How to Knit Garter Stitch in The Round

The garter stitch is one of the simplest and most beloved stitches in the knitting world, known for its bumpy texture and excellent elasticity. Its simplicity makes it a popular choice for beginners and seasoned knitters alike, often appearing in scarves, blankets, and other cozy projects. However, knitting garter stitch in the round presents a unique challenge.

Unlike flat knitting, where garter stitch is created by alternating knit rows, circular knitting requires a different approach since every round is worked in the same direction. This article aims to demystify the process and provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to knit garter stitch in the round. Whether you are new to circular knitting or looking to refine your technique, this guide will help you achieve the perfect garter stitch on your next round project.

Understanding Garter Stitch

The garter stitch is formed by knitting every row when working flat, which creates a fabric characterized by horizontal ridges and a bumpy texture. This stitch pattern is simple yet versatile, offering a unique blend of stretchiness and robustness, making it a favorite among knitters. Its elasticity is ideal for projects requiring flexibility, such as scarves, blankets, and baby garments, while its distinct texture adds an appealing visual and tactile element.

The garter stitch’s versatility allows it to be used in a variety of patterns and projects, often serving as a foundation for more intricate designs. Its reversible nature—it looks the same on both sides—is another advantage, adding to its widespread popularity in the knitting community.

However, achieving a garter stitch in the round introduces a challenge. Since circular knitting progresses continuously in the same direction, simply knitting every round results in a stockinette stitch, not a garter stitch. Traditionally, garter stitch in flat knitting requires alternating rows of knit and purl stitches. Translating this to circular knitting demands a slightly different approach, requiring either alternating knit and purl rounds or turning the work after each round. These adaptations maintain distinctive garter ridges, even when working in the round.

Materials Needed

Yarn:

When choosing yarn for your garter stitch in the round project, consider the weight and type that best suits your design. Yarn weights can range from lace to bulky, each providing different textures and warmth. The fiber content—such as wool, cotton, or acrylic—also impacts the drape and feel of your finished piece. Choose a yarn that complements both the function and aesthetic of your project.

Needles:

To knit the garter stitch in the round, you will need either circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs). Circular needles are excellent for larger projects, allowing you to knit seamlessly in the round. DPNs are more practical for smaller projects like socks or mittens. Always use the needle size recommended for your chosen yarn weight to achieve the correct gauge.

Stitch Markers:

Stitch markers are essential for keeping track of the beginning of each round. They help maintain pattern integrity and ensure that you can easily manage any complex stitch patterns.

Tapestry Needle:

Once your project is complete, a tapestry needle is crucial for weaving in ends. Choose a needle with a blunt tip and a large eye to accommodate your yarn, ensuring a neat and secure finish.

Casting On

Choosing the Right Cast-On Method:

Selecting the appropriate cast-on method is pivotal for the success of your garter stitch in the round project. The long-tail cast-on is highly recommended due to its flexibility and stability. This method provides a sturdy edge that can endure the elasticity of the garter stitch, ensuring your project maintains its shape and structure. To perform the long-tail cast-on, measure a tail roughly three times your project’s width, make a slip knot, and then cast on stitches by looping the yarn over the needles using both the tail and the working yarn.

Joining in The Round:

Once you have cast on the required number of stitches, the next crucial step is joining in the round. Ensure that all the stitches are aligned and not twisted around the needle. A twisted stitch can create unwanted twists in your fabric, compromising your piece’s overall look and functionality. Carefully bring the ends of the needle together, and with the working yarn at the right needle tip, begin knitting to join the stitches in the round.

Placing a Stitch Marker:

After joining in the round, place a stitch marker on your needle to mark the beginning of the round. This marker is essential for maintaining your pattern and tracking your rounds accurately. As you knit, ensure you slip the marker from the left to the right needle each time you pass it to keep it in place and avoid losing track of the beginning of each round.

How to Knit Garter Stitch in The Round: Methods to Follow

Method 1: Alternating Knit and Purl Rounds

Explanation:

Achieving garter stitch in the round requires a different technique than flat knitting, where alternating rows of knit stitches create the characteristic bumpy texture. This effect can be replicated in circular knitting by alternating between knitting and purling each round.

Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Knit the First Round: Start by knitting every stitch in the round, which sets the foundation for the garter texture.
2. Purl the Second Round: On the next round, purl every stitch. This alternation between knit and purl stitches mirrors the flat knitting method.
3. Repeat These Two Rounds for the Entire Project: Continue this pattern—knitting one round, then purling the next—throughout your project to maintain consistent garter stitch.

Tips for Maintaining Tension:

• Keeping Consistent Tension Between Knit and Purl Rounds: To ensure an even fabric, it’s crucial to maintain consistent tension between knit and purl rounds. Pay close attention to your yarn hold and hand movements to avoid loose or tight stitches.

