DIY Network

Slip-Stitch Knitting It's possible to create intricate-looking designs with this simple knit-and-slip technique. From "Knitty Gritty" episode DKNG-313

Slip-stitch knitting looks much more difficult than it actually is. Using this technique, you work with only one color per row; you form the design by simply knitting or slipping stitches.

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Melissa Leapman recommends writing down or photocopying your pattern before you begin; that way, you won't have to memorize the stitch sequence (and your knitting will be much more fun!).

Believe it or not, these beautiful stitch patterns (figure A and figure B) are created using just one color at a time! By alternately knitting and slipping stitches according to a simple chart, interlocked patterns magically appear.

Hint: High-contrast color choices work best. Avoid novelty yarns so that you can see the work of the stitch instead of the eyelash of a novelty yarn.

Figure A

Figure B

Materials:

JCA/Reynolds Saucy Sport (sport weight; 100% cotton; each approx. 1-3/4 oz/50 g and 123 yd/113 m): Black #899 (A) and Berry #686 (B)
needles (one pair each U.S. sizes 6 and 7 [4 and 4.5 mm], or size needed to obtain gauge)

Note: Remember that many yarns are seasonal and could be discontinued. If the specific yarn called for is not available, purchase a substitution yarn that comes closest to the specified gauge in your pattern. And be sure to make that all-important swatch to see whether the yarn works for your particular pattern.

Slip-Stitch Pattern

Slip stitch with yarn in front

With lighter color, cast on a multiple of 4 + 3 sts.
Row 1 (RS): With darker color, K1, *slip next st with yarn in back, K3. Repeat from * across, ending row with slip next st with yarn in back, K1.

Row 2: With darker color, K1, *slip next st with yarn in front, K3. Repeat from * across, ending row with slip next st with yarn in front, K1.

Row 3: With lighter color, *K3, slip next st with yarn in back. Repeat from * across, ending row with K3.

Row 4: With lighter color, *K3, slip next st with yarn in front. Repeat from * across, ending row with K3.

Repeat Rows 1-4 for patt.

Knit Bit: Before you get an iron anywhere near your finished garment, make sure you use it on your test swatch first. Take it, block it: safe for your swatch, safe for your sweater!

Next: Möbius Knitting: Cowl and Bag

RESOURCES :

Premiere yarn
Classic Elite Yarns
Website: www.classiceliteyarns.com

Reynolds Saucy Sport yarn
Website: www.jcacrafts.com

Karisma yarn
Aurora Yarns
Website: www.garnstudio.com

Hot Knits: 30 Cool, Fun Designs to Knit and Wear
By Melissa Leapman
ISBN: 0-8230-2338-9
$19.95
Watson-Guptill Publications
Website: www.watsonguptill.com

GUESTS :

Melissa Leapman
Author and needlework expert
E-mail: melissa.leapman@gmail.com