How to pick up stitches along the edges

If you’re a knitter, you’re probably familiar with the term “picking up .” This technique is commonly used to add borders, sleeves, or other details to your knitted projects. Picking up stitches along the edges can be a bit tricky, especially for beginners, but with a little practice, you’ll become a pro in no time. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of picking up stitches along the edges, step by step.

First, let’s understand why picking up stitches is necessary. When you finish a piece, you might need to add additional features, such as a collar or button band. Instead of knitting the feature separately and sewing it on, picking up stitches along the edges allows you to seamlessly continue your knitting. It creates a professional and polished look without any visible seams.

To get started, you’ll need your finished knitting piece, a knitting needle (preferably the same size as the one you used for the project), and a tapestry needle or crochet hook.

1. Assess the edge: Lay your knitting flat and examine the edge where you want to pick up stitches. Count the number of rows or stitches to determine the quantity needed, or consult your pattern for guidance.

2. Choose the corner: Begin at a corner and select the side where you want to pick up the stitches. Ensure that the side you choose is the right side of your project, as this will affect the direction of your stitches.

3. Insert the needle or hook: Starting from the corner, insert your knitting needle or crochet hook into the edge stitch on the right side of the fabric. Make sure to pick up the stitch’s whole loop. If you’re picking up a stitch from the wrong side, insert it from back to front.

4. Continue picking up stitches: Move along the edge, inserting your needle or hook into each subsequent stitch. Space your pickups evenly according to your pattern or preference. If your piece doesn’t have designated stitches for pickup, simply insert your needle or hook into the edge where it looks appropriate.

5. Secure the stitches: Once you’ve picked up all the necessary stitches, make sure they don’t unravel. To do this, you can either knit the first row with the stitches you’ve picked up or them on a stitch holder or spare needle until you’re ready to use them.

6. Dealing with corners: When you reach a corner, you might need to pick up additional stitches to avoid puckering. To do this, insert your needle or hook into the corner stitch, make a loop around it, and continue picking up stitches along the adjacent edge.

7. Finishing touches: After picking up all your stitches, you can continue knitting or follow your pattern instructions for the desired feature. If you’re adding a collar or button band, you might need to decrease or stitches to maintain a proper fit.

Remember, practice makes perfect. If your first attempt at picking up stitches along the edges doesn’t look flawless, don’t be discouraged. With time, your technique will improve, and you’ll master this essential knitting skill. Happy knitting!