Knitting is a beloved craft that has been passed down through generations. It allows you to create beautiful and cozy items, such as scarves, hats, and sweaters. One technique that every knitter should learn is how to knit front and back, also known as KFB. This technique creates an increase in stitches and is commonly used to add shaping to a garment or create decorative patterns.
Learning how to knit front and back may seem daunting at first, but with our easy step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to master this technique in no time. All you need is some yarn, knitting needles, and a little bit of patience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter looking to expand your skills, this article will guide you through the process.
Step 1: Start by knitting the first stitch as you normally would. Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, wrap the yarn around the right needle, and pull it through to the front to create a new stitch. Leave the original stitch on the left needle.
Step 2: Now, without dropping the new stitch from the right needle, insert the right needle into the back of the original stitch from left to right. Wrap the yarn around the right needle and pull it through to create another new stitch.
Step 3: Finally, drop both the original stitch and the new stitch from the left needle. You have successfully completed a knit front and back stitch.
With just a few simple steps, you can create a variety of knit front and back stitches to add texture and interest to your knitting projects. Experiment with different yarns and needle sizes to achieve the desired effect. Knitting front and back opens up a whole world of possibilities for your knitting projects, so give it a try and see what you can create!
Basic Supplies Needed for Knitting
Before you can start knitting, you will need a few basic supplies. Here are the essential tools and materials needed for knitting:
- Knitting Needles: You will need a pair of knitting needles to create your stitches. Knitting needles come in different sizes and materials, such as metal or bamboo. The size of the needles will depend on the thickness of the yarn you are using.
- Yarn: Yarn is the main material used in knitting. It comes in a variety of colors, thicknesses, and compositions. Choose a yarn that is suitable for your knitting project.
- Scissors: Scissors are essential for cutting yarn. Make sure to have a pair of sharp scissors specifically designated for your knitting supplies.
- Tape Measure: A tape measure is handy for measuring the length and width of your knitting project. It will help you keep track of your progress and ensure that your finished piece meets the desired measurements.
- Tapestry Needle: A tapestry needle, also known as a yarn needle or darning needle, is used for sewing in loose ends and seaming pieces together. It has a large eye and a blunt end, making it easy to work with yarn.
- Stitch Markers: Stitch markers are used to mark specific points in your knitting. They come in various shapes and can be placed on the knitting needles or directly onto the stitches to help you keep track of your pattern or specific knitting instructions.
- Row Counter: A row counter is a small tool used to keep track of the number of rows you have knitted. It can be a handheld device, a digital counter, or a simple tally counter. This tool is especially useful for complex knitting patterns.
- Knitting Bag or Basket: Having a knitting bag or basket will keep all your knitting supplies organized and easily accessible. It is a convenient way to store your needles, yarn, and other knitting accessories.
With these basic supplies on hand, you will be well-equipped to start your knitting journey. Remember to choose high-quality materials that suit your knitting project and personal preferences. Happy knitting!
Understanding the Knit Stitch
The knit stitch is one of the most basic and fundamental stitches in knitting. It creates a smooth and even fabric that is commonly used in many knitting projects. Here are some key points to understand about the knit stitch:
- Definition: The knit stitch is formed by inserting the needle into the front of the stitch on the left-hand needle, wrapping the yarn around the right-hand needle, and pulling the new loop through the stitch.
- Right-side: The knit stitch is typically worked on the right side of the fabric, which is the side that will be seen when the project is finished.
- Knit vs. purl: The knit stitch is often paired with the purl stitch to create different textures and patterns in knitted fabric. The knit stitch creates a smooth and raised stitch, while the purl stitch creates a bumpy and lower stitch.
- Stockinette stitch: When you consistently work knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side, it creates a fabric called stockinette stitch. This is one of the most common and versatile stitch patterns in knitting.
- Increasing and decreasing: The knit stitch can be used to increase or decrease the number of stitches in a project. Common techniques include knitting into the front and back of the same stitch to create an increase, or knitting two stitches together to create a decrease.
- Tension: Achieving consistent tension is important in knitting to ensure that the stitches are even and the finished fabric looks neat. Practice knitting with a relaxed grip and experiment with different knitting styles to find what works best for you.
Once you understand the basic knit stitch, you can begin exploring more advanced techniques and stitch patterns to create a wide range of knitting projects. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Knitting the Front and Back
Knitting the front and back is an essential technique in knitting that is often used to increase the number of stitches in a row. It creates a small bump or “bar” on the knit fabric and allows for interesting texture and shaping possibilities. Follow these step-by-step instructions to learn how to knit the front and back.
- Start by knitting the first stitch on your needle as you normally would. Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from left to right.
- Instead of sliding the stitch off the left needle, bring the working yarn to the front of the work, between the needles.
- Using the right needle, insert the tip from right to left into the back of the same stitch. The needle should be angled upward and go through the center of the stitch.
- Wrap the working yarn around the right needle, just as you would in a regular knit stitch.
