Basic stitches

Casting on­-the process of making stitches on the needles for knitting. There are several different ways to do this. Experiment with different techniques to find the easiest one for you.

Knitting­-weaving yarn into loops on needles forming a fabric for apparel or household items. Also defines a stitch used. When rows are knitted across, a horizontally ridged fabric is made called garter stitch.

Purling­-working a stitch opposite from knit. When rows are knit then purled alternately across, the fabric has a smooth appearance on the front and ridges on the back; also called stockinette stitch.

Ribbing­-combining knit stitches and purl stitches within a row. This gives a stretch to the fabric and is used for cuffs, waistlines and neck edges for garments.

Increases and Decreases­-making new stitches to increase the width of the fabric or knitting stitches together to narrow the width of the fabric.

Slipping stitches and yarn overs­-used for creating a lace effect in the fabric.

Pattern stitches­-a combination of knit stitches and purl stitches to create a texture in the fabric.