Explore guide
Graft live stitches
Use a grafting sequence for the actual stitch structure and needle orientation. Secure the live loops and distinguish setup actions from the repeating sequence.
Related lessons and tools
Use a grafting sequence for the actual stitch structure and needle orientation. Secure the live loops and distinguish setup actions from the repeating sequence.
Before you start
Use smooth, light yarn and a small sample that matches the lesson’s flat or circular construction. Mark the right side and record the starting stitch count. Follow the pattern’s own stitch key.
How to do it
- For stockinette grafting only, hold equal live stitches on two parallel needles, tips right, wrong sides facing. Thread a tapestry needle with the back piece’s tail. Setup: pass through the first front stitch purlwise and leave it on; through the first back stitch knitwise and leave it on.
- Repeat with the sewing needle: front knitwise, off; next front purlwise, stay; back purlwise, off; next back knitwise, stay. At the final pair, work the two “off” actions only. Leave the new row loose, then adjust it to match neighboring stitches before securing the tail.
Try this example
Graft two six-stitch stockinette samples with contrasting practice yarn. Leave the joins loose, trace the recreated row, then adjust tension one stitch at a time.
Check your result
- Count live stitches, trace one column and inspect both faces. Compare the relaxed edge with the middle of the sample before repeating the operation on a project.
- Stitch names and mounts vary between knitting styles. Follow the required fabric structure and pattern key rather than assuming every front loop is the correct entry point.
Sources
- www.purlsoho.com: kitchener stitch video
- www.garnstudio.com: lessons.php
- journals.aps.org: PhysRevX.8.021075
