10 easy edge stitch knitting techniques - the right selvage for every project (2023)

How to Knit an Edge Stitch: 10 Selvedge Techniques Perfect for Different Projects and Use Cases.

Do your edges look crooked? Or does your knitting pattern require you to add "edge stitches" and you have no idea what that means? Well don't worry! This tutorial is all about that and I'm going to show you a total of 10 different edge knitting techniques.

Why so many? Because not all knitting patterns behave the same way.Some are more elastic than others.🇧🇷 Also, there are many different use cases, and of course, different people might find different edge stitches prettier than others. I would like to give you the choice.

Let's take a look, eh?

Bribe:Be sure to read my details athow to weave edges perfectlyif you are struggling with your stress. And here is a post with10 knitting tipsthat will instantly make your knitting look better.

What is an Edge Point?

The edge stitch, often called selvedge or selvedge (self-finished embroidery), refers to the points on the left and right sides of a flat mesh design. A selvedge can be one or more stitches wide. These points are usuallyadded a quilted stitch pattern to the edge to create a neater edge for easier sewing or stitch picking, or forprevent your fabric from crimping.

The term originally comes from knitting and sewing and refers to special edges that don't unravel. Many knitting patterns don't specify which edge stitch you should choose. It often reads something like "cast on 20 stitches + selvedge". It is up to the weaver to decide. However, it is important to note that these areextra points you need to assemble.

10 best selvedges

A selvedge can be that little detail that makes your finished projects look handcrafted. Not all 10 embroidery stitches that I present to you in this post are perfect for every project. In addition to photos and knitting instructions,so you will find additional information about suitabilitybelow each entry.

Also, please refer to myglossary of knitting termsin case you come across an abbreviation that you are not familiar with. and here it ishow to read knitting patternsin case you need to update.

Ourela current point #1

This is by far the easiest and most versatile edge stitch. You will find it in my small variations and under different names. It is sometimes called a "chain edge" or "slip stitch edge" and sometimes withregional variationssuch as German slip stitch selvedge, French or English slip stitch selvedge.

Instead of getting confused with the different names and ways of weaving it, you should try to understand the basic principle.: Adds an extra stitch to each side of your design. And then you slip that stitch into every second row.

This is the most common way to weave:

• Right side (RS):Slip the first stitch as if you were going to knit with the yarn in the back (sl1kwyib), … and knit the last stitch
• Wrong side (WS):First purl stitch in very low yarn at the front (sl1pwyif), … and last purl stitch

However, from oneshoot the shoreswill appear exactly like a knit stitch on the other side, you can knit it several different ways to get exactly the same result:

• RS:Sl1kwyib and knit the last stitch.
• NO:Sl1kwyib and knit the last stitch.

Or you can weave:

• RS:K1….sl1kwyib
• NO:P1….sl1pwyif

Where is the difference?Theoretically speaking, there is no significant difference. Buteach weaver fights with different points🇧🇷 For example, if you're having trouble keeping the last stitch clean, the last option might be the best one, as you only have to slide it. But if it's the first point you're having trouble with, choose the first option. Or knit a few swatches to see which version produces the best results for you and your yarn/knitting style.

Now this border will look beautiful onstocking knit🇧🇷 However, there is one thing you should know. The final appearance of this edge point is defined by the adjacent point. As soon as,if you want to knit an edge in chain stitch togarter stitch, you would have to change the repetition to:

• Each row:Sl1pwyif, knit to end

What is it for:Create a nice chain on both sides. It might be a little more difficult to knit consistently, but it's pretty easy to remember. It is not intended for sewing, does not prevent creasing, and has only limited use for picking up stitches.

Chain Stitch Edge – Matching Edges:

However, there is a geek technique I must share. Instructions for pattern chain stitch selvedge will createmirror edge stitches(as, for example, inSSKyk2 train🇧🇷 If you want edge stitches that look identical on both sides, you should knit them like this, or any permutation of them.

