Mastering the Art of Knitting: Demystifying the Edge Stitch

When it comes to knitting, there are a plethora of techniques and terms that can seem overwhelming to beginners. One such term that may leave you scratching your head is the edge stitch. What exactly is an edge stitch in knitting? Is it just another fancy term or does it serve a specific purpose? In this article, we will delve into the world of knitting and unravel the mysteries of the ever-important edge stitch. Whether you are a novice or an experienced knitter, understanding this basic yet crucial technique will take your projects to the next level. So grab your needles and let’s dive in!

Knitting is a popular and versatile craft that involves using yarn and needles to create fabric. There are many different techniques and stitches used in knitting, each with their own purpose and effect. One such stitch is the edge stitch, which plays an important role in the overall appearance and structure of a knitted piece.

What is a Edge Stitch in Knitting?

The edge stitch, also known as the selvedge or selvage stitch, is a technique used to create a neat and professional-looking border along the edges of a knitted piece. It is typically used at the beginning and end of rows, but can also be incorporated into the middle of a row to create specific designs.

Why is it Important?

While some may see the edge stitch as just a small detail in knitting, it actually serves several important purposes. Firstly, it helps to prevent the edges of your knitting from unraveling or becoming frayed. This is especially important for garments or accessories that will be washed or worn frequently.

In addition, the edge stitch also has an aesthetic function. It creates a smooth and clean edge on your knitting, giving it a more polished and professional look. This is particularly useful if you plan on blocking your finished piece as it will help to maintain its shape.

How to Do an Edge Stitch

There are several ways to do an edge stitch in knitting, depending on your preference and the desired effect. Here are two common methods:

Purlwise Edge Stitch:
1. Insert your needle into the first stitch purlwise (from right to left) instead of knitwise (from left to right).
2. Purl this stitch as normal.
3. Continue working the rest of the stitches in your row as instructed in your pattern.
4. When you reach the last stitch, insert your needle into the stitch purlwise, wrap the yarn around and purl as normal.

Knitwise Edge Stitch:
1. Insert your needle into the first stitch knitwise (from left to right) instead of purlwise (from right to left).
2. Knit this stitch as normal.
3. Continue working the rest of the stitches in your row as instructed in your pattern.
4. When you reach the last stitch, insert your needle into the stitch knitwise, wrap the yarn around and knit as normal.

Types of Edge Stitches

Aside from the basic purlwise and knitwise edge stitches, there are also various other types of edge stitches that can be used in knitting. These include:

Garter Stitch Edge: This is achieved by knitting every row of a piece instead of alternating between knit and purl rows. This creates a ridged edge, which is commonly used for scarves or blankets.

Ribbed Edge: This involves alternating between knit and purl stitches at the beginning and end of a row to create a textured edge. It is commonly used for sweaters or hats.

I-Cord Edge: An i-cord is a narrow knitted tube that can be attached to the edges of a piece to give it a more structured and polished look.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Edge Stitches

While learning how to do an edge stitch may seem straightforward, there are some common issues that can arise. These include:

Tight Edge: If your edge stitch is too tight, it can cause your knitting to buckle or curl at the edges. To fix this issue, you can try using larger needles for your edge stitches or knitting them looser than usual.

Loose Edge: A loose edge can cause your knitting to appear uneven and floppy. To avoid this, make sure to tighten your tension or use smaller needles for your edge stitches.

Splitting Yarn: The nature of the edge stitch makes it more prone to yarn splitting. To prevent this, be mindful of how tightly you insert your needle and try using a smooth or less delicate yarn.

Incorporating Edge Stitches into Patterns

Edge stitches can be used as a design element in knitting patterns, adding texture and interest to the finished piece. They can also be used to create borders or edgings for decorative purposes. When designing with edge stitches, make sure to consider how they will affect the overall structure and appearance of the garment.

The edge stitch may seem like a small detail in knitting, but it serves an important purpose in creating a polished and professional-looking finished piece. With various techniques and types available, it is a versatile tool that can add both functional and aesthetic benefits to your knitting projects. So next time you pick up your needles, don’t forget the importance of the humble edge stitch!

Understanding Edge Stitch in Knitting

Edge stitch is a commonly used term in knitting that refers to the first and last stitch of a knitted row. It is also known as the selvedge stitch or the edge of the knitting fabric. This stitch is created by slipping the first and last stitch of each row on the needle instead of knitting or purling them like the rest of the stitches. This creates a clean and sturdy edge on either side of the knitted fabric.

The Importance of Edge Stitch in Knitting

Edge stitch serves multiple purposes in knitting. Firstly, it provides a neat and finished look to your knitted project. The slipped stitches create a defined edge that prevents your knitted fabric from curling or unraveling at the edges. It also gives structure and stability to your work, allowing you to easily pick up stitches for further knitting.

