Are you a beginner knitter? Or have you always wondered why you need to knit a selvedge stitch? In this blog post, we’ll explain why you knit a selvedge stitch and show you different types of selvedge stitches. Keep reading to find out more!
What is a lace stitch, and why do you knit a lace stitch?
When you start a Knitting Pattern, it often includes instructions for a selvedge stitch. The selvedge stitches are the first and last stitches on the needle. It might not seem that important, but a well-chosen edge stitch ensures that the edges of the pattern sections are neatly finished or properly prepared for assembling the separate pieces. Since every pattern is different and the type of stitch you’re knitting also matters, it’s helpful to understand the differences between the various types of edge stitches. Check out the 4 most commonly used edge stitches below and give them a try yourself!
Knit the Garter Stitch and Lace Stitch
The ribbed edge stitch is a decorative stitch that features small bumps along the edge. This edge stitch prevents the edges of the knitting from curling. You can use this stitch for both garter stitch and stockinette stitch projects. This gauge swatch is knitted in stockinette stitch (1 row knit, 1 row purl, alternating) with a ribbed edge stitch.
Here's how to knit the garter stitch: Knit the first and last stitches of each row.
Knit a Flat Edge Stitch – Edge with a Dropped Stitch
The flat edge stitch, also known as a chain edge or chain-stitch edge, gives a nice, smooth finish to the sides of your knitting. This edge stitch is especially suitable for patterns and pattern sections where you’ll later pick up stitches along the edge, or as a decorative edge for pattern sections that you don’t need to finish further. Think, for example, of the selvedges on the front panels of cardigans and the edges of scarves. You can use the flat edge stitch with both stockinette stitch and garter stitch.
Flat Edge Stitch with Stockinette Stitch
Here's how to knit the flat edge stitch in stockinette stitch:
Needle 1 (right side of the work): slip the first stitch of the needle knitwise, knit the last stitch of the needle.
Needle 2 (wrong side of the work): slip the first stitch of the needle purlwise, knit the last stitch of the needle.
Flat Edge Stitch with Garter Stitch
Here's how to knit the flat edge stitch with garter stitch:
Needle 1 (right side of the work): slip the first stitch of the row knitwise, then knit the last stitch of the row.
Needle 2 (wrong side of the work): slip the first stitch of the needle purlwise, knit the last stitch of the needle.
Knit the Double Edge Stitch
You knit a double edge stitch when you want to create a nice, sturdy edge, for example, when joining pattern sections of a heavier craft project, such as a Blanket. To do this, you knit a double edge stitch over the first and last two stitches of each row. With this double edge stitch, you end up with what looks like two chain edges on the back of the work.
Here's how to knit a double edge stitch:
At the beginning of the row: slip the first stitch purlwise, knit 1 stitch
At the end of the needle: knit until there are two stitches left on the needle, slip 1 stitch purlwise, knit the last stitch
Looking for more knitting inspiration?
Be sure to check out our other knitting blogs or take a look at our "Learn to Knit" tutorial page, which features helpful step-by-step instructional videos on various knitting stitches and techniques. Want to get started right away? Then shop for complete Knitting Kits and the most beautiful Knitting Patterns right in our online store. Happy knitting!
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