# [Graft live stitches](https://threadcabin.com/explore/191/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.

- Canonical page: https://threadcabin.com/explore/191/graft-live-stitches
- Language: en
- Published: 2026-09-25T17:26:33.7921705+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-25T17:26:40.7048141+00:00
- Craft: Knitting
- Primary image: [Illustration: Two rows of live knitted stitches facing each other on parallel needles, joined in the center by a smooth grafted section.](https://threadcabin.com/images/explore/focused/grafting.jpg)

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

1. 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.
2. 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](https://www.purlsoho.com/create/kitchener-stitch-video/)
- [www.garnstudio.com: lessons.php](https://www.garnstudio.com/lessons.php?show=knitting&cid=19)
- [journals.aps.org: PhysRevX.8.021075](https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.8.021075)

[Browse editable craft templates](/crafts?craft=knitting)

[Report a correction](/corrections).

## Sources and provenance

- [Reading knitting charts: rows, rounds, symbols, and repeats](https://threadcabin.com/explore/17/reading-knitting-charts-rows-rounds-symbols-and-repeats)
- [Understand knit and purl formation](https://threadcabin.com/explore/137/understand-knit-and-purl-formation)
- [Use a provisional cast-on](https://threadcabin.com/explore/136/use-a-provisional-cast-on)
- [Why stockinette curls and balanced structures behave differently](https://threadcabin.com/explore/10/why-stockinette-curls-and-balanced-structures-behave-differently)