Bind Off or Cast Off Stitches to Finish Knitting

Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Once you have finished knitting a project, you will want to know how get your work off the needles. You’ll need to “bind off” or “cast off” the piece to secure your last row of stitches in place. There are several ways to end a knitted project. Here I will show you a basic bind off, commonly known as the “standard bind off.” This method can be used on a wide variety of knitted items.

A standard bind off chains together the stitches in your last row so you can remove them from your needles without your work coming undone. To finish your knitted piece, you will work the first two stitches of you last row. Then, you’ll slip the first stitch over the second, which will start removing stitches from the needles and keep them securely in place.

Here, you will learn to bind off in only knit stitches. Later, after you have learned the purl stitch, you can learn to cast of a piece that was made in a pattern of knits and purls.

Before you start, remember to loosen up:

Keep in mind that this bind off tends to be a bit tight, so you may want to loosen up your tension when knitting this last row. Many patterns will specifically tell you to “bind off loosely,” to remind you to adjust the tightness of the stitches.

Or, go up two or three needle sizes:

Instead of adjusting how tightly you knit, you can also switch needle sizes. Try moving to a needle that is two or three sizes larger than the one you have been using for the rest of the pattern. This allows you to keep the same knitting tension in your yarn as you cast off, while still loosening the bind off stitches enough to match the rest of the piece. Some patterns instruct you to switch needle sizes for the last row, to help you ensure your ends are more even.

Video Guide: How to Bind Off Knitting

Written Guide: How to Bind Off Knitting

The steps below assume you have been working in a pattern of only knit stitches (garter stitch). Find a free sample pattern to follow here; it is a face scrubby made of only knit stitches. If you have been knitting in a pattern of knits and purls, make sure to follow your pattern as you bind off.

Step 1: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 1:

Following the pattern you have been using for previous rows, knit the first two stitches of your last row.

Step 2: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 2:

Insert the left needle tip into the front loop of the first knit stitch on your right needle from front to back.

Step 3: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 3:

Lift the first stitch on the right needle up and over the second stitch on the right needle.

Step 4: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 4:

Pull the second stitch on the right needle through the first stitch on the right needle.

Step 5: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 5:

Slide the left needle out of the stitch on the right needle.

Step 6: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 6:

At this point, the first knit stitch should be anchored onto the second and only one loop should remain on your right-hand needle.

Step 7: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 7:

Knit the next stitch off your left needle and onto the right needle.

Step 8: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 8:

In the same manner as before, lift the first stitch on your right-hand needle over the second stitch, drawing the second stitch through the first, leaving only one stitch on your right-hand needle.

Step 9: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 9:

Repeat steps seven and eight until you have reached the last two stitches and freed the left-hand needle from your work.

Step 10: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 10:

Lift the first stitch on the right needle over the second, leaving only one stitch on your right-hand needle.

Step 11: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 11:

Set your work down, leaving the knitting needle in the last stitch. With very sharp scissors, clip the working yarn about eight or ten inches away from your last stitch. This will free your work from the ball of yarn.

Step 12: Learn to take knit stitches off needles with a standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Bind Off, Step 12:

Pull the yarn tail through to anchor it in; do this by enlarging the last stitch with your knitting needle until the tail slides completely through. The loop will become a straight loose end.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Free Beginner Face Scrubby knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit along with me and practice your knit stitches with my Free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern.

Simple garter stitch scarf easy beginner scarf knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you would rather try a longer pattern, my Free Beginner Scarf Pattern is made entirely of knit stitches, as well. Because it has more stitches in the pattern, it will take longer than a scrubby to finish.

Up Next

Once have learned to take your knitting off the needles, you will have a couple of loose ends to take care of. Next, you can learn to weave in and tie off the ends on your flat knitted piece.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

October 22, 2015September 5, 2023

Fix Knitting Mistakes

Learn to spot knitting mistakes then fix dropped and twisted stitches in this tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Sometimes, you will notice a stitch in your knitting that looks just a bit strange. As you begin to recognize the shapes of knits and purls, you will learn to “read” your knitting as you work. Once you know what your stitches should look like, you will start to spot mistakes. Twisted, dropped, and slipped stitches are common errors that almost every knitter makes. If you learn to identify them, you can fix knitting mistakes before you bind off your project.

