Knitting in the round is a popular technique used in many knitting projects, such as hats, socks, and seamless garments. However, there are times when you may need to join in the round after knitting flat, either because you forgot to join at the beginning or you want to add a decorative seam. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of joining in the round after knitting flat.
Step 1:
First, you will need to gather your supplies. You will need your knitting project, a set of double-pointed needles or circular needles in the same size as your project, and a stitch marker. It’s important that your needles match the size of your project to ensure an even tension.
Step 2:
Next, identify the point where you want to join in the round. This could be the beginning of a new round or a specific point along your project where you want to add a seam. Place a stitch marker to mark this point, making sure it’s easy to identify.
Step 3:
Now, take your double-pointed needles or circular needles and slide them into the first stitch of your project from the left needle. Make sure your working yarn is at the back of your work. Hold the needle with the marked stitch in your right hand and the other needle(s) in your left hand.
Step 4:
To create a seamless join, you will need to slip the first stitch of the round onto the right needle without knitting it. Simply insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle as if you were going to knit it, but instead, just slip it onto the right needle. This will close the gap and create a seamless loop.
Step 5:
Continue knitting in the round as normal, following the pattern instructions for your project. Make sure to move the stitch marker up as you continue knitting in the round, so you know where the beginning of the round is.
Step 6:
If you want to add a decorative seam, you can choose to knit the first few rounds in a contrasting color or use a different stitch pattern. This will create a visible line or pattern along the join, adding a unique touch to your project.
By following these steps, you can easily join in the round after knitting flat, whether you forgot to join at the beginning or want to add a decorative seam. With a little practice, you’ll be able to seamlessly transition from knitting flat to knitting in the round, opening up a whole new world of knitting possibilities.
Understanding the Difference
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide for joining in the round after knitting flat, it’s important to understand the difference between knitting flat and knitting in the round.
When knitting flat, you typically use straight needles and work back and forth in rows. You knit one row and then purl the next row, creating a fabric that has a right side and a wrong side.
On the other hand, when knitting in the round, you use circular needles or double-pointed needles. Instead of working back and forth in rows, you knit continuously in a spiral. This creates a seamless tube of fabric without a right or wrong side.
Knitting in the round is often used for projects like hats, socks, and sweaters. It eliminates the need to sew seams at the end and allows for continuous knitting without turning your work.
Joining in the round after knitting flat is a technique that allows you to seamlessly transition from knitting flat to knitting in the round. It’s particularly useful when you want to add a circular design element to a flat piece, like a border or a motif.
By understanding the fundamental differences between knitting flat and knitting in the round, you’ll be better equipped to follow the steps in this guide and successfully join in the round after knitting flat.
Benefits of Joining in the Round
Joining in the round is a technique commonly used in knitting and offers several benefits for knitters. By transitioning from knitting flat to knitting in the round, you can create seamless and continuous projects, such as hats, socks, and sleeves, without the need for sewing or seaming.
1. Seamless Construction:
Joining in the round eliminates the need for side seams in your knitted projects. This creates a seamless finish, which not only looks more professional but also provides increased comfort for the wearer. Seamless construction ensures that there are no bulky or uncomfortable seams to rub against the skin.
2. Time-Saving:
Knitting in the round can be a time-saving technique. By eliminating the need to knit separate pieces and sew them together, you can complete projects more efficiently. You can also save time by avoiding the added steps of seaming and finishing.
3. Better Pattern Visualization:
When knitting flat, you have to constantly switch between the right side and wrong side of the fabric. However, by joining in the round, you only have to focus on the right side of the work. This allows you to better visualize the pattern and make fewer mistakes.
4. Avoiding Purling:
Many knitters find purling to be a bit more challenging and slower compared to knitting. With circular knitting, you can avoid purling altogether by simply knitting all the stitches in every round. This can be especially beneficial for beginner knitters who are still getting comfortable with different techniques.
5. Stretchier Fabric:
When knitting in the round, you typically use circular needles, which can create a more even tension throughout your project. This results in a stretchier fabric compared to flat knitting. Whether you’re knitting a hat, socks, or a sweater, the stretchier fabric can improve the fit and wearability of the finished item.
