Slip Stitch Knitting (How To Slip Knit Stitches)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.In this blog post, you will learn everything about slip-stitch knitting and how to slip knit stitches.
In simple terms, slip stitch knitting is a technique in which knit stitches are slipped from one needle to another without being knit; this can be done either knitwise or purlwise.
It is a valuable tool for creating beautiful, textured patterns, whether for designing cozy garments, blankets, or stylish accessories.
How To Slip Stitches Knitwise And Purlwise
Slipping stitches is a common technique in knitting used to create various effects and textures or to shape your fabric.
Slipping stitches can be done either knitwise or purlwise, and the method you choose can affect the orientation of the slipped stitch, impacting the final appearance of your project.
Video Tutorial
This video may help you…
Here’s how to slip stitches both knitwise and purlwise:
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Slipping Stitches Knitwise
When you slip a stitch knitwise, you insert the needle as if you were going to knit the stitch. This means you insert the right-hand needle into the stitch from left to right, mimicking the action of a knit stitch. Here’s how to do it:
- Insert the Right Needle: With the yarn either in front or back as directed by your pattern, insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle as if you were going to knit it.
- Slip the Stitch: Instead of knitting the stitch, simply slide it from the left needle to the right needle without working it.
- Continue: Follow your pattern instructions for the next stitch.
Slipping stitches knitwise will twist the stitches, setting them up for decreases or specific stitch patterns where the orientation of the stitch is important.
Slipping Stitches Purlwise
When you slip a stitch purlwise, you insert the needle as if you were going to purl the stitch.
This keeps the stitch in its original orientation and is the method used most often when slipping stitches for decorative purposes or to carry the yarn across the back of the work.
Here’s how to do it:
- Insert the Right Needle: With the yarn either in front or back as directed by your pattern, insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle as if you were going to purl it. This means entering the stitch from right to left.
- Slip the Stitch: Slide the stitch from the left needle to the right needle without working it.
- Continue: Follow your pattern instructions for the next stitch.
Slipping stitches purlwise is commonly used in slip stitch knitting patterns or where the stitch’s orientation should not be altered.
General Tips:
- Yarn Position: Always be aware of where your yarn is. Yarn in front (WYIF) or yarn in back (WYIB) will affect the result. WYIF can create a strand across the front of the fabric, adding a decorative element.
- Patterns: Pay close attention to pattern instructions. Patterns will specify how to slip a stitch (either knitwise or purlwise) and where the yarn should be when slipping.
Slipping stitches correctly according to your pattern instructions is key to achieving the desired finish in your knitting project, whether you are shaping, creating texture, or adding colorwork.
What Is Slip-Stitch Knitting?
Slip stitch knitting is a technique used to create interesting textures and color patterns in knitting without the complexity of traditional stranded colorwork or intarsia.
This method involves “slipping” one or more stitches from the left needle to the right needle without actually knitting them.
Depending on the pattern, you might slip stitches with the yarn in front or the yarn in back, which can affect the texture and appearance of the fabric.
Here’s more detail on how it works and the effects it can achieve:
How Slip Stitch Knitting Works
Slipping Stitches: To slip a stitch, you simply move it from the left needle to the right needle without knitting or purling it. This can be done with the yarn held either in front of or behind the work.
Yarn in Front (wyif): When you slip a stitch with the yarn in front, it creates a small horizontal strand across the front of the work, adding to the texture.
Yarn in Back (wyib): Slipping stitches with the yarn in the back keeps the yarn strand hidden on the wrong side of the work, maintaining a smoother right side.
Uses of Slip Stitch Knitting
- Texture: Slip stitch knitting can be used to add depth and texture to your fabric. By slipping stitches, you can create raised ridges, interesting surface patterns, or a tweed-like effect.
- Colorwork: One of the most popular uses of slip stitch knitting is to create color patterns. By using multiple colors and only working with one color in a row or round while slipping stitches of another color, complex-looking designs can be achieved easily. This is much simpler than traditional colorwork techniques because you handle only one color at a time.
- Shaping and Edging: Although less common, slipping stitches can also be used in shaping or finishing edges, often giving a neater and more defined edge.
Advantages of Slip Stitch Knitting
- Simplicity: Slip stitch patterns are often easier to knit than more complicated colorwork because you don’t have to manage multiple strands of yarn at the same time.