The video lesson below will show you how to spot and fix twisted and dropped stitches. Then, continue reading to see more about spotting and fixing common knitting mistakes.

Video Guide: Common Knitting Mistakes, Fixing Dropped & Twisted Stitches

Written Guide: Common Knitting Mistakes, Dropped & Twisted Stitches

Fixing Knitting Mistakes with a Crochet Hook

Many common knitting mistakes are fixed by intentionally dropping a stitch off your knitting needles. This allows you to correct your mistake, then return the stitch to its place. When correcting a mistake, you will want to be sure to always put the stitch back onto the needles with the right leg in front, if you do not want a twisted stitch.

Using a crochet hook helps when fixing mistakes in knitting that a few rows back. Learn to fix mistakes with Liz @PurlsAndPixels

When you have knit several rows before you notice your mistake, dropping the column of stitches directly above your mistake will allow you reach the problem stitch and fix it. Then, you will re-loop the dropped stitches by climbing up the “ladder” of stitches, anchoring them back in place one at a time. When you reach the top, you can put the last stitch back on the needle and resume your project.

While this can be completed with just your hands, using a crochet hook makes straightening the column of stitches an easier task. Choose a crochet hook that is the same size or just a bit smaller than your knitting needles. Crochet hooks and knitting needles are both labeled with millimeter measurements, so you can easily compare sizes. Here, I am working US No. 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles and a G (4.0 mm) crochet hook.

Examining Correct Knit Stitches

Before you can spot mistakes, you need to know what a proper knit stitch and purl stitch should look like. So, let’s first look more closely at what knit stitches typically look like, without mistakes.

The “knit-side” of a stockinette stitch pattern should be flat and should be completely made up of the V-shaped stitches.

This knit has no twisted or dropped stitches. Learn more about knitting mistakes with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

If you examine a correct (untwisted) knit “V” closely, you will notice the point at the bottom of the “V” should stretch apart, like so: “ /”. Each half of the “V” is referred to as a “leg.”

An untwisted knit stitch is open, not crossed, at the tip of the "V" - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Identify Twisted Stitches

Unlike a regular knit stitch, a twisted knit stitch will have its legs crossed.

Learn to identify twisted knit stitches and fix knitting mistakes with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Fixing Twisted Stitches

Fix a Twisted Stitch, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to fix twisted stitches on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Identify Dropped Stitches

A dropped stitch is simply one that has fallen off the needles at some point in your work.

Fixing Dropped Stitches

Learn to fix dropped stitches with this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Fix a Dropped Stitch, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to fix dropped stitches on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Identify Slipped Stitches

A slipped stitch is an unworked stitch. This will cause one stitch to look much bigger than the others.

There will also be a loose loop on the purlside where you have slipped a stitch.

Fixing Slipped Stitches

Learn to fix slipped stitches with this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Fix a Slipped Stitch, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to fix slipped stitches on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

“Tink” – Knit Backward to Fix Mistakes

Learn to knit backward ("tink") to fix mistakes in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Tink, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to knit backward to fix mistakes on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Basic Washcloth and Face Scrubby knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

In this guide I was making a Simple Face Scrubby. Knit along with me. This pattern is part of my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection.

Up Next

After you have learned to fix knitting mistakes, you may want to know how to unravel a few rows to correct a problem. Or undo an entire knitting project to reuse the yarn. Either way, knitters call this “frogging,” and I will show you how in the next tutorial.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

July 3, 2015February 27, 2021

How to Knit the Purl Stitch

Learn to make the purl stitch, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Now that you understand the knit stitch, you are ready to move on to your next knitting challenge: learning to make the purl stitch.

A purl stitch is essentially a backwards knit stitch. You will hold your yarn in front of your needles to create a “U” shaped stitch, which looks like a bump. If you make a knit stitch, turn it over: the back side of a knit stitch looks exactly like the front side of a purl stitch.

If you purl every stitch in every row of a flat knitted piece, you end up with a garter stitch pattern, just as you do when knitting with only the knit stitch.

