A yarn over is a simple increase that creates a lovely hole and is the basis for lace knitting. You may have made a yarn over my mistake, but in lace knitting we create holes with a purpose. Both yarn overs before a knit stitch and purl stitch are demonstrated in this video.
Author: Knit Purl
Bobbles
Bobbles add texture and charm to any knitted garment. There are many ways to execute a bobble and my favorite is demonstrated in this video. This simple bobble has its origin in Irish knitting and finds its way into many Aran sweaters.
Judy’s Magic Cast On
Using this cast on is the slickest way to begin a toe up sock. I like to follow this cast on with a wedge toe because it is simple to do and makes a comfortable home for your toes. Both the cast on and wedge toe are demonstrated in my newest video. Toe up socks are a great choice when your yarn yardage is a bit skimpy. Begin at the toe and knit up the leg until your skein is gone. If you have never made a toe up sock, hop on the bandwagon and see what you have been missing!
SSK
An ssk is a left leaning decrease that most closely mirrors the right leaning decrease, k2tog. The ssk is used in garment shaping, sock gussets and lace knitting. Watch the ssk video to learn this smooth decrease and kick your knitting up a notch!
Make One Increase
A make one increase (M1) is a nearly invisible increase creating a knit stitch. Many of today’s designers prefer the make one over the popular kfb (knit into front and back of stitch) which creates a knit stitch followed by a purl stitch. Discriminating knitters can use the Make One Left and Make One Right for beautiful leaning increases in gussets and yokes. Confused? Watch my newest video and try this easy to execute increase.
A make one is featured in my Super Simple Heel.
Long Tail Cast On
If you had to limit yourself to one cast on, this would be the one. The long tail cast on leaves a smooth edge with a firm, yet elastic tension. I always teach this cast on to beginner knitters since it is best to start off using the cast on with the most universal applications. If you haven’t tried it or need a refresher, take a peek at my video.
I-cord
An I-cord is a knitted tube that can be used for straps, edges and even the top of a hat. Follow along with this video that demonstrates how to make an I-cord with double points or the magic loop. I like to knit a baby hat as a newborn gift using my leftover sock yarn. I knit the entire hat from cast on to I-cord without double points by using the magic loop method. It’s quick and adorable!
Gusset (Magic Loop Method)
Pick up stitches for the gusset using the magic loop method. Many knitters get a little “turned around” after the turn heel. Stay tuned to the “Gusset” video and you will glide right on down your sock in record time!