- Versatility: This technique can be used in everything from simple dishcloths and scarves to sophisticated sweaters and throws.
- Efficiency: It uses less yarn than some other techniques, as slipping stitches can help extend the use of the yarn over more rows.
Slip stitch knitting is ideal for knitters looking to explore beyond basic stitches and patterns without diving into more intimidating techniques.
It’s an excellent way to add visual interest and texture to projects with minimal additional effort.
17 Free Slip Stitch Knitting Patterns
Slip stitch knitting is a versatile and engaging technique that adds depth and texture to your knitting projects without the complexity of more advanced methods.
This technique involves passing one or more stitches from the left needle to the right needle without actually knitting them.
By strategically slipping stitches, you can create intricate color patterns, rich textures, and eye-catching designs with minimal effort.
Slip stitch patterns are particularly beloved for their ability to blend colors beautifully and create dense, warm fabrics, making them ideal for everything from cozy sweaters and blankets to durable dishcloths and stylish scarves.
Whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into colorwork without the hassle of handling multiple yarns simultaneously, or an advanced knitter seeking to add a new dimension to your craft, slip stitch knitting offers a world of creative possibilities.
With this technique, you can achieve stunning visual effects while working primarily with basic knit and purl stitches, making it accessible and rewarding for knitters at all skill levels.
Happy Knitting!
How To Knit The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
In this post, you will see how to knit the linen stitch.
The linen stitch is an easy stitch pattern with a woven effect that uses slipped stitches to create texture.
You can use this fabric stitch pattern for a number of items where a firm fabric is preferred, from dishcloths, pot holders, table mats, table runners, blankets (a baby blanket), and more.
Plus, there is a video tutorial to help you along.
How To Knit Slip Stitch Rib (With Video Tutorial)
In this post, you will see how to knit the slip stitch rib pattern.
This is a textured reversible pattern that creates a stretchy fabric, perfect for cuffs, collars, and edges of garments.
It alternates between slipped stitches and knitted stitches, resulting in a ribbed texture with raised columns of stitches.
Plus, you will see how to knit a beautiful knot bag, and there is a video tutorial to help you along.
Cable Shrug Knitting Pattern (Outlander Inspired)
In this post, you will see a beautiful shrug free knitting pattern made with the honeycomb stitch.
The honeycomb stitch is a textured knitting pattern that creates a dense and cozy fabric resembling the intricate pattern of honeycomb cells.
It's achieved through a combination of knit and purl stitches, along with slipped stitches worked over multiple rows.
Garter Slip Stitch by Knitting Naturally
In this post, you will see how to knit the garter slip stitch free pattern.
The garter slip stitch pattern is a simple yet versatile knitting technique that combines the texture of garter stitch with the visual interest of slipped stitches.
In this pattern, rows of slipped stitches are interspersed with rows of garter stitch, creating a fabric with raised ridges and a subtle striped effect.
Mosaic Knitting by Nimble Needles
Mosaic knitting is a colorwork technique that creates intricate geometric patterns using slipped stitches and simple color changes.
Unlike traditional stranded colorwork, where both yarn colors are carried across each row, mosaic knitting only works with one color per row, making it more accessible for beginners.
In this post, you will see a photo tutorial and tips and tricks for mosaic patterns.
Three Stitch Slipped Cable Stitch by New Stitch A Day
In this post, you will see how to knit the three stitch slipped cable stitch.
The three stitch slipped cable stitch is a knitting technique that creates a visually striking cable pattern with a twisted, woven appearance.
This process results in a cable twist crossing over three stitches.
Plus, a video tutorial to help you along.
Fancy Slip Stitch Rib Pattern by Aabhar Creations
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the fancy slip stitch rib pattern.
It is an elegant and versatile knitting technique that combines the simplicity of ribbing with the visual interest of slipped stitches.
This pattern creates a textured fabric with columns of raised stitches that resemble delicate cables or twisted ropes.
Quilted Lattice by Knitting Stitches
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the quilted lattice.
This stitch pattern is a visually captivating knitting technique that mimics the intricate design of a lattice quilt.
This pattern creates a fabric with a textured lattice motif that stands out against a background of reverse stockinette stitch.
To achieve the quilted lattice effect, the pattern typically involves a combination of slipped stitches, yarn overs, and decreases.
The slipped stitches create elongated columns that intersect and crisscross to form the lattice pattern, while the yarn overs add additional texture and dimension.
