Welcome, DIY crafters! Whether you’re new to knitting or looking to refine your skills, mastering the stockinette stitch in the round is a valuable technique to add to your crafting arsenal. The stockinette stitch is a classic, versatile stitch characterized by its smooth, V-shaped pattern on the front and a bumpy texture on the back. When working in the round, you only need to knit every stitch, making it a favorite among knitters for projects like hats, socks, and seamless sweaters.
In this comprehensive guide on how to stockinette stitch in the round, we’ll walk you through ten simple steps to perfect your stockinette stitch in the round. Let’s get started!
What is the Stockinette Stitch?
The stockinette stitch is one of the most basic stitches in knitting and is also known as the stocking stitch or simply ‘stocking’. It creates a smooth, flat fabric with excellent drape and stretch. This makes it ideal for projects like scarves, blankets, and garments.
It is formed by alternating knit and purl stitches, where the knit stitches are worked on the right side (RS) of the fabric and the purl stitches on the wrong side (WS). When worked in rows, this creates a pattern of V-shaped ridges on one side and bumps on the other. However, when worked in rounds, only knit stitches are needed to create a uniform stockinette stitch.
10 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Stockinette Stitch in the Round
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before diving into the knitting process, make sure you have all the necessary materials:
Yarn:
Choose a yarn that suits your project. Worsted-weight yarn is ideal for beginners.
Circular Knitting Needles:
Ensure the needle length matches your project. For smaller items like hats, you might use a 16-inch circular needle.
Stitch Markers:
These will help you keep track of the beginning of your round.
Scissors:
To cut your yarn.
Tapestry Needle:
For weaving in ends.
Step 2: Cast On Your Stitches
Begin by casting the required number of stitches for your project. This can be done using the long-tail cast-on method, which provides a flexible yet sturdy edge. Ensure the total number of stitches is even to maintain the consistency of the stockinette stitch pattern. If you’re using circular needles, distribute the stitches evenly around the needle.
Make sure the stitches aren’t twisted and that the cast-on edge forms a neat circle. Place a stitch marker at the beginning of the round to indicate the start of your knitting.
Step 3: Join in the Round
To begin knitting in the round, you need to join your stitches. Be careful not to twist them. Here’s how:
- Spread the stitches around the circular needle.
- Ensure that all the cast-on edges are facing inward and the working yarn is on the right-hand needle.
- Place a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round.
- Slip the first stitch from the left needle to the right needle and knit the first stitch.
Step 4: Start Knitting
Now that you have joined your stitches in the round, it’s time to start knitting. With the working yarn in your right hand, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle. Wrap the yarn around the right needle and pull it through the stitch, sliding the original stitch off the left needle. Repeat this process for each stitch around the needle.
Continue knitting every stitch as you work your way around each round. Since you are working in the round, there are no purl stitches involved, making it an effortless and meditative process. As you progress, you will begin to see the smooth, V-shaped stockinette pattern emerging. Keep knitting until your project reaches the desired length. Don’t forget to keep track of your rounds using your stitch markers!
Step 5: Continue Knitting Each Round
With your stitches comfortably joined in the round and your knit stitches flowing, the next step is to maintain consistency. Continue knitting each stitch around, ensuring that your tension remains even. This uniformity in tension is critical, as uneven stitches can disrupt the smooth appearance of the stockinette stitch.
Knitting in the round can be quite rhythmic, so find your groove and keep going until you reach the desired length for your project. Periodically check your work for any mistakes and correct them promptly to avoid complications later on. Enjoy the process and watch as your project gradually takes shape with each round you complete.
Step 6: Check Your Tension
Consistency in tension is key to achieving a neat stockinette stitch. Ensure that your stitches are neither too tight nor too loose. If you’re finding it difficult to maintain even tension, practice is your best friend. Take breaks and shake out your hands to avoid cramping. It’s also helpful to knit a few rows, then check your tension and make any necessary adjustments.