• RS:Sl1pwyib….k1
• NO:Sl1wyif as if toptbl….income

If you scroll back a bit, you'll see how the selvedge of the top standard chain stitch creates edges where the left leg is longer.the left side and the right leg is longer than the right side🇧🇷 As a result, both edges will behave the same way. If you want them to look identical, the last repeat might be better.

#2 Twisted slip stitch selvedge

A simple twist (excuse the pun) on the classic chain stitch edge is the slip stitch twist edge. On here,cross stitch legs🇧🇷 A lot ofshawl patterns seem to prefer this edge stitch.

Crossing the right leg over the longer left leg:

• Each row:Sl1kwyif and knit the last stitch

Crossing the left leg over the longer right leg:

• Each row:Sl1wyib as if going to p1tbl and knit the last stitch.

What is it for:Ornamental edge that may look a little firmer. Not as suitable for picking up stitches and less than ideal for sewing. However, I often find that the two edges look a bit jagged.

#3 Jewelery in garter stitch (also edged with knots or beads)

this is likelythe most versatile hoop ever🇧🇷 It's super easy to remember, works for almost any project, and even helps a bit against stocking stitch curl. For the right kind of project, garter stitch borders can be very decorative.

• each row:Knit the first and last stitch of each round

What is it for:Decorative, slightly firm edge. It can be a smart choice for sewing if you want a wrong edge (like when joining ribs or half a brioche) or if you need a flat seam (See how to sew garter stitchinvisible).

For an even tighter edge, you can also knit like this:

• Each row: KTBL, …, ktbl

#4 Double or triple rib in garter stitch

This is himthe easiest selvedge option if you want to keep your stocking stitch from curling🇧🇷 It adds a beautiful decorative border that lies perfectly flat.

• Each row:Knit the first two (or three) and last two (or three) stitches

Depending on the size of your project you may want to weave the first and last 3, 4 or even 5 of your project for a more balanced look.

What is it for:Purely decorative edge with a lot of relief; not particularly suitable for sewing (invisible) or stitch lifting.

#5 double twist selvedge

if you are lookinga firm edge that creates a stitch for every two rowsThen look no further. The double twist selvedge is probably your best option in these cases.

• Each line: Sl1kwib, ..., ktbl

What is it for:Super tight edge. Very difficult to accumulate points. It can be very difficult to weave evenly on both sides.

#6 Orela double moss

the classicseed pointit's a really nice knitting pattern thatyou can add a lot of structure to your borders🇧🇷 It will also help with not tangling in stockinette stitch and personally I think it's a little nicer than the garter stitch option above, but behaves the same in many ways.

• Each row:K1, p1,…. p1, k1

Clear,you can multiply the repetition as many times as you want🇧🇷 You can also do k1, p1, k1, p1…p1, k1, p1, k1 (and so on) for a much wider border. In fact, I think this is where this advantage really shines through, especially when you're knitting a blanket and similar projects.

What is it for:Purely decorative border for larger projects (like throws, etc.). Not suitable for sewing or picking up stitches.

#7 selvedge double stockinette stitch

One ofmy personal favorite stitchesuse odouble sock knitPattern. It might be a little more difficult to weave, but it has a lot of interesting and clever use cases. Also, it creates such a beautiful rounded edge.

• RS:K1, Sl1pwif, k1, …, k1, Sl1pwif, k1
• NO:Sl1pwif, k1, sl1wif, …, Sl1pwif, k1, sl1pwif

Of course you can also knit the border as wide as you like. You have to be careful though this double stockinette stitch has a slightly different stitchindicator🇧🇷 So I wouldn't take too long.

What is it for:Highly decorative trim that can be used to prevent creases or even add laces (as it creates a pocket); also perfect for smooth edges onbrioche stitches🇧🇷 Not suitable for sewing or picking up stitches.

