What You’ll Learn
What “Picking Up Stitches” Really Means
• How picking up differs from knitting existing live stitches
• Why stitches are created from finished edges
• When picking up is the correct technique and when it isn’t
Where You Can Pick Up Stitches
• Along cast-on edges
• Along bound-off edges
• Along vertical and sloped edges
• Why stitches are never picked up in a seam
How to Pick Up Stitches Cleanly
• Where to insert the needle for stable, even stitches
• How to space stitches so edges stay flat
• Maintaining consistent tension
Ratios and Placement
• Why you don’t always pick up one stitch per row
• How stitch ratios affect drape and structure
• Adjusting placement for different edge types
Troubleshooting
• Fixing puckered or flared edges
• Correcting uneven spacing
• Knowing when to stop and re-pick for a better result
⏱️ Takeaway
You’ll leave knowing where, when, and how to pick up stitches so new sections flow smoothly from existing fabric, creating edges that look intentional, balanced, and professional.
Homework
Using worsted-weight yarn and US 6, 7, or 8 needles:
CO 20 stitches and work in stockinette stitch (K 1 row, P 1 row) for 10 rows
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Row 1 (RS): BO 3 stitches, knit to end
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Row 2 (WS) and all WS rows: Purl
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Rows 3, 5, and 7: K2tog, knit to end
Work 4 more rows in stockinette stitch
BO all stitches