Add a Stitch of Interest

October 26th, 2009 by Lindsey

If you’re getting bored of garter and stockinette stitch, try something new! I personally love experimenting with the textures of different stitches.  Looking through the many stitches on StitchFinder, I always ask “What can I make with that stitch?”  The truth is I have too many ideas! Belts, scarves, shawls, blankets, maybe add a little lace here or a cable there… So I thought I’d share a few ideas with you.

First of all, when you’re experimenting with a new stitch, you really should do a gauge swatch.  But it’s not so bad, you’ll get the hang of the stitch and you can create a washcloth or squares for a patchwork blanket! Once you know the gauge you’ll be able to make a better decision about what to make and how many stitches to cast on.

Making anything square or rectangular with your new stitch will be a cinch!  Just decide on the length and width of your project and divide by the length and width of a repeat in your gauge swatch.  Just make sure you’re starting with the right number of stitches for your stitch pattern (for example, if your stitch pattern says “chain a multiple of 6 + 3″ and  you want 10 repeats you would chain 63).  From there you can make scarves, shawls, blankets, or pillow covers!  If you make a long skinny strip and add two D-ring to one end you’ll have a belt!  If you knit a rectangle, fold it in half, sew two sides together, and add a strap, you have a purse!

You can also add a new stitch to an existing pattern or idea.  Substitute stockinette for a more textured stitch; switch out one lace pattern for another or switch cables.  By simply switching up the stitch you use you keep your projects interesting!