Say goodbye to curling! 7 easy tips for knitting beginners

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Why Does Knitting Curl?
3. Adding a Selvage Edge
   • Garter Stitch Edge
   • Seed Stitch Border
   • Slip Stitch Border
   • Lace Border
4. Adding Rows in Garter Stitch
5. Blocking Your Knitting
6. Using a Different Stitch
   • Double Stockinette Stitch
   • Brioche Stitch
   • Twisted Rib or Normal Rib Stitch
7. Adding a Crochet Border
8. Lining Your Knitting with Fabric
9. Knitting with Bigger Needles
10. Intentionally Dropping Stitches

How to Keep Knitting from Curling

Knitting is a wonderful craft that allows you to create beautiful and cozy items. However, if you've ever knitted a scarf or another project in stockinette stitch, you may have noticed that the edges tend to curl inwards. This can be frustrating and make your project look shorter and less polished. In this article, we will explore different techniques and methods to keep your knitting from curling.

1. Introduction

Introduce the topic of knitting and the issue of curling in stockinette stitch. Explain that this article will provide various solutions to prevent curling.

2. Why Does Knitting Curl?

Explain the reason why knitting curls in stockinette stitch. Discuss the tension created by knit stitches and how it relates to the curling effect. Emphasize the importance of understanding this concept for finding effective remedies.

3. Adding a Selvage Edge

Explain the concept of a selvage edge and how it can prevent curling. Discuss four popular ways to knit a selvage edge, including garter stitch, seed stitch, slip stitch, and lace border. Provide step-by-step instructions for each method.

4. Adding Rows in Garter Stitch

Discuss the technique of adding rows in garter stitch at the bottom or top of a project to prevent curling. Highlight the simplicity of this method and its effectiveness in keeping the edges flat.

5. Blocking Your Knitting

Explain the process of blocking knitting and how it can help reduce curling. Discuss the steps involved, including soaking the project in lukewarm water, carefully wringing it out, and pinning it into shape. Emphasize the importance of not over-stretching the knitting during blocking.

6. Using a Different Stitch

Highlight the possibility of knitting in a different stitch to avoid curling. Discuss alternative stitches such as double stockinette stitch, brioche stitch, twisted rib, and normal rib stitch. Explain the characteristics of each stitch and their suitability for preventing curling.

7. Adding a Crochet Border

Explain how adding a crochet border can prevent curling. Provide instructions for adding a row of double-chain stitches to the edges of the knitting. Discuss the option of using a contrasting color for the crochet border to enhance the appearance.

8. Lining Your Knitting with Fabric

Discuss the technique of lining your knitting with fabric to prevent curling. Explain the importance of choosing a fabric that is similar in weight to the knitting. Mention the availability of tutorials on YouTube for learning how to sew the fabric in place.

9. Knitting with Bigger Needles

Explain how knitting with larger needles can reduce curling. Discuss the concept of giving the stitches more room to breathe, resulting in less tension and curling. Mention the need to consider the impact of larger needles on the fabric's characteristics.

10. Intentionally Dropping Stitches

Discuss the unconventional technique of intentionally dropping stitches to create a fringy edge that prevents curling. Explain the process of unraveling the dropped stitch and either leaving it as is or grafting purl stitches with a crochet hook to add ribbing.

Conclusion

Summarize the various techniques discussed in the article for keeping knitting from curling. Encourage readers to experiment with different methods and find the ones that work best for their projects. Remind them to enjoy the process of knitting and to seek further guidance and inspiration from the knitting community.