Saturday, March 23, 2013

Beginner Knitting: tips for creating the Garter Stitch

Beginner Knitting:

• how to knit the Garter Stitch, English style

The most basic of all knit stitches, the Garter Stitch is often referred to as the "knit stitch" because it uses the knit stitch to create this fabric called Garter Stitch.


The Garter Stitch is a wonderful knit fabric because the front and back are identical, making this a useful stitch for scarfs, afghans, hats, leg warmers, neck warmers, etc.

In the example seen below, a triangle shape is forming by increasing one stitch at the beginning of each row.


This particular increase is called a Yarn Over.  

It is created by bringing your working yarn over the working needle (right hand needle) before you begin the stitch.

As you can see, it leaves a lovely yet simple border of loops.


To create the Garter Stitch, start by casting on any number of stitches.  Then, use the knit stitch for every row.  

In the example seen above, I am using Clover circular needles to carry the weight of the fabric. 

This will eventually become a shawl and will be very heavy to work with.  Using circular needles, to create flat fabric, is my preference when creating large items.

The yarn I am using is from Jo-Ann Stores.  Sensations yarn is a Jo-Ann brand of yarn.  This particular yarn is Caribbean in the color metallic orange. 

You can find more info about this yarn at: http://www.joann.com/sensations-caribbean-yarn/zprd_11388865a/

The video below demonstrates a up-close view
of how to create the knit stitch.  

This video goes into great detail,
offering tips on how to create the knit stitch.