Twisted-Stitch Technique Clinic

Traveling stitches are featured in many textured patterns. The difference with twisted-stitch knitting is that all of the knit stitches are worked into the back of the loop, which twists the stitches, tightens them, and then raises them from the surface to produce beautifully succinct results. Every time I say “knit” when discussing twisted-stitch knitting, it is understood that I mean “knit into the back of the stitch.” Using a wool yarn that is firmly spun and plied is recommended.

To augment my “Twisted-Stitch Knitting” article and cowl design that appear in the premier issue of Farm & Fiber Knits, I offer this clinic describing several methods to work different traveling stitch situations.

Symbols and pictures

Once you are familiar with the chart symbols, you can follow both the charts and photographs to see the paths that the traveling stitches take. You will meet twisted stitches crossing over each other to the left or right, or twisted stitches crossing over purl stitches to the left or right, as well as twisted-stitch cables of varying widths. For more information about twisted-stitch charts, see “On Charts & Twisted-Stitch Knitting.”

The Twisted-Stitch Cowl by Meg Swansen in the premier issue of Farm & Fiber Knits showcases the textural beauty of twisted traveling stitches. Photo by Gale Zucker

A Useful Swatch

There are four basic methods to achieve a twisted stitch pair, or cross one stitch over another by changing their order on the needles. I found it worth the time to cast on a circular practice swatch and experiment to determine a favorite method. Generally speaking, I am a time-and-motion knitter, and I invariably choose the fastest path. However, in this instance, I seek the method that causes the least stitch distortion, even though it might take a bit more time.

Weigh your various results against the ease of execution in order to make your choice.

If you do not want to test all of the different methods, C or D are my faves for the least amount of stitch distortion.

Once you have chosen a technique, try your new skill on a small project such as one of the cowls in Farm & Fiber Knits, or a hat such as my Twisted-Stitch Cap, which includes shaping in the twisted-stitch motifs.

Four Methods to Work a Right Twist

Right Twist, Knit over Purl

A. Leave the 2 stitches on the left needle and work them out of order as follows: go between the stitches and knit into the back of the 2nd (knit) stitch. Bring wool to the front and purl the 1st stitch. Slip them both off the left needle.

B. Take the 2 stitches off the left needle and pick them up again in reverse order (with the knit stitch in front) and work.