Combining knits and purls can create all sorts of fun patterns and textures.

Two important things to remember when making the purl stitch:

Hold the working yarn in front of your needles, and
Insert your right needle into each stitch from back to front.

Below are both video and written tutorials to help you learn how to make a purl.

Video Guide: How to Make the Purl Stitch

Written Guide: How to Make the Purl Stitch

Step 1: Learn to make the purl stitch, with a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Purl, Step 1:

Hold your yarn and needles as if to knit, except place the working yarn in front of your left needle.

Step 2: Learn to make the purl stitch, with a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Purl, Step 2:

Insert your right-hand needle tip into the front loop of the next stitch on your left needle from back to front.

Step 3: Learn to make the purl stitch, with a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Purl, Step 3:

With your left pointer finger, bring the working yarn down, towards you, over then behind the right needle tip. This will form a loop on the right-hand needle tip.

Purl, Step 4:

Pull the new loop of yarn on the right-hand needle through the first stitch on your left needle.

Purl, Step 5:

Slide the stitch you just worked into off the left needle, allowing the new stitch to remain on your right needle.

Purl, Step 6:

You have made your first purl stitch!

Repeat steps one through five each time a pattern asks you to purl a stitch.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

If you purl an entire piece of knitting work, you end up with a garter stitch pattern, just as you do when knitting with only the knit stitch. Because of this, one way to learn and practice the purl stitch is to make a Face Scrubby with only purls. You can follow the free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern, except replace all the knit stitches with purl stitches.

When you are ready to start a new project, you can to learn to purl with the Basic Face Scrubby or Washcloth pattern found in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection. You will combine knits and purls in to create the traditional, smooth Stockinette stitch pattern that is commonly used in knitwear.

Up Next

To help you “read” your knitting and make sure you are following patterns correctly, you can start to see the knit stitches as “V” shaped and the purl stitches as upside down “U” shapes. Learn to identify knits and purls next.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

February 12, 2015September 2, 2024

Frozen Snowflake Mittens

Frozen Snowflake Mittens: A Free Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler

Are your hands a little chilly? Keep them warm with these mittens, embroidered with a subtle frozen snowflake. Get ready to embark on a new knitting adventure! Here is my free DIY pattern to knit these Frozen Snowflake Mittens yourself. Dive into the cozy world of crafting with step-by-step instructions to create three sizes of Frozen Snowflake Mittens: Women’s size, Girls’ Size, and Toddlers’ Size. Elevate your winter style with these charming mittens fit for royalty.

Anna's Anna's Snowflake Mittens Frozen Gloves

Crafted with care and warmth, these Frozen Snowflake Mittens are made using my favorite super-soft acrylic yarn – Caron Simply Soft. The choice of this yarn is intentional; it’s not only incredibly soft but also remarkably warm. Take them outside and build a snowman! What’s more, the practicality extends to easy maintenance – just toss these mittens into the washing machine when they need a refresh.

Designed with a touch of royal elegance, these mittens are perfect for princesses of all ages. The enchanting blue hue adds a regal charm, and to cater to diverse preferences, I’ve created these mittens in women’s, children’s, and toddlers’ sizes. Whether you’re gifting a pair to a little one or treating yourself to a new accessory, these mittens are a delightful addition to any winter wardrobe.

About This Free Frozen Snowflake Mittens Pattern

This simple ribbed hat is an easy-level knitting pattern. You will need to know how to make a long-tail cast on, knit, purl, decrease, and draw yarn thru the remaining stitches. If you are not familiar with these skills, find quick, free lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide.

Anna's blue snowflake mittens in the Disney move Frozen.