Slip Stitch Diamond by La Visch Designs
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the slip stitch diamond pattern.
This stitch pattern is a captivating knitting technique that forms a series of interlocking diamond shapes across the fabric.
This pattern creates a visually appealing texture with a subtle geometric motif.
To knit the slip stitch diamond pattern, stitches are slipped to create elongated columns, while decreases and yarn overs are strategically placed to form the diamond shapes.
The Tweed Stitch by New Stitch A Day
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the tweed stitch.
The tweed stitch is a charming knitting pattern that mimics the rustic texture of traditional tweed fabric.
This stitch creates a dense and textured fabric with flecks of color dispersed throughout, reminiscent of the speckled appearance of tweed yarn.
To achieve the tweed stitch, alternating knit and purl stitches are worked in a simple repeat, with occasional slipped stitches added to create the characteristic flecks of color.
The slipped stitches are typically worked with a contrasting yarn, adding visual interest and depth to the fabric.
Basketweave by Easy To Knit
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the basketweave stitch.
The basketweave stitch, enhanced with slip stitches, adds another dimension to the classic woven texture.
By incorporating slipped stitches into the pattern, elongated stitches are created, mimicking the appearance of woven strands within the fabric.
This technique involves alternating between sections of slipped stitches and knit or purl stitches, forming a visually appealing pattern that resembles the crisscrossing strands of a woven basket.
The Little Tent Slip Stitch Pattern by Learn Knitting Online
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the little tent slip stitch pattern.
The little tent slip stitch pattern is a delightful knitting technique that creates a textured fabric resembling a field of tiny tents or pyramids.
This stitch pattern is achieved by alternating between slipped stitches and knit or purl stitches, creating small raised sections that resemble miniature peaks.
Slipped Hourglass Stitch Pattern by Aabhar Creations
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the slipped hourglass stitch pattern.
This pattern is an eye-catching knitting technique that creates a fabric with a striking hourglass motif.
This stitch pattern involves slipping stitches over multiple rows to create elongated columns that resemble the narrow waist of an hourglass.
These slipped stitches are then worked in combination with knit and purl stitches to form the hourglass shape.
The result is a textured fabric with a subtle yet visually appealing design that adds depth and interest to any project.
Slip Stitch Crosses by Easy To Knit
In this blog post, you will see the slip stitch cross pattern.
This is an intriguing knitting technique that creates a fabric with visually appealing, intertwined motifs resembling interlocking cables.
In this pattern, stitches are slipped without being worked, then crossed over each other to form the intricate crisscrossing designs.
These slipped stitches, combined with strategic knitting and purling, create the illusion of cables twisting and crossing over each other without the need for a cable needle.
Shadow Check - Slip Sitch Pattern by Learn Knitting Online
In this blog post, you will see the shadow check slip sitch pattern.
The shadow check slip stitch pattern is a captivating knitting technique that creates a fabric with a subtle yet striking checkered motif.
This pattern involves alternating between slipped stitches and knit stitches, creating elongated columns that give the appearance of shadows cast across the fabric.
By strategically placing these slipped stitches, a checkered pattern emerges, with squares appearing to recede and advance, casting shadows and adding depth to the fabric.
Slip Knit Yarn Over Pass Stitch by New Stitch A Day
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the slip knit yarn over pass stitch stitch (SKYP).
The slip-knit yarn over, pass stitch is an elegant and versatile knitting technique that creates a delicate openwork pattern with a subtle textured effect.
In this stitch pattern, stitches are slipped, knit, yarn overs are added, and then passed over to create elongated loops that form a lacy appearance.
By combining these simple elements, a fabric with a beautiful drape and airy feel is produced, making it perfect for lightweight garments, scarves, and shawls.
Diagonal Slip Stitch by Purl Soho
In this blog post, you will see how to knit the diagonal slip stitch.
This pattern creates diagonal lines or chevrons across the fabric by slipping stitches in a diagonal pattern.
The slipped stitches are worked over multiple rows to create the appearance of angled lines.
What Is The Slip Stitch At The Start And End Of A Row?
The slip stitch at the start and end of the row is a technique used to create a neat and stable edge in your knitting.
It involves slipping (moving) a stitch from one needle to the other without actually working it, which results in a smooth and non-curling edge.
Here’s how to do it:
Slip Stitch at the Start of a Row:
- At the beginning of the row, with the yarn at the back of the work, insert your right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle as if you were going to purl it (from right to left).
