Master the Art of Figure 8 Double Knit with No Loose Loops

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Figure 8 Cast On
3. The Problem with Loose Loops
4. Introducing Brandy's Loom Knitting Technique
5. Benefits of Brandy's Technique
6. Tools and Materials Needed
7. Step-by-Step Instructions
   1. Making the Slipknot
   2. Wrapping the Figure 8
   3. Knitting off the Loops
   4. Working Back and Forth
8. Tips and Tricks for a Neat Edge
9. Applying Brandy's Technique to Different Projects
10. Conclusion

The Figure 8 Cast On: Say Goodbye to Loose Loops

If you're a loom knitting enthusiast, you're probably familiar with the traditional figure 8 cast on. While it is a versatile and popular technique, it often results in loose and loopy stitches at the beginning of your project. You may find yourself having to clean up these loose loops with a crochet hook or spend extra time tightening each stitch as you go. But what if there was a way to cast on and tighten up your loops from the start? Brandy Elizabeth Baird, a renowned loom knitting expert, has come up with a different approach to the figure 8 cast on that eliminates the problem of loose loops. In this article, we'll explore Brandy's technique and learn how to achieve a tight and tidy edge for all your double knitting projects.

Understanding the Figure 8 Cast On

Before we dive into Brandy's technique, let's quickly review the basics of the figure 8 cast on. In a figure 8 cast on, you create an "8" shape as you wrap the yarn around the pegs on your loom. This method allows you to establish the foundation stitches for your project. However, the traditional figure 8 cast on tends to result in loose stitches, especially at the bottom of your work. This can be frustrating, especially when you want your finished piece to have a clean and polished appearance.

The Problem with Loose Loops

Loose loops can be a common issue when using the figure 8 cast on method. These loose stitches not only affect the overall look of your project but can also cause complications when you reach the end and want to bind off. You may find yourself spending extra time and effort tightening each stitch to achieve a more even tension. This step can be time-consuming and may not always yield the desired results. Luckily, Brandy's technique offers an alternative solution that eliminates the need for post-cast-on adjustments.

Introducing Brandy's Loom Knitting Technique

Brandy Elizabeth Baird, a seasoned loom knitting expert and founder of the Facebook group "Lumineers for Life," has developed a unique method to cast on and tighten up the loops in a figure 8 cast on. This technique aims to create a neat and tight edge right from the start, ensuring that you don't have to spend extra time fixing loose stitches later on.

Benefits of Brandy's Technique

Brandy's technique offers several advantages over the traditional figure 8 cast on method. By following her approach, you can:

1. Achieve a clean and polished edge without loose loops.
2. Save time by avoiding the need to individually tighten each stitch after casting on.
3. Enjoy a more efficient and streamlined casting on process.
4. Create projects with a professional and finished look right from the beginning.

Tools and Materials Needed

To use Brandy's technique, you'll need the following tools and materials:

1. Loom: Any loom with pegs on each side will work for this technique.
2. Yarn: Choose a yarn of your preference, matching the recommended gauge for your project.
3. Crochet Hook: Optional, but can be helpful for fixing any minor issues or mistakes during the process.

Make sure you have all the necessary supplies before starting your project to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we've covered the basics and the benefits of Brandy's technique, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions. Following these simple instructions will help you achieve a tight and neat cast on edge.

1. Making the Slipknot: Begin by creating a slipknot and placing it on the first peg of your loom. Remember, if you're left-handed, reverse the instructions accordingly.

2. Wrapping the Figure 8: Start wrapping the yarn around the pegs, creating a figure 8 shape. Alternate between wrapping around the front and back sides of the pegs. Continue this pattern until you reach the desired number of stitches.

3. Knitting off the Loops: Once you've finished wrapping, start knitting off the loops. Begin from the last peg you wrapped and work your way back to the first peg. Knit off each loop individually, gradually tightening them as you go. This step ensures that your stitches are secure and eliminates any loose loops.

4. Working Back and Forth: After knitting off all the loops, continue alternating between working back and forth. Begin from the peg you ended on, moving in the opposite direction each time. This process ensures that your stitches remain tight and uniform throughout.

Continue working back and forth until you've finished casting on all the required stitches for your project.

Tips and Tricks for a Neat Edge

To achieve the best results with Brandy's technique, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Maintain tension: Pay attention to the tension of your yarn as you wrap and knit off the loops. Ensuring consistent tension will help achieve a neat and tidy edge.

2. Be mindful of long projects: If you're working on a long loom, be cautious of the excess yarn as you tighten the stitches. Holding onto the excess yarn prevents it from getting caught on other pegs and potentially disrupting your progress.

Applying Brandy's Technique to Different Projects

Brandy's technique can be applied to a wide range of loom knitting projects. Whether you're creating scarves, blankets, or other double knitting designs, using this technique will ensure a clean and professional edge. Experiment with different yarn weights and loom sizes to achieve the desired look and gauge for your specific project.

Conclusion

Say goodbye to loose loops and time-consuming adjustments with Brandy's loom knitting technique for the figure 8 cast on. By following her approach, you can achieve a neat and polished edge right from the start. Eliminate the frustration of loose stitches and enjoy a smoother and more efficient casting on process. Remember to practice the technique and make any necessary adjustments to suit your personal preferences. With Brandy's technique, you'll be able to create beautiful loom knitting projects with confidence and ease.

Highlights

• Brandy Elizabeth Baird's technique offers a solution to the problem of loose loops in the figure 8 cast on method.
• By following Brandy's technique, you can achieve a tight and neat cast on edge without the need for post-cast-on adjustments.
• The technique saves time and ensures a clean and polished look right from the start.
• You'll need a loom, yarn, and optional crochet hook to apply Brandy's technique.
• Step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, and tips ensure the best results.
• Brandy's technique can be used for different loom knitting projects, allowing for versatility and creativity.

FAQ

Q: Can I use any loom for Brandy's technique? A: Yes, you can use any loom with pegs on each side. The spacing between the pegs doesn't matter as it depends on your desired stitch width.

Q: Do I need to adjust my tension while using Brandy's technique? A: Yes, maintaining consistent tension is important throughout the wrapping and knitting off process. This ensures a neat and tidy edge.

Q: What should I do if the excess yarn gets caught on other pegs while tightening the stitches? A: If you're working on a long loom and dealing with excess yarn, make sure to hold onto it to prevent it from getting tangled or caught on other pegs. If it does get caught, simply unhook it and continue your work.

Q: Can I use Brandy's technique for different yarn weights and loom sizes? A: Absolutely! Brandy's technique can be adapted to suit different yarn weights and loom sizes. Experimentation with different combinations will help you achieve the desired look and gauge for your specific project.