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:
Double Point Needles (DPNs)

No. 13/5.00MM double pointed needles (dpn) (or four sizes larger than size needed to obtain gauge)
No. 9/5.00MM double pointed needles (dpn) (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:

One 315-Yard Skein of Caron Simply Soft Yarn, Cobalt Blue (worsted weight) (Note: You may want to purchase two skeins of this color; you will knit with two strands held together. Having two separate skeins lets you avoid winding a second ball of yarn.)
One 315-Yard Skein of Caron Simply Soft Yarn, Royal Blue (worsted weight) – This color is for the snowflake embroidery, and you will use only 1-2 yards from this skein for each pair of gloves

*Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

20 stitches x 28 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 5 (3.75 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

Make 1 = with the left needle, pick up the strand between the stitch just worked and the next stitch from front to back and knit into the back of it.

k2tog = Knit two together.

ssk = Slip, slip, knit. Slip two stitches as if to knit. Insert left needle from left to right into the fronts of the two slipped stitches and knit together.

sl1pwyif = Slip one stitch purlwise, holding yarn in front of work.

Instructions: Frozen Snowflake Mittens

Instructions: Adult Women’s Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

(Approx. 10.5 inches from top to bottom, 8 inches around hand, without thumb)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. Use stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your circular rows by placing it in the first stitch of each circular row (round). Remember: You will turn these gloves wrong-side-out (purl-side-out) when you are finished. Make two (2).
Row 1: With No. 13 DPNs, cast on 15 stitches. Divide evenly onto 3 No. 13 DPNs (5 stitches each).
Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 15 stitches.
Rows 3 thru 14: Knit 15 stitches.
Row 15: Switching to No.9 DPNs as you go, k1, make 1 repeat for one round. (30 stitches)
Rows 16 thru 21: Knit 30 stitches.
Row 22: Knit 14 stitches. Place stitch marker on the 14th knit stich. Make 1. Knit 2 stitches. Make 1. Place stitch marker on the newly made stitch. Knit 14 stitches. (32 stitches)
Row 23: Knit 32.
Row 24: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (34 stitches)
Row 25: Knit 34 stitches.
Row 26: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (36 stitches)
Row 27: Knit 36 stitches.
Row 28: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (38 stitches)
Row 29: Knit 38 stitches.
Row 30: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (40 stitches)
Row 31: Knit 40 stitches.
Row 32: Knit 14 stitches. Slip next 12 stitches, purlwise with yarn in front, onto stitch holder. Knit 14 stitches. (This will separate thumb stiches from hand stitches.)
Rows 33 thru 54: Knit 28 stitches.
Row 55: K2tog. Knit 10 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 10 stitches. SSK. (24 stitches)
Row 56: Knit 24 stitches.
Row 57: K2tog. Knit 8 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 8 stitches. SSK. (20 stitches)
Row 58: Knit 20 stitches.
Row 59: K2tog. Knit 6 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 6 stitches. SSK. (16 stitches)
Cut yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. With tapestry needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 16 stitches. Weave in end. You may wish to reinforce the “seam” created by the decreases at the fingertips; use duplicate stitch to tighten the seam as you weave in your tail. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.

Thumb

Put 12 stitches from stitch holder onto three No. 9 DPNs (4 stitches per needle).
Thumb Row 1: Knit 12 stitches in the round.
Thumb Row 2: Join round (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 12 stitches.
Thumb Rows 3 thru 10: Knit 12.
Thumb Row 11: K2tog x 6 (6 stitches).
Cut a 12 inch tail and draw tightly through remaining 6 stitches.
Use duplicate stitch to tighten any loose stitches around the “seams” as you weave in your tails. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.
Turn mittens purl-side (wrong-side) out – this is now the “right-side” of your work. Embroider adult snowflake design.