Overall, joining in the round opens up new possibilities for knitters and provides a more efficient and seamless knitting experience. Once you grasp the technique, you’ll find yourself using it in many of your projects.
Gather the Necessary Materials
Before you begin joining your knitting in the round, you’ll need to gather a few materials:
- Knitting Needles: You’ll need a set of double-pointed knitting needles or a circular needle, depending on your project.
- Yarn: Choose a yarn that is appropriate for your project and the circular knitting technique you plan to use.
- Tapestry Needle: You’ll need a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends once you’ve joined your knitting in the round.
- Stitch Markers: Stitch markers are essential for marking the beginning of your round and any other important points in your pattern.
- Measuring Tape: A measuring tape will help you check your gauge and ensure your project turns out the right size.
- Pattern: Have your pattern ready so you can follow along and join your knitting correctly.
Make sure you have all these materials on hand before you begin joining your knitting in the round. Having everything ready will make the process much smoother and help you avoid any unnecessary interruptions.
Preparing Your Needles and Yarn
Before you can start knitting in the round, you’ll need to ensure that your needles and yarn are ready for the project. Here are some important steps to take:
- Select the Right Needles: Choose a set of circular needles that are appropriate for the size and type of yarn you are working with. The length of the needles should also accommodate the number of stitches you plan to cast on.
- Attach the Needles: If your circular needles have detachable tips, attach them securely to the cable. Make sure that they are tightened properly, so there is no risk of them coming loose during your knitting.
- Cast On Stitches: Use your preferred cast-on method to cast on the required number of stitches onto your circular needles. Make sure that the stitches are evenly distributed around the needles.
- Join the Round: Before joining the round, it’s crucial to ensure that your stitches are not twisted. Lay the circular needles flat on a table or surface, ensuring that the cast-on edge is facing the same direction on both needles. Carefully inspect the stitches and adjust if necessary to avoid any twists.
Once your needles and yarn are prepared, you’re ready to start knitting in the round. Following these steps will help ensure that your project gets off to a smooth start and you can enjoy the benefits of knitting in the round.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Finish knitting the flat portion of your project, leaving a long enough tail for seaming if necessary.
- Lay your knitting flat with the wrong side facing you.
- Fold the knitting in half lengthwise, aligning the cast-on edge with the needle holding the live stitches.
- Make sure that the right sides of the knitting are facing each other.
- Join a new ball of yarn if necessary, leaving a long enough tail for seaming if needed.
- Insert your needle into the first stitch on the front needle as if to purl.
- Insert your needle into the first stitch on the back needle as if to purl.
- Purl the first stitch from the front needle and the first stitch from the back needle together, treating them as one stitch.
- Continue purling the stitches together from each needle until all stitches are joined.
- Once all stitches are joined, you can continue knitting in the round as stated in your pattern.
Following these step-by-step instructions will allow you to seamlessly transition from knitting flat to knitting in the round, and you’ll be well on your way to completing your project!
Working With Circular Needles
Circular needles are a type of knitting needle that form a loop or circle. They consist of two pointed needles which are joined by a flexible cable.
There are several advantages to using circular needles:
- Versatility: Circular needles can be used for both flat knitting and knitting in the round. This makes them a versatile tool for various knitting projects.
- Ease of use: Circular needles eliminate the need to transfer stitches to double-pointed needles for knitting in the round. This can make your knitting process faster and more enjoyable.
- Comfort: The weight of your knitting projects is evenly distributed on the cable, which can reduce hand and wrist strain during long knitting sessions.
When working with circular needles, it is important to choose the right length of cable for your project. The length of the cable should be shorter than the circumference of the item you are knitting, but long enough to hold all your stitches comfortably. If the cable is too long, your stitches may stretch and become distorted.
To join in the round using circular needles, follow these steps:
- Cast on your desired number of stitches onto one of the circular needles.
- Arrange the stitches so that they are evenly distributed on the cable. Make sure the stitches are not twisted.
