How to Make Designs When Knitting
- 1). Add ribbing to your knitting projects by alternating knit and purl stitches. Your pattern can be anything as simple as knit two, purl two, or you can add a more defined pattern to highlight the purled stitches, such as knit three, purl one. To keep this pattern going, do the opposite on the second side. For instance, if you pattern is knit three, purl one, on the opposite side you will purl three, knit one.
- 2). Create a moss or seed pattern by alternating knit and purl stitches at every other stitch. One row will consist of a pattern of knit one, purl one. However, on the next row, the stitches that were knitted on the first side will be purled on the second side. This creates a varied, almost bumpy look. This stitch pattern works well for borders, as it lies flat and will not curl as a conventionally knitted garment will.
- 3). Incorporate bobbles into your projects by knitting multiple stitches on top of one stitch. This is usually accomplished on a background of purl stitches, as it helps the bobble stand out more. Begin by knitting one stitch and, rather than slipping it off onto your second needle, wrap the loose end of the yarn around it once. This is called a yarn over, and it will create two stitches. Knit the stitch again, add a second yarn over and knit the first stitch for a third time. Slip the five stitches onto your second needle and flip the work to its opposite side. Purl all five stitches and flip the work back again. Knit the first two stitches together, then bring the resulting stitch back over to your first needle. Using your second needle, pull the remaining three stitches over the first stitch to cast them off. This should leave you with a puffy bobble.
- 4). Knit crossover cables by starting a pattern of purl one, knit six. After knitting six rows, purl one and slip the first three stitches in the series of six off onto a third needle. Knit the second set of three stitches and replace the first three stitches onto the first needle. Knit the following three to create the crossover cable.