Instructions: Child Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

(Approx. 9 inches from top to bottom, 7 inches around hand without thumb)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. Use stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your circular rows by placing it in the first stitch of each circular row (round). Remember: You will turn these gloves wrong-side-out (purl-side-out) when you are finished. Make two (2).
Row 1: With No. 13 DPNs, cast on 14 stitches. Divide onto 3 No. 13 DPNs.
Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 14 stitches.
Rows 3 thru 12: Knit 14 stitches.
Row 15: Switching to No.9 DPNs as you go, k1, make 1 repeat for one round. (28 stitches)
Rows 16 thru 21: Knit 28 stitches.
Row 22: Knit 13 stitches. Place stitch marker on the 13th knit stich. Make 1. Knit 2 stitches. Make 1. Place stitch marker on the newly made stitch. Knit 13 stitches. (30 stitches)
Row 23: Knit 30.
Row 24: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (32 stitches)
Row 25: Knit 32 stitches.
Row 26: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (34 stitches)
Row 27: Knit 34 stitches.
Row 28: Knit 13 stitches. Slip next 8 stitches, purlwise with yarn in back, onto stitch holder. Knit 13 stitches. (This will separate thumb stiches from hand stitches.)
Rows 29 thru 44: Knit 26 stitches.
Row 45: K2tog. Knit 9 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 9 stitches. SSK. (22 stitches)
Row 46: Knit 22 stitches.
Row 55: K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. (18 stitches)
Row 56: Knit 18 stitches.
Row 57: K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. (14 stitches)
Row 58: Knit 16 stitches.
Row 59: K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. (10 stitches)
Cut yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. With tapestry needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 10 stitches. Weave in end. You may wish to reinforce the “seam” created by the decreases at the fingertips; use duplicate stitch to tighten the seam as you weave in your tail. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.

Thumb

Put 8 stitches from stitch holder onto two No. 9 DPNs (4 stitches per needle).
Thumb Row 1: Beginning with the first picked up stitch, knit 8 stitches in the round.
Thumb Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 8 stitches.
Thumb Rows 3 thru 11: Knit 8 stitches.
Thumb Row 12: K2tog x 4 (4 stitches).
Cut a 12 inch tail and draw tightly through remaining 4 stitches.
Use duplicate stitch to tighten any loose stitches around the “seams” as you weave in your tails. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.
Turn mittens purl-side (wrong-side) out – this is now the “right-side” of your work. Embroider children’s snowflake design.

Instructions: Toddler Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

(Approx. 6.5 inches from top to bottom, 6 in. around hand without thumb)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. Use stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your circular rows by placing it in the first stitch of each circular row (round). Remember: You will turn these gloves wrong-side-out (purl-side-out) when you are finished. Make two (2).
Row 1: With No. 13 DPNs, cast on 12 stitches. Divide onto 3 No. 13 DPNs.
Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 12 stitches.
Rows 3 thru 10: Knit 12 stitches.
Row 11: Switching to No.9 DPNs as you go, k1, make 1 repeat for one round. (24 stitches)
Rows 12 thru 16: Knit 24 stitches.
Row 17: Knit 11 stitches. Place stitch marker on the 11th knit stich. Make 1. Knit 2 stitches. Make 1. Place stitch marker on the newly made stitch. Knit 11 stitches. (26 stitches)
Row 18: Knit 26.
Row 19: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (28 stitches)
Row 20: Knit 28 stitches.
Row 21: Knit 11 stitches. Slip next 6 stitches, purlwise with yarn in back, onto stitch holder. Knit 11 stitches. (This will separate thumb stiches from hand stitches)
Rows 22 thru 34: Knit 22 stitches.
Row 35: K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. (18 stitches)
Row 36: Knit 18 stitches.
Row 37: K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. (14 stitches)
Row 56: Knit 14 stitches.
Row 57: K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. (10 stitches)
Cut yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. With tapestry needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 10 stitches. Weave in end. You may wish to reinforce the “seam” created by the decreases at the fingertips; use duplicate stitch to tighten the seam as you weave in your tail. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.

Thumb

Put 6 stitches from stitch holder onto two No. 9 DPNs (3 stitches per needle).
Thumb Row 1: Beginning with the first picked up stitch, knit 6 stitches in the round.
Thumb Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 6.
Thumb Rows 3 thru 6: Knit 6 stitches.
Thumb Row 7: K2tog x 3 (3 stitches).
Cut a 12 inch tail and draw tightly through remaining 3 stitches.
Use duplicate stitch to tighten any loose stitches around the “seams” as you weave in your tails. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.
Turn mittens purl-side (wrong-side) out – this is now the “right-side” of your work. Embroider children’s snowflake design.

Snowflake Design

The snowflake design is made by embroidering the mitten using a tapestry needle and one strand of royal blue yarn. Tip: You may want to practice sewing the snowflake on your gauge swatch before you embroider your mittens.

