Grafting (Kitchener Stitch)Updated 6 months ago

Grafting, often done using Kitchener Stitch, is a method of joining two sets of live stitches seamlessly. It’s most commonly used for sock toes but can also join other sections of knitting without a visible seam. Kitchener stitch creates a smooth, continuous fabric by mimicking the structure of knit stitches.

Steps for Grafting with Kitchener Stitch:

1. Set-Up: Arrange the two sets of live stitches on separate needles, with the wrong sides facing each other.
2. Preparation Stitches: Thread a tapestry needle with yarn and make one setup stitch on each needle.
3. Four-Step Sequence: Follow this pattern: Knit off, purl on (front needle), then purl off, knit on (back needle).
4. Repeat until all stitches are worked.

Tip: Keep tension consistent; pulling too tight can cause puckering, while loose tension can make the seam visible. Practicing Kitchener stitch on scrap yarn can help refine tension.

Troubleshooting Tip: If you make an error, carefully undo the last few stitches in reverse. Kitchener stitch can be challenging to fix once completed, so work slowly.