How to Knit Short Rows
Contents
Focus on short rows
Step 1: Knit short rows on moss stitch with the “wrap and turn” technique
Step 2: Knit short rows on stockinette stitch with the yarnover technique
Knitting short rows is a practical technique for making hats, nursing bras or stoles. The principle is to knit a part of the stitches of a row and then turn the work, leaving the other stitches on the needle. As the rows are not knitted entirely, you increase the height of one side of the work while giving it a flat or raised round shape, like a sock heel. So here are two easy and practical ways to knit short rows.
Focus on short rows
Short rows are useful for knitting layettes, such as bras, hats, and socks or shawls. This method gives a complete piece of work without adding a seam.
To knit short rows, follow the instructions in your knitting pattern. The pattern often indicates the number of stitches to be incorporated before turning the work.
The pattern may indicate several short rows in different places. It is advisable to count the rows carefully and note each step of short rows to avoid making mistakes in knitting, so the result remains invisible on the right side of the work.
1. Knit short rows on moss stitch with the “wrap and turn” technique
On moss stitch, the classic wrap and turn technique has the advantage of blending into the stitch. The idea is to wrap the yarn around an unknit stitch at the point where you need to turn the work to create the short row.
Start knitting the row and stop at the point indicated on the knitting pattern.
Leave the remaining stitches on the needle untouched.
Place the yarn connected to the ball in front of the work.
Slide the first stitch of the left needle onto the right needle without twisting it.
Place the thread back behind the work.
Slide the right needle stitch back onto the left needle.
Place the yarn of the work in front of the work. The stitch is “wrapped” with the yarn wrapped around it.
Turn the work over. The yarn is behind the work.
Knit the stitches normally right side up, then follow your pattern.
Note: this technique of short rows on moss stitch helps to avoid creating unsightly holes in the knitting.
2. Knit short rows on stockinette stitch using the yarnover technique
Another method of short rows should be used on the stockinette stitch to prevent the stitch wrap from being visible on the stitch. This method is quick and easy; you only need to know the cast-on technique, which involves wrapping the yarn connected to the ball around the right needle.
Start knitting to the point where the short row is to be formed.
Turn the work over with the yarn in front of the work.
Wrap the yarn around the right needle from right to left.
Slip the first stitch of the left needle onto the right needle as if knitting purl, without twisting it.
On the next row, knit to the slipped stitch. This is just before the cast on.
Knit this slip stitch to the right.
Then knit the cast-off together with the next stitch right side up.
Finish knitting the row in the usual way.
Continue as explained in your pattern.
Note: with this technique, the short rows are invisible on the right side of the work.
