Tip of the Week: Picking Up Stitches

Our tip this week is all about successfully picking up stitches

Picking up stitches is an essential technique in knitting that allows you to seamlessly add borders, button bands, necklines, or even repair mistakes. If you've ever struggled with uneven edges or gaps, these tips will help you achieve a clean and professional finish.

When Do You Need to Pick Up Stitches?  
Picking up stitches is commonly used for:  
- Necklines & Armholes – To create smooth, even edges when shaping garments.  
- Button Bands & Borders – Ensuring a neat and sturdy edge for finishing touches.  
- Sock Gussets – For a well-fitted heel without gaps.  
- Repairing Mistakes – If you've dropped stitches or need to fill in a gap, picking up stitches can save your project!

How to Pick Up Stitches Like a Pro  
1. Use the Right Needle Size  
   - For a snug, tidy edge, use a smaller needle than your main project. This prevents stretched stitches and keeps your work looking neat.

2. Identify the Right Spot  
   - Along cast-on or cast-off edges: Insert your needle into the loops at the edge.
   - Along side edges: Aim for the “V” of each stitch or the space between garter bumps to avoid gaps.
   - For garter stitch edges: Pick up one stitch for every ridge to maintain the correct proportions.
   - For stock stitch edges: A good rule is to pick up 3 stitches for every 4 rows to prevent puckering.

3. Use a Crochet Hook for Accuracy  
   - If picking up stitches directly with knitting needles feels fiddly, try using a crochet hook to pull the yarn through, then transfer the stitches to your needle.

4. Keep Tension Even  
   - Avoid pulling too tight, as this can distort your fabric. Likewise, if your stitches are too loose, your picked-up edge may look sloppy.

5. Double Check Your Stitch Count  
   - Count your stitches to make sure you’ve picked up the right number—this is especially crucial for symmetry in garments!

Troubleshooting Common Issues  
❌ Gaps between stitches? - Try picking up the stitch one row below where you think you should. This often helps fill in small holes.  
❌ Edge looks too tight or too loose? - Experiment with different needle sizes or adjust how many stitches you pick up per row.  
❌ Wonky stitches? - Blocking can work wonders for evening out your picked-up edge.

Practice Makes Perfect!  
If you’re new to picking up stitches, practice on a swatch before applying it to your main project. Over time, you’ll develop an eye for where to insert your needle and how to maintain even tension.

Got any top tips or struggles with picking up stitches? Let’s chat in the comments or on our socials — I’d love to hear your experiences!

Happy knitting! 🧶✨