- Pull the right needle and the yarn back through the stitch, creating a new loop on the right needle.
- Finally, slide the original stitch off the left needle, leaving the new loop on the right needle.
- Repeat these steps for each stitch you want to increase. Knitting the front and back of a stitch creates two new stitches from one.
You can use the “knit front and back” technique to create interesting patterns, increase the size of a garment, or shape a project. Experiment with different stitch combinations and patterns to add depth and dimension to your knitting.
Tips:
- Make sure to keep your tension even as you knit the front and back to maintain a consistent fabric.
- If you’re using a pattern, it will usually specify where and how many times to knit the front and back.
- Take your time and practice the technique on a swatch or scrap piece of fabric before incorporating it into your project.
Conclusion:
Now that you know how to knit the front and back, you can incorporate this technique into your knitting projects to add texture, increase stitches, and create unique patterns. With practice, you’ll be able to master this technique and use it confidently in your knitting endeavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning how to knit front and back can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of some common mistakes that beginners often make. By being mindful of these mistakes, you can avoid unnecessary frustration and ensure that your knitting projects turn out beautifully.
1. Twisting Stitches: One of the most common mistakes beginners make when knitting front and back is accidentally twisting their stitches. This can happen when you insert the right-hand needle incorrectly, resulting in twisted stitches that can impact the overall look and fit of your project. To avoid this, make sure to insert your needle correctly through the front loop of the stitch.
2. Uneven Tension: Another common mistake is having uneven tension throughout your knitting. This can result in stitches that are too tight or too loose, leading to an uneven fabric. Practice maintaining a consistent tension by keeping your hands relaxed and using the same amount of force when knitting each stitch.
3. Forgetting to Slip the Stitch: When knitting front and back, it’s important to remember to slip the stitch as indicated in the pattern. This step is crucial for creating the increased stitch and failing to do so can result in a misshapen fabric. Pay attention to the pattern instructions and make sure to slip the stitch as directed.
4. Not Counting Stitches: Counting your stitches is essential for keeping track of your progress and ensuring that you have the correct number of stitches at the end of each row. It’s easy to lose track, especially when knitting front and back, so make it a habit to count your stitches regularly to avoid any mistakes.
5. Skipping Gauge Swatching: Gauge swatching may seem like an extra step, but it’s crucial for achieving the correct size and fit of your knitting project. Skipping this step can result in a garment that is too small or too big. Take the time to swatch and measure your gauge before starting your project to ensure that your finished piece matches the intended measurements.
6. Lack of Patience: Learning any new skill takes time and patience. It’s important to remember that knitting front and back may not come naturally at first, but with practice, you’ll improve. Avoid getting frustrated and give yourself time to learn and make mistakes along the way. Remember, knitting is a journey, and each project is an opportunity to improve your skills.
By being mindful of these common mistakes and taking the time to practice and learn from them, you’ll become a more skilled knitter and enjoy the process of knitting front and back even more. Happy knitting!
Tips for Achieving a Neat and Professional Finish
When knitting, it’s important to pay attention to even the smallest details in order to achieve a neat and professional finish. Here are some tips to help you improve your knitting skills:
- Use the right yarn: Choose a high-quality yarn that is suitable for the project you are working on. Different yarns have different textures and thicknesses, so it’s important to select one that matches your desired outcome.
- Practice tension control: Maintaining consistent tension throughout your knitting is crucial for achieving an even and professional finish. Be mindful of how tightly or loosely you hold the yarn, and adjust accordingly to ensure that your stitches are uniform in size.
- Pay attention to gauge: Before starting a project, take the time to make a gauge swatch. This will help you determine if you are knitting to the correct size and prevent any surprises once your project is complete.
- Check stitch counts regularly: Counting your stitches regularly can help catch any mistakes early on. This is especially important when working on projects with shaping or intricate stitch patterns.
- Use stitch markers: To help keep track of important sections or decreases, use stitch markers to mark your place in the pattern. This can be particularly useful when knitting in the round or working on large projects with multiple sections.
- Block your finished project: Blocking is the process of shaping and setting your knitted piece to its final dimensions. This can help even out any uneven stitches and give your project a polished and professional look. Follow the blocking instructions specific to your yarn and project type.
- Take your time with finishing: The finishing touches can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your project. Take the time to neatly weave in any loose ends, seam your pieces together with care, and ensure that any buttons or embellishments are securely attached.
By following these tips and practicing your knitting skills, you can achieve a neat and professional finish on all of your knitting projects.
Advanced Techniques for Knitting Front and Back
Once you’ve mastered the basic technique of knitting front and back (kfb), you can explore advanced variations and applications. These techniques allow you to create interesting textures and shaping in your knitting projects.
1. Double Increase with kfb
By combining multiple kfb increases in a single stitch, you can create a double increase. This is a useful technique when shaping patterns or adding decorative elements to your knitting.
- Insert the right needle into the front loop of the stitch.
- Knit through the front loop, but do not drop the stitch from the left needle.
- Bring the right needle to the back of the work.