Moreover, edge stitch acts as a guide for beginners when starting and ending each row. As you slip these stitches, it becomes easier to identify where one row ends and another begins, especially if your pattern involves color changes or intricate stitching techniques.

Techniques for Creating Edge Stitch

There are several ways to create an edge stitch in knitting, depending on your preference and project requirements.

The most commonly used method is slipping the first and last stitch of every row knitwise with yarn held at back (SSK) or purlwise with yarn held in front (SKP). This creates a slanted edge that is ideal for projects such as scarves, shawls, or blankets.

Another technique is called chain-edge selvedge which involves creating a chain-like loop at each side of your piece by pulling on an extra length of yarn before starting every row. This technique is useful for projects with ribbed edges such as sweaters or socks.

Cable-edge selvedge is a method where you work an extra stitch at the beginning of each row by slipping the first stitch purlwise, knitting or purling the following stitch, and then passing the slipped stitch over the knitted or purled stitch.

There are also variations of these techniques using different combinations of knit and purl stitches to achieve various effects.

Applications of Edge Stitch

Edge stitch is an essential element in various knitting projects. It is commonly used in garments such as sweaters, cardigans, and socks to create clean edges and prevent them from rolling up. Edge stitch also plays a crucial role in lace knitting as it ensures that the complex lace patterns remain neat and defined.

Moreover, this stitch can also be used in projects such as dishcloths, washcloths, or bathmats to create a border that is durable and easy to pick up stitches from for future knitting.

Tips for Beginner Knitters

If you are new to knitting, edge stitch might seem challenging at first. However, with practice and the right techniques, you will be able to master it in no time. Here are some tips that can help you create perfect edge stitches:

– Always slip your first and last stitches knitwise unless otherwise specified in your pattern.
– Ensure that your tension is consistent throughout your project to avoid loose or tight edge stitches.
– Use markers at each end of your row to help you keep track of your edge stitches.
– Practice different techniques on smaller swatches before trying them on larger projects.
– When switching between knit and purl rows, remember to slip the first stitch with yarn held according to the next row’s requirements.

Edge stitch is a valuable technique that every knitter should know. It not only adds a professional finish to your project but also provides structural support and ease when following intricate patterns. With the right techniques and practice, you can create perfect edge stitching in your projects. So, the next time you pick up those needles, don’t forget the importance of edge stitch in your knitting journey.

Q: What is a edge stitch in knitting?
A: An edge stitch in knitting is the first and last stitch of your row or round. It is used to create a clean and stable edge on your knitted fabric.

Q: Why is an edge stitch important in knitting?
A: Edge stitches help to prevent the edges of your knitted piece from curling, which can be especially useful for projects like scarves and blankets. They also make it easier to pick up stitches for seaming later on.

Q: How do I work an edge stitch in knitting?
A: To work an edge stitch, simply slip the first stitch of every row knitwise (as if you were going to knit it) and knit the last stitch of every row. This will create a consistent and neat border on both edges of your knitted fabric.

Q: Can I use any type of stitch for an edge stitch?
A: While you can use any type of knit or purl stitch for an edge stitch, it is recommended to use a knit stitch as it creates a tighter and more stable edge compared to a purl stitch.

Q: How many edge stitches should I use in my knitting project?
A: The number of edge stitches you use will depend on the pattern you are following. Some patterns will specify the number of stitches needed for the edges, while others may not require any at all. If no number is specified, it is generally recommended to use one or two edge stitches on each side.

Q: What if I forget to work my edge stitches?
A: Forgetting to work your edge stitches may result in uneven edges or curling at the edges. However, if you realize your mistake after several rows, you can go back and add them by picking up the loop from each skipped stitches and placing it on a knitting needle.

In conclusion, an edge stitch in knitting is a crucial technique that provides structure, stability and a neat finish to knitted projects. It involves working stitches at the edge of a knit fabric to prevent unraveling and create a defined, polished border. Edge stitches can be used in various ways, such as creating a clean edge for garments, adding decorative details, or even joining multiple pieces together.

There are several types of edge stitches that knitters can utilize depending on their project’s needs and desired aesthetic. Some popular examples include the slipped stitch edge which creates a tidy-looking selvage, the garter selvedge which adds elasticity and strength to edges, and the i-cord bind off which creates a decorative tubular border. Understanding and mastering these techniques can significantly elevate one’s knitting skills and add professional touches to their creations.

Additionally, practicing proper tension while working edge stitches is crucial to achieving desirable results. Too tight of tension can cause the stitch to pull inwards and create an uneven edge while too loose can result in gaps and inconsistency. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to tension throughout the entire knitting process.

In summary, an edge stitch may seem like a small detail in knitting, but it plays a significant role in the overall look and functionality of a project.

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.