#8 I-shaped border

If you've ever knitted a shawl, you'll know how popular it is.i-stringsthey are. The basic weaving technique can also be transferred to edging. You'll end up with a super rounded edge that has a good grip.

• RS:Sl1pwyib, sl1pwyif, k1, …, k1, sl1pwyif, p1
• NO:Sl1pwyib, k1, sl1wyif, …, sl1pwyif, k1, p1

What is it for:Highly decorative border that will reflect the appearance of yourunion i cordand fused edges. Not really suitable for sewing or picking up stitches. It will curl up a bit.

#9 seam edge

This should be your preferred method when you want to join two parts together usingmattress point🇧🇷 When you do it right, you can createcompletely invisible seams.

• RS:K2, …, k2
• NO:P2, …, p2

Depending on your knitting pattern, you might consider knitting the first and last two or three stitches. This will give you asmoother transitiontoward your seam.

What is it for:Perfect base for standard vertical seams or when you need to pick up stitches. Otherwise, an unspectacular hoop that can curl.

#10 wild brioche point

This selvedge is inspired by a reader who commented on one of my last posts. I couldn't find any references for this edge, although I've heard that a version is popular in Russian knitting. I call it the brioche selvedge stitch because it's a very similar technique.

• Line 1 (settings):Sl1pwyif, you…
• Fila 2:Sl1pwyif, yo, …, p2tog
• Fila 3:Sl1pwyif, yo, …, k2tog
• Repeat rows 2+3

what is it for: It creates a very balanced edge that is quite cute. Not for sewing, but I think it could be perfect for a scarf.

How to find the perfect selvedge for your project: aspects to consider

With all these alternatives, you're probably wondering which edge stitch will be ideal for your project. While appearance is important, I really recommend you consider some additional tips:

The best edges for sewing

There is a fundamental difference between an ornamental edging and a seam edging. The first one just needs to be good and maybe springy enough that you don't mess up your gauge. But if you want to do some serious sewing,you want an edge that is firm enough to support your stitches, but not so bulky that it creates big ridges on the wrong side.

In my opinion, garter stitch edge and stocking stitch edge are your best option here. Both can be joined effortlessly with mattress stitch.

shaped edges

Not all items you knit will be rectangular (like a scarf, etc.). Sometimes you end up with slanted and curved shapes. And while some selvedges can be great for adding a little extra structure to a seam, thosecan be very tightto, say, the armpits of a sweater. Another example might be a triangle shawl, where you might need a little more stretch.

The reason?The distance between two points that are one above the other is less than a diagonal(It's simple geometry: think of it like a square: the sides are shorter than the diagonal)

Edges to pick up points

When you want to get points from an edge, you have to keep in mind thatyour thread gauge will likely be different from your stitch gauge🇧🇷 What I mean? If you count the stitches needed to cover a 5 by 5 cm piece of fabric, the numbers will not add up. So maybe it's something like 20 stitches and 25 rows (just an example).

As a result,you would have to collect three points for every 4 laps– at least if you don't want your edges to flare (or wrinkle). And that means that many times you can't use a selvedge where you end up with only 1 edge stitch for each alternating row. The only exception is thesock reinforcement, where the fabric will be narrower anyway. Here, a slip stitch selvedge can be a great option.

The best selvedge for lace shawls, etc.

When you lock fabric, you usually don't stretch it too much. But when you're knitting lace, a lot of times you want those buttonholes to open up, those picots to turn into little spikes, etc. And in those cases,edge stitches can end up tightening the shawlbecause they are not elastic enough.

There is an easy way around this. Onlyadd a loop before the edge stitch and slip on the next row, or pull the stitch a little (slipped) after knitting the second stitch(don't do it right after slipping). Normally you wouldn't do this as it would result in puckered edges. But in those cases, you'll have a little extra donation that will be pretty cool when you close things out right.

Anyway, those are 10 edge knitting techniques you should know about. Comment below if you still have any questions.