Are you ready to dive into the world of double knitting? This advanced technique creates a reversible, double-layered fabric perfect for scarves, blankets, and more. You’re in the right place if you’re familiar with standard knitting charts but haven’t encountered double knitting charts yet!
In this post, you’ll learn the basics of double knitting charts, how to interpret them, and tips for managing yarn and correcting mistakes. Understanding double knitting charts allows you to easily create intricate patterns, making your projects beautiful and functional. Let’s break down some common questions and tips to help you get started.
Are you ready to dive into the world of double knitting? This advanced technique creates a reversible, double-layered fabric perfect for scarves, blankets, and more. You’re in the right place if you’re familiar with standard knitting charts but haven’t encountered double knitting charts yet!
In this post, you’ll learn the basics of double knitting charts, how to interpret them, and tips for managing yarn and correcting mistakes. Understanding double knitting charts allows you to easily create intricate patterns, making your projects both beautiful and functional. Let’s break down some common questions and tips to help you get started.
Basics of Double Knitting Charts
Q: What is a double knitting chart, and how does it differ from standard knitting charts?
A double knitting chart is typically a two-color chart, though more advanced charts may include three or more colors. Unlike standard charts that may use symbols, double knitting charts primarily use color blocks to guide your stitches. Each square on a double knitting chart represents two stitches: one knit and one purl, creating a fabric with two layers. There is usually a key to the chart.
Interpreting the Chart
Q: Each square on the chart represents one stitch in standard knitting. Is this the same for double-knitting charts? How do you tell which color to knit if the project involves multiple colors?
In double knitting charts, each square represents two stitches: a knit and a purl. The first stitch is always a knit in the color shown on the chart, followed by a purl in the second color. This method ensures both sides of your work have the correct pattern.
Color Coding and Symbols
Q: Are there specific symbols or color codes used in double knitting charts to differentiate between the two sides of the fabric? How do you read these symbols?
The first square on the bottom right of row 1 is your main color on the right side. For example, if your colors are black and white and the square is black, you knit the black and purl the white. On the wrong side, this reverses. For even rows, start with the second color, knit it, and purl the first color. Follow the chart, knitting the color shown.
Edges and Borders
Q: How do you handle edges and borders in a double knitting project to ensure they are neat and tidy?
Edges in double knitting must be joined. You can twist the yarns before starting your row or wait until the last two stitches: slip the first stitch, bring the purl color forward, and then slip the last stitch. This keeps the knit color at the back and the purl color at the front of the work. Another method is to use a selvage edge technique, which involves slipping the first and last stitches of each row to create a clean edge.
Tidy Slipped Edge Stitches in Double Knitting the Easy Way
Managing Yarn
Q: How do you manage the yarns in double knitting to avoid tangling and ensure even tension?
Manage your yarns similarly to stranded knitting. Keep the knit color in front if using the continental method with both yarns in one hand. Always hold the knit color in the same hand if using both hands. A consistent method throughout your project will help maintain even tension and avoid tangling.
Mistakes and Corrections
Q: If I make a mistake in a double knitting project, how can I decipher the issue from the chart and correct it?
Work in small sections, such as five stitches at a time, and frequently check against the previous row. If you make a mistake, tink (knit backward) to the correct spot. To tink, carefully unknit each stitch one at a time. Another helpful tip is to use lifelines – threads or yarns placed through a row of stitches – which can save your progress and make it easier to correct mistakes.
Advanced Techniques
Q: Once I’m comfortable with basic double knitting charts, what advanced techniques or patterns introduce new challenges like shaping or texture?
Advanced techniques in double knitting include cables, lace, and shaping. These can add texture and intricate designs to your projects. Experimenting with different yarn weights and textures can add variety to your double-knitting projects. While I haven’t personally tackled these, plenty of tutorials and videos are available to guide you through these intricate patterns.
Resources and Learning
Q: Do you have any recommendations for resources on learning and mastering double knitting charts?
YouTube is a treasure trove of helpful videos. Several blogs and books offer detailed guides and patterns to enhance double knitting skills. Some excellent books include “Double Knitting: Reversible Two-Color Designs” by M’Lou Baber and “Extreme Double Knitting” by Alasdair Post-Quinn. Online knitting communities and forums are also great places to ask questions and share tips.
I hope this guide helps you confidently navigate the world of double-knitting charts. Happy knitting! If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask.
