Cast on, Bind Off

Synopsis

Discover the perfect beginning and ending for every knitting project!

Detailed instructions for each technique are combined with step-by-step photography to help you create edges that are tighter, looser, stretchier, or lacier. No matter what you're knitting, Leslie Ann Bestor has the cast on and bind off that will give your project the perfect edge.

Summary

Chapter 1: Getting Started

This chapter introduces the basics of knitting, including materials and terms. It explains how to hold the needles and yarn and provides step-by-step instructions for casting on stitches.

Real Example: Casting on for a scarf:

* Hold a knitting needle in each hand, with the needle tips pointing away from you.
* Make a slip knot on the left-hand needle and transfer it to the right-hand needle.
* Hold the yarn over the needle and pull it through the loop on the left-hand needle, creating a new stitch.
* Repeat steps 2-3 until you have the desired number of stitches for your scarf.

Chapter 2: Basic Stitches

This chapter covers the two fundamental stitches in knitting: the knit stitch and the purl stitch. It provides clear instructions with diagrams and real-life examples.

Real Example: Knitting a garter stitch swatch:

* Cast on 15 stitches.
* Knit every row for 10 rows.
* This will create a small fabric swatch with vertical ridges, known as garter stitch.

Chapter 3: Shaping and Techniques

This chapter delves into techniques such as increasing and decreasing stitches, which are essential for shaping knitted garments. It also covers common knitting abbreviations.

Real Example: Decreasing for a hat:

* Knit to the stitch before the marker.
* Lift the stitch over the next stitch.
* Slip the lifted stitch back to the left-hand needle.
* Knit the next stitch.
* This creates a decrease, reducing the number of stitches in a row.

Chapter 4: Bind-Off Methods

This chapter provides comprehensive instructions on various bind-off methods, which are used to finish off a knitted piece securely. It includes bind-offs for different purposes and yarn weights.

Real Example: Bind-off for a scarf:

* Bind off in knit stitch by lifting the first stitch over the second stitch.
* Knit the next stitch and repeat steps 1-2 until all stitches are bound off.
* Pull the yarn tight and weave in the loose ends to secure the bind-off.

Chapter 5: Finishing and Embellishments

This chapter covers tips and tricks for finishing knitted projects, including blocking, seaming, and adding embellishments. It also provides guidance on troubleshooting common knitting errors.

Real Example: Blocking a knitted sweater:

* Soak the sweater in lukewarm water with a mild detergent.
* Squeeze out excess water and lay the sweater flat on a towel.
* Pin the edges and adjust the shape as it dries.
* Blocking helps to set the stitches and improve the texture of the garment.