Using the knitting’s natural holes as a guide, embroider the following charted design onto the back of the hand of each mitten. I found it easiest to begin with the center stitches and work my way out and around the snowflake. For all sizes, the center of snowflake should be placed about 1 inch in from thumb crease and 1.5 inches above where the rows made with No. 9 needles begin.

In the diagrams below, one line equals one stitch. The stitches shown in red should be embroidered in a continuous manner, sewing into the same hole as the previous stitch. The black stitches should not connect and should have gaps between them. Use the close-up photographs as a guide, as well as the diagrams below

Print the Free Frozen Snowflake Mitten Knitting Pattern

Printable Frozen Snowflake Mitten Knitting Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Find More Knitting Patterns

If you like this, check out the other knitting patterns I’ve written. Visit my knitting patterns page to see my full collection.

Find all of the knitting patterns by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

December 10, 2014April 18, 2021

Knitting Tension

Maintaining yarn tension in your knitting is essential to keeping your stitches even. If you do not place your yarn loops on the needles evenly, your knitting work will end up irregular, saggy, or filled with holes. To prevent these knitting problems, practice wrapping each stitch around your needles with the same tightness or “tension.” Making sure all your stitches match one another will help your final knitting to look even and consistent.

Pay close attention to how your stitches wrap around the needles. Ideal knit stitches are looped with just enough tension that they fit around the needle with no gaps. On the other hand, stitches should not be pulled so tightly that the loops get stuck in place; if your stitches cannot slide down the needles easily, you will have a hard time working into them.

How tightly you knit can greatly impact your finished object. If you do not have the correct tension, you can end up with very differently sized knit pieces, even when knitting with the same yarn and needles. Loose tension will create larger stitches, while tight tension creates smaller stitches.

Below you’ll find video and written guides, which I hope will help you improve your knitting tension.

Video Guide: Knitting Tension

Written Guide: Knitting Tension

Practicing different yarn holds can help you with your knitting tension. Try holding the yarn in several ways, wrapping it around your hand or fingers until you find a comfortable option to keep your string taut.

Find a comfortable yarn hold to help you improve your knitting tension - knitting lessons from Liz @PurlsandPixles - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

With each stitch, try to ensure that you loop the yarn around the knitting needle snuggly. Take care not to knit your loops too tightly, however, or you will have trouble inserting your needle into the stitches for the next row. The key to knitting tension is to place each stitch on the needles in with the same moderate tautness: not too tight and not too loose.

Knitting tension that is too tight. — Too Tight

Knitting tension that is too loose. — Too Tight

Another way to maintain even tension is to keep a close eye on the stitches that you have just worked. If you notice a stitch on your needles that is too loose, you can adjust that stitch before you knit further. A loose stitch on your needles can be tightened by pulling the excess yarn back towards the yarn ball, one stitch at a time.

Improving Tension by Adjusting Stitches as You Go

Step 1: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 1:

Identify the loose stitch by noticing that it sticks out from the righthand needle a bit more than the other stitches.

Step 2: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 2:

Gently pull on the first stitch to the left of the loose stitch; this will tighten the loose stitch, while loosening the stitch on which you are pulling. Once you have achieved the desired tightness in the loose stitch, let go of the stitch you just pulled.

Step 3: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 3:

Pinch the next stitch to the left and gently pull it to tighten up the previous stitch. Continue gently pulling the stitches, one at a time, moving toward your left. Ensure you are tightening the previous stitches to the correct tension as you go.

Step 4: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 4:

When you reach the last stitch on your righthand needle, pull the working yarn to tighten the last stitch to the correct tension. The loose stitching should be fixed, and you can resume knitting your pattern.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you’ve been following my lessons, you now have enough information to knit all of the washcloths and face scrubbies in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection. Happy knitting!

Up Next

Learn to spot and fix simple knitting mistakes with this lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Everybody makes mistakes. In the next lesson, we will learn how to spot and fix some of the most common knitting mistakes: twisted, sipped, and dropped stitches.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

November 4, 2014July 23, 2021

How to Make the Knit Stitch

Learn to make the knit stitch, a free knitting tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Once you have cast on your first stitches, you will be ready to begin your first knit stitch row.

