitches should match the weight and texture of the original knitting. Maintain even tension to ensure a consistent stitch size.
2. Insert the Needle at a Right Angle
When inserting the needle to pick up a stitch, hold it perpendicular to the edge. This creates a clean, vertical stitch.
3. Pick Up the Open Loop
The open loop is the space created between two stitches. Gently insert the needle into the loop and draw it through.
4. Check the Direction of the Stitch
Ensure the picked-up stitch is facing in the correct direction. It should follow the same orientation as the surrounding stitches.
5. Pick Up Enough Stitches
Determine the number of stitches needed by measuring or counting the edge stitches. Pick up enough stitches to create a secure join.
6. Distribute Stitches Evenly
Space the picked-up stitches evenly along the edge. This prevents gaps or bunching in the seam.
7. Knit or Purl the First Row
Once all stitches are picked up, knit or purl a row to secure the seam. This also helps to distribute the tension.
8. Run a Row of Yarn Back Through
Use a tapestry needle or a large-eye sewing needle to run a row of yarn back through the picked-up stitches. This helps to secure and reinforce the seam.
9. Finishing Touches
For additional smoothness, consider these finishing touches:
| Technique | Effect |
|---|---|
| Steam Blocking | Relaxes and softens the seam, creating a more fluid transition. |
| Felting | Shrinks the picked-up stitches slightly, making them blend better with the surrounding fabric. |
| Cross-Stitching | Embroidering a few stitches over the seam conceals any irregularities and creates a decorative accent. |
Care Tips for Knitted Garments with Picked-Up Stitches
To prolong the lifespan and maintain the beauty of knitted garments with picked-up stitches, consider the following care tips:
1. Gentle Hand Washing
Hand wash delicate garments in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as they can damage the fibers.
2. Air Drying
Lay the garment flat on a clean towel and reshape it if needed. Avoid hanging wet garments, as this can cause stretching and sagging.
3. Blocking
Blocking helps to set the stitches and give the garment its intended shape. Gently stretch and pin the garment on a blocking mat or towel.
4. Use of Laundry Bags
Use a mesh laundry bag when machine washing to prevent snagging and tearing.
5. Low Tumble Drying
If machine drying is necessary, use the lowest heat setting and remove the garment while it is still slightly damp.
6. Avoid Overstuffing
When storing garments, avoid overstuffing drawers or closets to prevent stretching.
7. Refrain from Ironing
Avoid ironing garments with picked-up stitches, as heat can damage the fibers and cause puckering.
8. Handle with Care
Be gentle when handling garments with picked-up stitches. Avoid pulling on the stitches or applying unnecessary force.
9. Mend Promptly
If you notice any loose or broken stitches, mend them promptly to prevent further damage.
10. Consult a Professional
If you have any questions or concerns about caring for your knitted garment with picked-up stitches, consult a professional cleaner or experienced knitter.
| Care Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Gentle Hand Washing | Wash garment in lukewarm water with mild detergent, avoiding harsh chemicals or bleach. |
| Air Drying | Lay garment flat to dry, reshaping as needed. Avoid hanging wet garments. |
| Blocking | Stretch and pin garment on blocking mat to set stitches and shape the garment. |
| Use of Laundry Bags | Protect garment from snagging and tearing by using a mesh laundry bag when machine washing. |
| Low Tumble Drying | Remove garment from dryer while slightly damp to avoid damage from excessive heat. |
| Avoid Overstuffing | Store garments loosely to prevent stretching. |
| Refrain from Ironing | Avoid ironing garments with picked-up stitches to prevent damage to fibers and puckering. |
| Handle with Care | Avoid pulling on stitches or applying unnecessary force to the garment. |
| Mend Promptly | Repair any loose or broken stitches immediately to prevent further damage. |
| Consult a Professional | Seek advice from a professional cleaner or experienced knitter for any questions or concerns about garment care. |
How to Pick Up Stitches in Knitting
Picking up stitches is a versatile technique in knitting that allows you to create new stitches from an existing edge, opening up endless possibilities for shaping and adding details to your projects. Whether you’re filling in a neckline, adding a decorative border, or knitting an i-cord from a cast-on edge, knowing how to pick up stitches is essential.
Gathering Your Materials
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Knitting needles in the appropriate size for your yarn
- Yarn
- Stitch marker (optional, for marking the first stitch)
Choosing a Method
There are two main methods for picking up stitches: the knitwise method and the purlwise method. The knitwise method creates stitches that slant to the left, while the purlwise method creates stitches that slant to the right. The most appropriate method depends on the desired effect and the direction in which you’re picking up stitches.
Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve chosen a method, follow these steps:
1. Insert your knitting needle into the edge of the fabric, below the next stitch you want to pick up.
2. Wrap the yarn around the needle from front to back (knitwise) or back to front (purlwise).
3. Pull the yarn through the loop on the needle.
4. Transfer the new stitch to your left-hand needle.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 for each stitch you need to pick up.
Tips
Here are a few tips to make picking up stitches easier:
- Use a sharp needle to avoid splitting the stitches.
- Pick up the stitches loosely to avoid creating a tight edge.
- If you need to pick up a large number of stitches, divide the edge into smaller sections and pick up the stitches in sections.
People Also Ask About How To Pick Up Stitches Knitting
What is the difference between knitwise and purlwise picking up?
Knitwise picking up creates stitches that slant to the left, while purlwise picking up creates stitches that slant to the right.
When should I use the knitwise method vs. the purlwise method?
Use the knitwise method when you’re picking up stitches from a knit edge and want the new stitches to blend seamlessly. Use the purlwise method when you’re picking up stitches from a purl edge or when you want the new stitches to stand out.
How do I pick up stitches from a cast-on edge?
To pick up stitches from a cast-on edge, insert your knitting needle into the cast-on loop and wrap the yarn around the needle as described in the step-by-step guide. Pull the yarn through the loop and transfer the new stitch to your left-hand needle.
