Bind-Offs

From WikiKnitting.com

Contents 1 Summary 2 Basic Bind-Off 2.1 Tips 3 Sewn Cast-off 4 I-Cord Bind-Off

[edit] Summary

Bind-offs are used to finish the last row of stitches in a project. They are used for shaping when a decrease of several stitches is required, as is the case with armholes, necklines, and buttonholes.

[edit] Basic Bind-Off

This is the easiest and most common bind-off used.

• K2, lift the first stitch on the right needle over the second stitch and drop it off the needle. The first loop should now be around base of the second stitch.
• Repeat until there is one stitch left on the needle
• Cut the yarn with at least a 4" tail. Thread the tail through the last loop and pull to tighten.

[edit] Tips

• If you are purling your last row then you can use the same procedure, just substitute purl for knit.
• If you are working in a rib you can bind-off in pattern, alternate binding-off with knit and purl stitches in the same pattern as the rib, for a prettier edge.

[edit] Sewn Cast-off

This method produces an edge that looks much more like a cast on then a bind off. It was invented by Elizabeth Zimmerman.

1. Cut a long working tail and thread in onto a tapestry needle. I've found 3X your width works well
2. Go through the first 2 stitches as if to purl. Pull the yarn through.
3. Go back through the first stitch as if to knit. Pull the yarn through.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all stitches are cast-off.

[edit] I-Cord Bind-Off

The I-cord bind-off gives a thicker sturdier edge than a standard bind-off. It makes a great edging for felted bags.

• Cast on 3 stitches by backward loops on the left needle.
• *Knit 2, knit 2 together, slide 3 stitches to the left needle.* Repeat until the entire edge is bound off.
• When knitting in the round, using the tail of the yarn, graft the 3 remaining stitches to the 3 cast-on stitches, and fasten off.
• When knitting flat, cut the yarn with at least a 4" tail. Thread the tail through the remaining 3 loops and pull to tighten.