The abbreviations “k” or “K” are often used in patterns to instruct you to make the knit stitch.

Two important things to remember when making the knit stitch:

Hold the working yarn behind your needles, and
Insert your right needle into each stitch from front to back.

There are different styles of knitting, the most common of which are Continental and English style knitting. Both styles of knitting give you the same knitted piece at the end, but they differ in how you hold your yarn. Here, you’ll learn how to knit in the Continental style. I like Continental style knitting because it is quicker to make the knit stitch once you have practiced.

Below are both video and written tutorials to help you learn how to make the knit stitch.

Video Guide: How to Make the Knit Stitch

Written Guide: How to Make the Knit Stitch

Step 1: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 1:

After turning your work, arrange the working yarn onto your left hand in your preferred yarn hold. Hold the empty needle in your right hand.

Step 2: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 2:

Place the working yarn (coming from your yarn ball) behind your left needle.

Step 3: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 3:

Insert the tip of your right-hand needle into the front loop of the first stitch on your left needle.

Step 4: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 4:

Bring the right needle tip over the working yarn and begin to form a counterclockwise loop around it.

Step 5: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 5:

Pull the loop on your right needle tip through the stitch on your left needle.

Step 6: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 6:

Slide the stitch you have just worked into off your left needle, allowing the new stitch to remain on your right needle. You have made your first knit stitch!

Repeat steps one through six to knit an entire row off your left needle and onto the right. When the left needle is empty, you can turn your work again and start the next row.

This pattern, of using only knit stitches and turning after each row, is known as the Garter Stitch. It is used in many knitted projects.

Practice With My Free Knitting Patterns

Knit along with me and practice your knit stitches with my Free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern.

If you are looking for a bigger project, my Free Beginner Knit Scarf Pattern is also made in garter stitch (all knit stitches). It is just as simple as my face scrubby pattern; it just takes a bit longer to make.

Up Next

Learn how to make the purl stitch, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

After mastering the knit stitch, you will be ready to learn the purl stitch and start adding texture and patterns to your knitting projects.

How to end a knitting project with the standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Or, skip ahead and learn to take your stitches off the knitting needles with a standard bind off.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

November 4, 2014August 6, 2025

Beginner Knit Scarf Easy Free Knitting Pattern

A Knitting Pattern from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Simple beginner scarf, free knitting pattern from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

My Beginner Knit Scarf Free Easy Knitting Pattern is a great place to start to learn knitting. Below are three patterns. One is for an extra wide scarf – 9 inches in width. The second is for a standard size scarf – 7 inches in width. Plus, find my free mini ornament scarf knitting pattern (great for toys, decorations, or just knitting practice)!

Prefer to knit offline?

This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.

Includes all three scarf sizes
Easy to print or use on your tablet
Supports my small business 💖

Download the Beginner Knit Scarf PDF – $9.99

Knitting a Beginner Scarf

These knitting patterns are for a simple scarf in garter stitch – a stitch made up completely of the basic knit stitch. This simple scarf pattern requires knowledge of a cast-on, the knit stitch, and a bind off. Practice makes perfect, so repeating the knit stitch as you do in this pattern is a wonderful way to work on your tension, accuracy, and speed.

Whether you are an absolute beginner, or you are trying to master knitting tension, this is a great way to improve your knit stitch. Remember to try and keep all your loops on the needles evenly and tightly, but not so tightly that they don’t slide down the needles. You want to be able to insert your needle into them when you try to knit the next row, so try to find a balance between too tight and too loose.

Want to knit along with me? I’ve created a video lesson, showing you how I make the mini scarf from start to finish. Visit the How to Knit a Scarf Lesson for step-by-step guidance. 🧣

Learn to knit a simple, classic scarf. This knitting pattern is perfect for beginners. Get the free instructions from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

About this Knitting Pattern

This easy garter stitch scarf pattern is a beginner level knitting pattern and is great for those just learning the knit stitch. It is also a relaxing pattern for knitters of more advanced skill levels. It will not take much concentration to create this adorable scarf once you’ve mastered the knit stitch. 🧶

Materials

Two (2) 315-yard/6 ounce skeins of Caron Simply Soft yarn in your choice of color (pictured here in Dark Country Blue).

one standard scarf uses 304.5 yards (5.8
ounces)*
one extra-wide scarf uses 420 yards (8
ounces)*

*Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary.