Step 7: Managing the Ladder Effect
When knitting in the round, you might notice a loose column of stitches forming where the needles join. This is known as the “ladder effect.” To minimize it, ensure that the first and last stitches of each round are extra tight. You can also use double-pointed needles (DPNs) or the Magic Loop method if ladders persist.
Step 8: Mark Important Rounds
Using stitch markers, mark specific rounds to help you keep track of your progress. This is especially useful for projects that require shaping or pattern changes, such as decreases for a hat or increases for a sweater. You can also use markers to indicate the beginning of each new color stripe for a multicolored project. But remember to always remove the markers as you reach them.
Step 9: Bind Off
Once you’ve reached your desired length, it’s time to bind off. To do this, knit the first two stitches, then pass the first stitch over the second and off the needle. Knit another stitch and repeat the process until only one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail, and pull it through the last stitch to secure it.
Step 10: Weave in the Ends
Finally, using a tapestry needle, weave in the loose ends on the inside of your project. This step ensures that your work remains neat and prevents the stitches from unraveling. Though it may seem tedious, taking a few extra minutes to weave in the ends will give your project a polished and professional finish.
Following these steps on how to stockinette stitch in the round, you can confidently knit the stockinette stitch in the round and create a variety of projects like hats, cowls, and even sweaters. Experiment with different yarns and needle sizes to create unique textures and patterns. With practice and patience, you will become a pro at knitting in the round and enjoy this versatile and satisfying technique. Happy knitting!
Do You Need to Use Circular Needles to Knit in the Round?
No, you can also use double-pointed needles (DPNs) or the Magic Loop method. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the size of your project. Circular needles are best suited for larger projects, while DPNs work well for smaller ones. The Magic Loop method allows for knitting on a longer circular needle, making it suitable for both large and small projects. So, choose the method that works best for you and your project. Happy knitting!
However, keep in mind that if your project has a small diameter, using circular needles or DPNs will be more efficient than using straight needles due to their shorter length.
Additionally, working with circular needles can alleviate stress on your wrists and hands, as the weight of the project is evenly distributed. This can be beneficial for those with hand or wrist pain, making knitting in the round a more comfortable option. Remember to always take breaks and listen to your body while knitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Use This Technique to Knit for Any Project?
A: Yes, the stockinette stitch in the round can be used for a variety of projects, including hats, cowls, scarves, and even sweaters.
Q: What if I Make a Mistake While Knitting in the Round?
A: If you make a mistake, you can simply undo the last few stitches and re-knit them correctly. Alternatively, you can use a crochet hook to fix any mistakes without having to unravel your work completely.
Q: Do I Have to Use Circular Needles to Knit in the Round?
A: No, you can also use double-pointed needles (DPNs) or the Magic Loop method for knitting in the round. However, circular needles are often preferred for their ease of use and portability.
Q: How Do I Know When to Change Colors for Stripes?
A: You can mark specific rounds with stitch markers when knitting in the round to indicate when to switch colors for stripes. Alternatively, you can count your rounds and change colors after a certain number of rounds have been completed.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the stockinette stitch in the round. This technique opens up a world of possibilities for creating seamless, well-crafted projects. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t flawless.
With time, you’ll develop the consistency and confidence needed to tackle more intricate designs. Thanks for reading this article on how to stockinette stitch in the round.
About the Author
Adrien Rowe, an expert in knitting, fiber arts, and bookbinding, promotes sustainability and creativity through workshops and tutorials. Passionate about education and community, he inspires crafters of all levels to learn, share, and grow in a supportive, idea-driven environment.
Professional Focus
Specializes in advanced knitting techniques, fiber manipulation, and textile innovation.
Expert in book arts, including cotton papermaking, handmade paper techniques, and bookbinding.
Dedicated to educating and inspiring crafters of all skill levels through tutorials, workshops, and hands-on learning experiences.
Passionate about creating a supportive community where makers can share ideas, learn, and grow.
Education History
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Textiles.
University of Iowa Center for the Book – Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Book Arts.
Expertise:
Advanced knitting, fiber manipulation, papermaking, bookbinding, sustainability-focused crafting, educational workshops, creative tutorials, and fostering a supportive maker community.