- Hold the needle with the cast-on stitches in your right hand. Insert the second needle into the first stitch as if to knit.
- Knit the first stitch using the working yarn that is attached to the ball of yarn.
- Continue working in the round, following your pattern instructions or desired stitch pattern.
If you are switching from knitting flat to knitting in the round, you will need to purl the first stitch instead of knitting it. Follow the same steps as above, but purl the first stitch instead of knitting.
Once you have joined in the round, you can begin working your project in a continuous spiral. Remember to mark the beginning of each round with a stitch marker, if necessary, to help you keep track of your progress.
Working with circular needles can open up a world of possibilities for your knitting projects. Whether you are knitting a hat, a sweater, or a pair of socks, circular needles can provide you with the flexibility and comfort you need to create beautiful and seamless designs.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure Your Stitches are Facing the Right Direction: When joining in the round, it’s important to ensure that all your stitches are facing the right direction. Make sure that the right side of your work is on the outside and the wrong side is on the inside.
- Check Your Stitch Count: Before joining in the round, count your stitches to make sure you have the correct number. If you have too many or too few stitches, it may indicate a mistake in your previous rows.
- Use Stitch Markers: Stitch markers can be a helpful tool to mark the beginning or end of a round. They can also be used to mark specific points in your pattern where you need to make increases or decreases. This can help you keep track of your progress and prevent mistakes.
- Check for Twisted Stitches: When joining in the round, it’s important to make sure none of your stitches are twisted. Twisted stitches can lead to uneven tension and a distorted finished project. Take the time to carefully check each stitch as you join in the round.
- Fixing Mistakes: If you notice a mistake in your work after joining in the round, don’t panic. You can still fix it by carefully unraveling the stitches back to the mistake and re-knitting them correctly. Use a crochet hook or spare needle to help pick up the stitches.
- Practice and Patience: Joining in the round can be a tricky technique to master, especially for beginners. It may take some practice and patience to get it right. Don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t work perfectly the first time. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to join in the round with ease.
Finishing and Next Steps
Now that you have successfully joined in the round after knitting flat, there are a few finishing steps you may need to complete before moving on to the next part of your project:
- Weaving in Ends: Take the time to weave in any loose ends from joining in the round and changing yarn colors. This will help ensure that your project looks neat and professional.
- Blocking: Depending on the type of project you are working on, you may want to consider blocking your work. Blocking is the process of shaping and smoothing your finished piece by wetting or steaming it. This can help even out any uneven stitches and give your project a polished look.
- Continuing the Pattern: After joining in the round, you will need to continue knitting according to the pattern instructions. Make sure to follow the pattern closely to ensure that your project turns out as intended.
- Counting Stitches: Double-check your stitch count to ensure that you haven’t accidentally added or dropped any stitches during the joining process. This will help ensure that your project maintains its proper shape and size.
- Taking Breaks: If your project is large or time-consuming, it’s important to take breaks and stretch your hands and wrists. This will help prevent strain and fatigue, allowing you to continue knitting comfortably.
By following these finishing steps and paying attention to the details, you can successfully join in the round after knitting flat and continue on with your project. Remember to take your time, enjoy the process, and have fun knitting!
FAQ:
Can I join in the round after knitting flat?
Yes, you can join in the round after knitting flat. It’s a useful technique for creating a continuous loop of knitting, such as for making hats or seamless garments.
What is the purpose of joining in the round?
The purpose of joining in the round is to create a seamless tube of knitting. This is often used in projects like hats, socks, or sleeves, where you want a continuous loop of stitches without a visible seam.
Is there a way to join in the round after knitting flat without a circular needle?
No, joining in the round after knitting flat typically requires the use of a circular needle. The circular needle allows you to create a seamless loop of stitches without the need for seaming.
What are common projects that require joining in the round after knitting flat?
Common projects that require joining in the round after knitting flat include hats, socks, sleeves, and seamless garments. Joining in the round allows for a continuous loop of stitches without a visible seam, which is desirable for these types of projects.