How to Knit Into Front and Back (K1F&B)

Knitting into the front and back of a stitch (K1F&B) is one of the simplest and most popular increase techniques. With your knitting needles, you can easily add a stitch without leaving big spaces in your work, whether you're working on mittens, a lacy shawl, or a warm sweater. This technique will turn one stitch into two. Beginners may find this a little tricky, but don't worry, with continuous practice it is easy to handle. Let's explore how to knit front and back with our step-by-step instructions in this blog.

What is Front and Back Knitting?

There are various ways to increase the stitch count in the project. By knitting into the front and back of the same stitch, the increased stitch produces one extra stitch. You will get a horizontal bar at the base of the new stitch also known as bar increase. It is also abbreviated as 'K1FB' or 'K1F&B'. The technique is mostly used in the sweater pattern. You can refer to our beginner's guide on lace knitting to form a hole in the knitted fabric using the technique.

With double-pointed needles (DPNs) for smaller, in-the-round knitting or circular needles for seamless projects, K1F&B performs flawlessly. You can learn this fantastic technique by knitting a swatch and see which knitting needle works best for you. For practice, you can use any yarn in which you are comfortable. Along with needles, you must have knitting accessories as supporting tools from Lantern Moon, which includes a finishing needle, Meadow or Tassel stitch markers, and a pair of scissors.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Knit K1F&B

The technique is easy and the resultant increase leans toward the left. Here are simple steps that will help in understanding:

Step 1: Insert the needle into the front of the stitch (Knitting the first stitch)

To begin, simply insert your circular knitting needle or DPNs into the left-handed needle to make a knit stitch but don't slide the stitch off. Refer to our quick guide, and learn how to knit and purl for beginners.

Step 2: Knitting the Second Same Stitch

1. Now, you will see one new stitch on the right-hand needle, and the old stitch is still on the left-hand. To complete the increase, insert the needle into the back of the same old stitch.
2. The new stitch would be created in the same way as a front stitch.

Step 3:  Finishing the Increase in Knitting

1. Now, that you have two increased stitches on the right-hand needle, simply slide the original stitch off the left-hand needle.

When to use K1F&B

There are numerous projects, where you can use this method such as:

1. This increase is frequently used in cardigans, sweaters, and infant clothing.
2. Make the textured design in your fabric.
3. This increase is ideal for hats, mittens, and socks if you're using circular or double-pointed needles.

Key Points to Remember

Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind when working with front and back knitting:

1. While knitting into the back loop, beginners occasionally twist the stitch. To prevent distortion, make sure the needle is inserted accurately.
2. The method produces a slight bump, maintaining a constant tension is crucial.
3. Always use stitch markers to record your increases if you're increasing at certain points in a pattern.
4. Don't panic if you unintentionally drop a stitch. It can be easily picked up again with a crochet hook.

Alternative Increase Methods

The technique is easy for beginners, however, you might also look into additional ways:

1. Make one right (M1R) or left (M1L)  -  One of the common knitting increases and you can apply it to the existing stitches and increase the stitch the way you twist the yarn.
2. Yarn Over Increase (YO)-  To make a YO increase, simply work by wrapping the yarn over the needle between the two stitches. This will produce a small hole or eyelet, perfect for a lace pattern. Learn the beginner's guide to basic lace knitting with our blog.

Every technique has its own beauty and you can add uniqueness to your project by experimenting with versatile increase methods to give a perfect shape.

Knitters should become proficient in the front and back (K1F&B) and it's a simple method to increase stitches count. Once you know increases, it will open wide possibilities and you can add creative designs with a Tunisian crochet hook, combining knitting and crochet elements. Lantern Moon handcrafted premium quality knitting needles have a liquid silk finish that offers a smooth and effortless experience.