Are you passionate about learning the next level of knitting skills? Great! Double knitting might sound complicated for beginners, but don’t worry; it’s much easier than you think! The technique helps you create two layers of fabric simultaneously, using knitting needles with knit stitches on both sides, producing a warm, reversible design perfect for scarves, hats, or blankets. Let’s discuss the details of double knitting, the step-by-step process to create, and tips for making a successful project.
So, get ready to dive into this beautiful world of double-knit.
What is double knitting?
Double knitting is a unique method where you produce two layers of fabric simultaneously. The technique creates two sides with its own color or pattern or a simple stockinette on both sides in the same shade. Do you know, what is the best part about it? The fabric is fully reversible, meaning both sides look equally beautiful and fantastic. Imagine knitting a scarf or attractive sweater that shows one color on one side and another on the reverse, or even patterns that mirror each other! You will be glad to know it is easier or faster than knitting two pieces separately. Plus, it’s the perfect winter stitch pattern creating warm and reversible sides on either side.
Another feat of the double knitting technique is it’s an incredible colorwork knitting method. You can refer to our guide on the 7 popular colorwork knitting techniques.
Materials you need
Before you start creating your dream project, gather all the necessary tools required:
- Select a yarn in which you are comfortable according to your pattern.
- Choose knitting needles as per your project requirements. You can opt for circular knitting needles if you are working on a large round project. These are the best options as they have a flexible cord and can hold many stitches. For smaller projects like a hat or warm socks, use double-pointed needles or DPNs.
- To give a perfect shape to your project, use knitting accessories, like a finishing needle, stitch markers, or scissors to cut the extra yarn.
Wait! Why learn double knitting?
- If you want to create a stitch pattern in which the right and wrong side looks identical, go for the double knitting technique. You get an amazing design!
- Get extra warmth during the winter season using a double knitting pattern.
- Do you want to experiment with contrasting colors for remarkable effect? Great! Add this creative pattern to your craft collection.
Step-by-step- guide to create a double-knitting pattern
Let’s learn this technique step by step. Choose two contrasting colors of your favorite yarn to make the most of your double-knit project. We recommend you start with worsted-weight yarn and appropriately sized knitting needles.
Step 1: Slip Knot
Start with a slip knot with both yarns.
Step 2: Cast on Stitches
When you apply double knitting to your project, cast on for both layers at the same time. Using the long-tail cast-on method, alternate between the two yarns for each stitch. For example, your first stitch will be in color A, and the next will be in color B, and continue this pattern.
Step 3: Begin Knitting
In this technique, you need to hold both strands of yarn as you knit. - Knit the first stitch with color A (for the front layer). Then, bring both yarns to the front, and purl the next stitch with color B (for the back layer). Repeat this pattern across the row. Knit with color A, purl with color B.
Once you finish your row, turn your work and repeat the same process. Keep in mind that you should knit the front stitches and purl the back stitches using their respective yarn colors. Great work!
You can continue this pattern for as many rows as your pattern instructs. You’ll notice both sides of the fabric growing at once.
Step 4: Bind Off
To bind off, hold both strands of yarn as one and knit the first two stitches together. For this, use the same color as the stitch, knit one stitch, and bind off one stitch; then, using the same color as the stitch, purl one stitch, and bind off one stitch. Repeat this step, until you are left with two stitches. Using both strands of yarn, knit two together. To weave the loose end, use a finishing needle.
Congratulations on completing your first double-knit project!
Suggestions/tips to make your project successful?
- Double-knit projects will become easier when you can hold the yarn comfortably in each hand. You need to grasp the yarn to be purled on the left and the yarn to be knit in the right hand.
- Before starting your final project, try a small project like a swatch or potholder.
- To keep track of stitches, use stitch markers, when working on a complex project.
- Keep yarn tension even to avoid one-sided pulling tighter than the other.
So, are you ready with your premium knitting needles and yarn?
Ultimately, double knitting opens up a world of creative opportunities, and it’s not as hard as it seems! Regular practice makes it easier to create reversible, colorful projects within a few minutes. Whether making a cozy scarf or experimenting with different patterns, double knitting is a fun, interesting, and rewarding skill to add to your knitting toolkit.