The knitting experts: I would like to know if someone can help me. I don't know much about knitting, but am making a very simple afghan pattern. I was taught years ago to add 4 extra stitches. You always start with knit 2, do the pattern stitches and end with knit 2. My problem is my end stitches are always really loose. How can I get them tighter so it looks nicer.

oohh now i want to get my knitting needles out lol ..

2 comments

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

I just can sit and watch tv without doing something or I want to munch and can't afford the extra weight.

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

that should have I just can't sit and watch tv...

I tend to cast on a bit tightly therefore I use needles one size bigger for casting on, change back to the number I need in the first row. As for the edge, I do a slip stitch like the others.
Nice fan stitch you used!

1 comment

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

Thank you, slipping the first stitch is working really well. This is a very simple pattern, I just changed it up a little by doing 8 sets of the pattern which is 4 rows, and then 8 rows of just knitting to give a break in the afghan. I keep changing it each one I do. I am making 7 for next Christmas.

I agree with the other cuties, If you slip the first stitch it now only makes for a neater edge, it also helps keep the project from curling especially on stockinette stitch (K one roww P one row) If you are way into this project you can try putting one row of single crochet chain around the border, this will neaten it up and also give some interest..........Good luck.....

2 comments

by mooie24 18 Jan 2013

excellent advice.. just as my nana taught me :-)

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

Slipping the first stitch is working for me. Thank you

I slip (do not knit the first stitch with the thread front, then I put the thread behind and I knit the 2nd stitch, so the edge is very net. Hope it can help.***

1 comment

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

Slipping the first stitch has solved my problem. Thank you

Vicki (baskase) is the best knitter i know maybe she can help u ,i just use smaller needle but because i know this will happen i cast on those first stitches very looooooooooooose lol hugs

1 comment

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

I have tried to slip the first stitch and it is working perfectly for me. I cast on so tightly and loosen up considerably.

My trick is to simply slip (do not knit it) the first stitch. Keep it nice and tight on the side and neater,
hope this helps, give it a try.
hugs
Michelle

1 comment

by jerrib 18 Jan 2013

Thank you Michelle, this is working perfectly.