- Slip the stitch from the left needle to the right needle without knitting or purling it.
- Proceed with the rest of the row, following your pattern instructions.
Slip Stitch at the End of a Row:
- When you reach the end of the row, instead of working the last stitch, simply slip it.
- With the yarn at the back of the work, insert your right-hand needle into the last stitch on the left-hand needle as if to purl (from right to left).
- Slip the stitch from the left needle to the right needle without knitting or purling it.
- Turn your work (if you’re working flat) or continue to the next round (if you’re working in the round) and follow your pattern’s instructions.
How Do You Slip A Stitch Back?
To slip a stitch back in knitting, you must return a slipped stitch from your right-hand needle to your left-hand needle without working it.
This is often done when you’ve realized that you need to reposition the stitch for a particular stitch pattern or if you’ve slipped the stitch by mistake.
Here’s how to slip a stitch back:
- Hold your knitting with the right side facing you and your right-hand needle in your right hand.
- Insert the tip of your left-hand needle from left to right into the slipped stitch on the right-hand needle.
- Gently slide the slipped stitch back onto your left-hand needle.
How Do You Slip A First Stitch With Yarn In Front?
Slipping the first stitch with the yarn in front is a common technique used to create a neat and decorative edge in your knitting.
Here’s how to slip the first stitch with the yarn in front:
- Start the Row: Begin your knitting row with the yarn at the front of your work, between the needles, instead of in the usual position at the back.
- Slip the First Stitch: Insert your right-hand needle (rh needle) into the first stitch on the left-hand needle (lh needle) as if to purl, from right to left. Ensure the strand of yarn is at the front (between the needles) as you do this.
- Slip the Stitch: Without wrapping the yarn around the needle or working the stitch, slide the first stitch from the left needle to the right needle.
- Complete the Row: After slipping the first stitch, continue with the rest of your knit row, following the pattern instructions. Knit, purl, or work the subsequent stitches as needed.
Slipping the first stitch with the yarn in front creates a smooth edge on the right side (rs) of your work while adding a decorative touch.
This technique is commonly used in various stitch patterns and projects to achieve specific visual effects.
Be sure to follow your pattern’s guidance on when to use this technique.
How Do You Knit A Slip Stitch In The Round?
Knitting a slip stitch in the round is a straightforward process.
In circular knitting, you don’t have to turn your work as you do in flat knitting, so you can work slip stitches as follows:
- Begin the Round: Start knitting your round as usual, following your pattern instructions. Ensure your working yarn is in the correct position for the slip stitch you intend to work (in front for a slip stitch purlwise or in back for a slip stitch knitwise).
- Slip the Stitch: When you reach the stitch you want to slip, insert your right-hand needle into the stitch as your pattern instructs. For a slip purlwise, insert the needle from right to left as if you were going to purl. For a slip knitwise, insert the needle from left to right as if you were going to knit.
- Slip the Stitch: Without wrapping the yarn or working the stitch, slide the stitch from the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle.
- Continue the Round: After slipping the stitch, continue knitting the rest of the round, following the pattern instructions.
How To Do A Slip Stitch Edge In Knitting?
Creating a slipped-stitch edge in knitting is a simple technique that results in a neat and even edge along your work.
To achieve a slip-stitch edge, you can follow these steps:
- Start the Row: At the beginning of each row, do a slip stitch purlwise. This means that you insert your right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle as if you were going to purl it. Slip the stitch from the left needle to the right needle without working it. Make sure your yarn is in the back of the work (i.e., behind the right-hand needle) when you do this.
- Continue the Row: After slipping the first stitch, follow your pattern instructions for the rest of the row. This may involve knitting or purling, depending on the specific row and pattern.
- Repeat: Continue slipping the first stitch purlwise at the beginning of each row throughout your project to maintain the slip stitch edge.
The slip stitch edge creates a clean and unobtrusive border, perfect for preventing your work from curling, providing a smooth edge for seaming, or simply adding a polished finish to your project with minimal effort.
What Do We Use Slip Stitches For?
It’s a useful technique for a wide range of knitting projects, from scarves and shawls to blankets and garments.
In knitting, slip stitches serve several purposes and can be used for various techniques and effects.
