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When shaping a sloped shoulder, bind off the specified number of stitches for the first two rows. On all subsequent bind-off rows, slip the first stitch instead of working it to eliminate the dreaded "stair steps"...
Lace knitters often use a "lifeline". This means to insert a length of yarn at a specific row of the pattern repeat. In case you need to rip back to correct an error, you will have a "safe" place in the pattern and will know where to begin. Bonnie Welch suggests using dental floss instead of yarn, which works for all weights of yarn (source Knitnet.com)...
Another re"mark"able tip from Deesha Martin (source Knitnet.com): When working lace, Deesha divides her chart into sections of 10 stitches each, using colored stitch markers to correspond to the 10-stitch sections. Using crayons or colored pencils, she matches each section of the chart to the colored stitch markers on her knitting. If she is interrupted, she looks at the stitch marker and matches it to the color on the chart...
When a pattern calls for multiple stitch markers when working in the round, Joyce Millslagle recommends always using a green-colored marker at the beginning of the round (green for "go"). This eliminates any confusion between the starting point and any increase or decrease points. Thanks for sharing this tip, Joyce!
December 2007 Tips & Ideas
--- This sock knitting tip from Cheryl Austin appeared on Knitnet.com : When knitting socks with a lace pattern, a traditional yarnover can result in a bigger hole than desired, particularly for a knitter who tends to knit loosely. Try omitting the yarn, placing a marker instead. When coming to the marker on the next row, lift the working yarn between the stitches and knit it. This is similar to working a "make 1", but do not work into the back loop or you will make an invisible increase. Simply working into the space will result in a hole with a pleasing appearance...
--- Creative Director Pam Allen @classiceliteyarns.com comes a great idea for picking up cardigan bands: "Before I invest the time to pick up an entire edge, I like to establish a stitches-to-row formula for picking up along a vertical edge. I usually begin with the recommended rate (3 sts to 4 rows) along a 4" length of edge. Then I knit the trim along this picked-up edge. If it still measures 4" and looks smooth and tidy -- no waves or puckers -- I'm golden. I rip out and pick up the entire edge wth confidence. If not, I have to experiment. If 3 sts to 4 rows stretches the edge, I try 2 sts every 4 rows; if 3 sts to 4 rows puckers, I try 4 to 4. Once I find the best formula, I know that I'll have a successful band". Thanks, Pam!
--- Stash buster: trim your Christmas packages and tags with yarn instead of ribbons, making tassels and pompoms instead of bows. This is particularly good for packages which are to be mailed as these do not crush as readily as ribbon. Add some metallic yarn for a special touch of glitter...
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