What Are Stitch Markers? (Must Have Knitting Tools)

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In this blog post, you will see answers to the question – what are stitch markers?

Stitch markers are small but essential tools for knitting, designed to help you keep track of important points in your projects. 

Whether you’re working on complex patterns or just want to stay organized, stitch markers make your knitting process more efficient and enjoyable. 

Below, we’ll explore the basics of stitch markers and why they’re a must-have for any knitter’s toolkit.

what are stitch markers

What Is A Stitch Marker?

A stitch marker is a small, often colorful tool used by knitters and crocheters to mark specific points in their work.

These markers can be used to indicate the beginning of a round, mark pattern repeats, or highlight where certain stitches or decreases need to occur. 

Do stitch markers come in many sizes?

Stitch markers come in various sizes to fit different yarn weights and project needs. 

They range in diameter, often measured in millimeters (mm), with smaller markers suitable for lightweight or fine yarns and larger ones designed for bulky yarns or thicker stitches. 

This variety ensures that you can choose the right size for your specific knitting or crochet project, whether you’re working with thin lace yarns or thick, chunky yarns, helping to keep your work precise and organized. 

Also, you need to make sure that the stitch markers fit your needles or hooks, so having a variety of sizes comes in handy. 

Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}

Stitch markers for knitting or crochet

Stitch marker types

Stitch markers come in various forms, including closed rings that slide onto your needle or locking markers that can be clipped directly onto the yarn.  

They help maintain accuracy in complex patterns, making it easier to track your progress and ensure that your work stays on course, especially in intricate designs.

Additionally, there are many types of stitch markers. 

  • Closed Ring Stitch Markers: Simple, solid rings that slide onto your needle. It is ideal for marking positions in your work but must be removed when reaching them.
  • Split Ring Markers: These open and close like a safety pin, allowing them to be attached to specific stitches without removing your knitting from the needle.
  • Locking Stitch Markers: A locking stitch marker is similar to a split ring but with a locking mechanism. They are versatile and secure, perfect for marking stitches in place.
  • Clip-On Markers: Clipped directly onto stitches, great for marking rows, increases, or decreases without sliding on the needle.
  • Row Counter Markers: These combine stitch markers with a row counters, helping track your rows while marking specific stitches

Also, stitch markers come in different designs. 

You can find very simple ones, or venture into colorful.

There is a variety of colors, from black and white to pink, green, teal, and blue. 

Additionally, you can find stitch markers with little trinkets like little yarn balls, sheep, and needles, or even knitting unrelated trinkets like bees or even cookies that will definitely put a smile on your face.

You can purchase single stitch marker individually or grab a set.   

stitch markers 4

Do you really need a stitch marker?   

While stitch markers aren’t strictly necessary, they can be incredibly helpful, especially in complex knitting projects. 

Stitch markers act as visual reminders, helping you track key points in your pattern.

This can save time and reduce errors, particularly in intricate designs or when working with large projects. 

For simpler projects, you might not need them as much, but for any pattern requiring precision, stitch markers can make your knitting process smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the rhythm of your work without constantly counting stitches.

How Do You Use Stitch Markers In Knitting Projects? 

In knitting projects, stitch markers are used to mark specific points in your work, such as the beginning of a round in circular knitting, the location of pattern repeats, or areas where increases or decreases occur. 

To use a stitch marker, simply place it on your needle between stitches where you need to keep track of something. 

As you continue knitting, you’ll move the marker from one needle to the other, keeping it in place to maintain accuracy and organization throughout your project.  

In patterns, you will often see the abbreviation PM (place marker), which means that it’s time to place your marker on your needle. 

You might also see the abbreviation SM (slip marker) which means that you need to move the stitch marker from the left needle to the right. 

Example

For example, in the easy mittens pattern – Easy Mittens Knitting Pattern (Knit In The Round) 

1. K9, pm, M1, K1, M1, pm, K10 (2 sts increased = 22 sts).

2. Knit to the end of the round (slipping markers).

3. K9, SM, M1, K3, M1, SM, K10 (2 sts increased = 24 sts)

Learn everything about knitting abbreviations – Knitting Abbreviations And Terms (US and UK)

Knit mittens

How Do You Use Stitch Markers In Crochet Projects?

Stitch markers are essential tools in crochet projects for keeping track of important points in your work. 

They can be used to mark the beginning or end of a round, especially in circular patterns, to indicate pattern repeats, or to keep track of increases, decreases, or specific stitch counts. 

By placing a stitch marker at critical points, you can ensure accuracy and avoid losing your place, making the process smoother and more enjoyable. 

What Can I Use Instead Of A Stitch Marker?    

If you don’t have a stitch marker on hand, there are several everyday items you can use as a substitute:

  1. Scrap Yarn: Cut a small piece of contrasting-colored yarn and tie it loosely around the needle or through a stitch. This is a simple and effective alternative.
  2. Safety Pins: Small safety pins can be clipped onto stitches or slipped onto your needle to mark important points in your knitting.
  3. Paper Clips: Unfolded or as-is, paper clips can be slid onto your needle or attached to the yarn to serve as a stitch marker.
  4. Earrings: Small hoop earrings or stud earrings can work as makeshift stitch markers, especially if you have a pair handy.
  5. Rubber Bands: Tiny rubber bands, like those used in braces, can be looped around your needle to mark a stitch or position.
  6. Bobby Pins: These can be clipped onto the yarn or used to mark a spot on your needle.

Each of these alternatives can effectively serve the purpose of a stitch marker, helping you keep track of your knitting without needing a specialized tool.  

Knitting Lessons

If you are new to the craft and need help with the knitting basics, check out more free how-to resources here: Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.

This includes how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, how to knit the purl stitches, and how to knit the rib stitch pattern.

Also included is a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), a knitting needle size guide, and more.

And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

For helpful tips and tricks and to connect with more makers, check out the Handylittleme Facebook group. 

You can also find us on social media, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, and TikTok.  

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