And now a 2nd question: can you name two stitch patterns using only knit stitches? This time there would be a few options to choose from, but here are two: if you were working in the round, you would probably be working in Stocking Stitch (or as they call it over here, Stockinette Stitch).
However, if you were working back-and-forth on straight needles, then that would most likely be Garter Stitch. Every Row: Knit to end. Simple, easy, yet so versatile.
This is a variation of Garter Stitch called Wide Garter Columns from our book, Reversible Knitting Stitches, and it gives a wonderful blending of the two colours used in the pattern.
I love that name! It stems from an initial impression of some left-over yarns as they looked so unpromising when all mixed together in their basket. However, Garter Stitch came to the rescue and blended them perfectly in the finished blanket!
One result of this reversibility is that Garter Stitch lies flat. I have written about this here and here, but to recap: knitwear has a tendency to curl when one side has more purl "bumps" than the other. The purl stitches push outwards and the result is a curl in the finished item. Sometimes this is desirable, such as when you want to make an easy roll-necked sweater. However, this is not usually a good feature.
Another quality of Garter Stitch is that it tends to push out widthwise so can hold other designs open. In the Quilted Hot Pads, this is important so that the insulating ribs of the stitch are held securely in place.
In other patterns, small sections of Garter Stitch can be used to give warmth and texture to a design. I will come back to that next time and see how panels of Garter Stitch can be used in a baby blanket.
If you would also like to read more about our Reversible Knitting Stitches book, then please click here.
Until next time - Happy Knitting!
Moira
Last Blogpost: A return to winter and a new scarf Next Up: Of tree branches and baby blankets Our book: Reversible Knitting Stitches My Website: www.wyndlestrawdesigns.com |
Garter Stitch, reversible stitch, reversible knitting, reversible blanket, Anna Ravenscroft, Anna Alway,