Here are some common uses of slip stitches in knitting:
- Shaping: Slip stitches can be used to shape your knitting. For example, slip-slip-knit (SSK) and knit-two-together (K2tog) are commonly used decreases in knitting to shape the work, and they involve slipping stitches.
- Edge stitches: Slip stitches are often used as edge stitches to create a finished and tidy edge on your knitting. You can slip the first or last stitch of every row to create a smoother edge.
- Selvedge stitches: When knitting pieces that will be seamed together, slip stitches can be used as selvedge stitches. These make seaming easier and provide a cleaner finish.
- Colorwork: In stranded colorwork (Fair Isle knitting), slip stitches can be used to carry yarn across the back of the work without actually knitting with it. This is known as “slip-stitch colorwork” and helps create patterns and color changes.
- Texture and pattern: Slip stitches can be used to create texture and pattern in your knitting. Slip-stitch patterns involve slipping stitches to create various designs, including mosaic patterns and slip-stitch ribbing.
- Cable knitting: In some cable knitting patterns, you may need to slip a few stitches onto a cable needle or another stitch holder to manipulate the order of the stitches and create a cable twist.
- Joining pieces: Slip stitches can be used to join pieces together, such as when seaming the shoulder seams of a garment or attaching an applied i-cord edging to a project.
- Buttonholes: Some buttonhole techniques involve slipping stitches to create openings for buttons. These slipped stitches help prevent the buttonhole from stretching out of shape.
- Short rows: In short-row knitting, you may need to slip stitches to create wraps or turns, which shape the fabric by adding or reducing the length of specific sections.
How Many Different Slip Stitches Are There?
There are a few variations of the slip stitch that serve different purposes and are used in various techniques.
The two most common variations of the slip stitch are:
- Slip 1 (wyif): This means to slip one stitch purlwise with the yarn in front. It’s often used for creating a decorative edge or selvedge on the right side of the work. Slipping the stitch with the yarn in front creates a smooth, unworked edge stitch.
- Slip 1 (wyib): This means to slip one stitch purlwise with the yarn in the back. It’s commonly used in colorwork (e.g., Fair Isle knitting) to carry the non-working yarn across the back of the work while slipping a stitch without working it. This technique prevents long yarn floats from showing on the right side of the fabric.
Additionally, variations of slip stitches are used in specific patterns and techniques
- Slip Slip Knit (ssk): It is a common decrease technique in knitting. It involves slipping two stitches one at a time as if to knit, then inserting the left needle into the front of these two slipped stitches and knitting them together. It’s used for shaping and creating a left-leaning decrease.
- Slip Knit Pass (skp): It is another type of decrease. It involves slipping one stitch, knitting one stitch, and then passing the slipped stitch over the knit stitch. It creates a left-leaning decrease similar to SSK.
- Slip Stitch Edge Patterns: Some knitting patterns incorporate slipped stitches as a decorative element in the knit fabric. For example, you might slip stitches in a certain pattern or sequence to create textured or mosaic-like designs on your fabric.
- Slip Stitch Colorwork: In colorwork knitting, slip stitches can be used to create color patterns. By slipping stitches in a particular color, you can create color changes and intricate designs without having to carry both yarns across the entire row. This is often referred to as slip-stitch colorwork or mosaic knitting.
- Brioche Stitch: Brioche knitting involves a slip stitch technique where you slip a stitch with yarnovers to create a thick, reversible fabric with a unique texture. Brioche knitting can be done in various variations, including single-color and two-color brioche.
- Slip Stitch Cables: In some cable patterns, you might slip stitches onto a cable needle or another holder, manipulate the order of the stitches, and create cable twists.
- Slip Stitch Selvedge: Some patterns use a slip stitch selvedge at the edges for a neat and finished look. The slipped edge stitches can make seaming and finishing your project easier.
- Slip 1 Knit 1 Pass Slipped Stitch Over (skp): This decrease involves slipping one stitch knitwise, knitting the next stitch, and then passing the slipped stitch over the knit stitch. It’s a right-leaning decrease similar to K2tog.
- Slip 1, Knit 2 Together, Pass Slipped Stitch Over (sk2p): This is a double decrease technique that creates a centered double decrease. It involves slipping one stitch, knitting two stitches together, and passing the slipped stitch over the knit stitches.
Knitting Lessons
If you are a new maker and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).
There, you will find tutorial posts for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.
Including how to cast on, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, a list of knitting abbreviations, and more.
And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.
Happy Knitting!