- Insert the right needle into the back loop of the same stitch.
- Knit through the back loop.
- Drop the stitch from the left needle.
2. Double Increase with kfb and k1
Another way to create a double increase is to combine a kfb increase with a knit stitch (k1). This technique creates a more pronounced increase and is often used in lace knitting patterns.
- Knit through the front loop of the stitch, but do not drop the stitch from the left needle.
- Bring the right needle to the back of the work.
- Insert the right needle into the back loop of the same stitch.
- Knit through the back loop.
- Drop the stitch from the left needle.
- Knit the next stitch.
3. Triple Increase with kfb and ssk
If you want to create even more shaping or intricate patterns, you can combine a kfb increase with a slip slip knit (ssk) decrease. This triple increase technique is commonly used in advanced lace knitting patterns.
- Knit through the front loop of the stitch, but do not drop the stitch from the left needle.
- Bring the right needle to the back of the work.
- Insert the right needle into the back loop of the same stitch.
- Knit through the back loop.
- Drop the stitch from the left needle.
- Slip the next two stitches from the left needle to the right needle knitwise.
- Insert the left needle into the fronts of these two slipped stitches.
- Knit them together through the back loops.
- Drop the stitches from the right needle.
4. Incorporating kfb in Patterns
When following knitting patterns, you may come across instructions to incorporate kfb increases in specific ways. This could include increases at the beginning or end of rows, within specific stitch patterns, or for shaping sleeves and necklines.
Make sure to carefully read and understand the pattern instructions before attempting these advanced techniques. Practice on a small swatch to ensure you understand how the pattern incorporates kfb increases.
With these advanced techniques for knitting front and back, you can elevate your knitting projects to the next level. Experiment with different combinations and applications to create unique designs and achieve the desired shaping.
Additional Resources for Learning Knitting Techniques
Knitting is a versatile and enjoyable craft that allows you to create beautiful, handmade items. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, there’s always more to learn. Here are some additional resources to help you expand your knitting skills:
1. Online Knitting Tutorials
There are numerous websites and YouTube channels that offer free knitting tutorials. Some notable online resources include:
- KnittingHelp.com – This website provides detailed video tutorials for various knitting techniques, from basic stitches to advanced lace patterns.
- VeryPink Knits – Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, the host of this YouTube channel, offers clear and concise video tutorials for knitting techniques.
- Ravelry – This online knitting community has a vast library of patterns and a helpful forum where you can ask questions and learn from other knitters.
2. Knitting Books
Knitting books are a valuable resource for learning new techniques and finding inspiration for your projects. Some popular knitting books include:
- The Knitter’s Handy Book of Patterns by Ann Budd – This book provides a variety of knitting patterns and guides for creating custom designs.
- Knitting Without Tears by Elizabeth Zimmermann – Elizabeth Zimmermann shares her expertise and offers tips and tricks for knitting with ease and confidence.
- Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book – This comprehensive resource covers all aspects of knitting, from basics to advanced techniques.
3. Local Knitting Classes and Workshops
If you prefer hands-on learning, consider taking knitting classes or workshops in your local community. Many yarn shops and craft stores offer knitting classes for all skill levels. Not only will you learn new techniques, but you’ll also get to meet other knitters and share your passion for the craft.
4. Knitting Podcasts
Podcasts are a great way to stay inspired and learn from experienced knitters. Some popular knitting podcasts include:
- Knitmore Girls – This podcast features mother-daughter duo Jasmin and Gigi, who discuss various knitting topics and share their knitting projects.
- VeryPink Knits – In addition to her video tutorials, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee also hosts a podcast where she answers knitting questions and provides tips and advice.
5. Knitting Retreats and Festivals
Attending knitting retreats and festivals can be a fun and immersive way to enhance your knitting skills. These events often offer workshops taught by renowned knitting instructors and provide opportunities to connect with fellow knitters.
Remember, knitting is a journey, and there’s always something new to learn. Whether you choose to explore online tutorials, delve into knitting books, or participate in hands-on classes, these additional resources will help you expand your knitting knowledge and master new techniques.
FAQ:
Why would I want to knit front and back?
Knitting front and back is a common technique used to increase the number of stitches in your knitting. It can come in handy when you’re shaping a project, such as adding shaping to a sleeve or creating a decorative pattern. By knitting front and back, you can easily add extra stitches without compromising the look or structure of your work.
Does knitting front and back create a different type of stitch?
No, knitting front and back doesn’t create a different type of stitch. It’s simply a method of increasing the number of stitches in your knitting. The new stitch you create when knitting front and back is the same as any other stitch in your project, and it can be worked in the same way as any other stitch.
Can I use the knitting front and back technique with any type of yarn?
Yes, you can use the knitting front and back technique with any type of yarn. The technique itself doesn’t depend on the yarn you use. However, keep in mind that different yarns have different properties, so the end result may vary depending on the yarn you choose. It’s always a good idea to swatch and test the technique with your chosen yarn before incorporating it into your project.