Benefits:

• Traditional Method, Suitable for Any Project Size: This method is a tried-and-true technique that works well for projects of any scale, from small accessories like socks to large garments like sweaters. It provides the traditional garter stitch look and is straightforward once you develop a rhythm.

Method 2: Turning the Work

Explanation:

An alternative method to achieve a garter stitch in the round involves turning the work at the end of each round to knit back in the opposite direction. This technique eliminates the need to purl, making it appealing to those who prefer knitting all stitches.

Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Knit One Round: Begin by knitting every stitch around, as you would typically do.
2. Slip Marker, Turn the Work, and Knit Back in the Opposite Direction: At the end of the round, slip your stitch marker, turn your work as if you are about to start a new row in flat knitting, and then knit in the opposite direction.
3. Repeat for the Entire Project: Continue this process—knitting one round, turning your work, and knitting back in the opposite direction—to create the garter stitch pattern.

Tips for Avoiding Gaps:

• Making Sure to Snug Up the First Stitch After Turning: To prevent gaps at the beginning of each round, ensure the first stitch after turning is snugged up well. This practice helps maintain a uniform appearance and avoids loose threads.

Benefits:

• Simpler for Knitters Who Prefer Not to Purl: This method is particularly beneficial for knitters who are more comfortable knitting rather than purling. It simplifies the knitting process while still achieving the desired garter stitch texture, making it a versatile and accessible technique.

Finishing the Project

Binding Off:

Choosing a Stretchy Bind-Off Method for Garter Stitch:

When binding off your garter stitch project, selecting a stretchy bind-off method is vital to ensure the edge remains elastic and conforms to the fabric’s natural give. Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind-Off is highly recommended for garter stitch in the round. This method balances flexibility and stability, providing a neat and stretchy finish that complements the garter stitch’s texture. To perform this bind-off, you will add a yarn-over before each knit stitch and purl stitch, then bind off as usual.

Weaving in Ends:

Using a Tapestry Needle to Weave Ends Into the Garter Ridges:

After binding off, the next step is to weave in the ends securely. For this task, utilize a tapestry needle with a blunt tip and a large eye. Thread the remaining yarn through the eye of the needle and weave it through the garter ridges. Aim to follow the path of the yarn within the existing stitches to create a seamless integration and prevent the ends from working loose over time.

Blocking the Finished Piece:

Gentle Blocking Techniques to Even out Stitches and Enhance Texture:

Blocking your finished garter stitch piece will even out the stitches and enhance the overall texture. Soak the piece in lukewarm water with a mild wool wash for gentle blocking. Gently press out excess water and lay the piece flat on a clean towel to dry, carefully shaping it to the desired dimensions. Use rust-proof pins to secure the edges if necessary, ensuring the fabric remains even and retains its shape as it dries. This process will give your project a polished and professional look.

Tips and Tricks

Managing Stitch Markers:

Keeping Track of The Beginning of The Round:

Stitch markers are essential for circular knitting, and keeping track of the beginning of the round is crucial for maintaining your pattern. Use a distinct, easily identifiable marker for the start of the round. As you knit, ensure you always slip the marker from the left to the right needle without knitting it. Consider using locking stitch markers or safety pins if you need to mark specific stitches or pattern repeats within your round.

Consistent Tension:

Maintaining Even Tension Throughout the Project:

Consistent tension ensures a uniform fabric and enhances the overall appearance of your garter stitch project. To maintain even tension, practice consistently holding your yarn and using the same hand movements for knit and purl rounds. Relax your hands and shoulders to avoid unnecessary stiffness. Taking regular breaks during knitting can also prevent tension-related issues.

Fixing Mistakes:

Identifying and Correcting Common Errors in Garter Stitch in The Round:

Mistakes can happen, but knowing how to fix them can save your project. Common errors include losing track of your rounds, resulting in uneven texture, or dropping stitches. If you notice an error, use a crochet hook to pick up dropped stitches, following the pattern to recreate the correct texture. Lifelines—threads run through a row of stitches—can be inserted at intervals to make it easier to unravel and correct sections if needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we explored two primary methods for knitting garter stitches in the round. Method 1 involves purling every other round, which provides a traditional garter stitch look and is straightforward once you develop a rhythm. Method 2, turning the work, eliminates the need to purl, making it appealing for those who prefer knitting all stitches. Both methods are effective, and the choice ultimately depends on your knitting style and the specific requirements of your project.

Remember, the beauty of knitting lies in its flexibility—there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Feel free to experiment with both methods to find the one that suits you best. The versatility and timeless appeal of garter stitch mean it can be adapted to many projects, adding texture and interest to your knitting endeavors. Embrace the process and enjoy the journey of mastering how to knit garter stitch in the round.