36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 8/5MM circular needle or 9-inch (23 cm) long US No. 8 (5 mm) straight needles (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Measuring Tape

Tapestry needle (to weave in ends)

Gauge

18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 8 (5.0 mm) needles.

Instructions: Extra-Wide Beginner Scarf

(9 inches x 6 feet or [2.7432 cm x 1.8288 m] desired length)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit flat, turning after each row.

Row 1: Cast on 40 stitches. Turn.

Row 2: k 40. (40 stitches) Turn.

Repeat Row 2 until scarf measures 6 feet or your desired length.

Bind off loosely knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Instructions: Standard-Width Beginner Scarf

(7 inches x 6 feet [17.78 cm x 1.8288 m] or desired length)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit flat, turning after each row.

Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches. Turn.

Row 2: k 32. (32 stitches) Turn.

Repeat Row 2 until scarf measures 6 feet or your desired length.

Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Instructions: Mini Ornament Beginner Scarf

(1.5 inches x 12 inches [3.81 cm x 30 cm] or desired length)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit flat, turning after each row.

Row 1: Cast on 6 stitches. Turn.

Row 2: k 6. (6 stitches) Turn.

Repeat Row 2 until scarf measures 12 inches (30 cm) or your desired length.

Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Get the PDF version of this Beginner Scarf Knitting Pattern.

Care

If you use the materials called for in the pattern, your final product will be machine washable. To keep your scarf looking its best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate cycle in cold water. You may tumble dry on low heat or lay flat to dry.

🛁 Read more Knitwear Care Tips

Enjoy your new scarf!

This easy knit scarf pattern for beginners uses only knit stitches to make a classic garter stitch scarf. Pattern from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

Find More Knitting Patterns

If you like this, check out the other knitting patterns I’ve written. They’re all gathered on one page, which you can find here.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

October 30, 2014April 22, 2022

How to Cast On Knitting Stitches

Learn to put yarn onto knitting needles. The long tail cast on tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

When you begin to knit, you’ll need to learn to put your initial stitches on your needles. In knitting, this is called “casting on” stitches. When reading a pattern, the abbreviations CO, co, or, c/o are often used to mean cast on.

There are several methods of casting on, each of which serves a different purpose. Some cast-ons are decorative, some are stretchy, and the way you put your yarn on your needles can really change the end garment.

For beginners, it is a good idea to start with the “long tail cast on.” This cast on gives you a stretchy – but not too stretchy – end for your work. It also ends up looking clean and neat if you ensure that your put each stitch equally tightly (with even tension) on your needle. I use the long tail cast on for almost all of my basic garments, like scarves, hats, and mittens.

Below are both video and written tutorials to help you learn how to put your first loops onto your knitting needles with the long-tail cast on. Knit along with me using my Free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern.

Video Guide: How to Cast On Knit Stitches

Written Guide: How to Cast On Knit Stitches

Step 1: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 1:

Pull approximately one inch of yarn per stitch you plan to cast on out of the ball of yarn. For example, if you want to cast on 14 stitches, pull roughly 14 inches of yarn out of the ball.

Step 2: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 2:

Make a slipknot at this point in the yarn, then place it on a knitting needle held in your right hand. (Note: This slipknot will count as your first cast-on stitch.)

Step 3: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 3:

Bring your left hand under the slipknot, with the working yarn above your hand and the yarn tail below your hand. Drape the working-yarn side between your left pointer finger and left middle finger.

Step 4: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 4:

Drape the tail side of the yarn over your left thumb.

Step 5: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 5:

Keeping the yarn draped over your thumb and pointer finger, turn your left hand so you can see your palm; the working yarn should lie over your left-hand middle, ring, and pinkie fingers. Keep the slipknot from falling off your needle by gently holding it in place with your right pointer finger.

Step 6: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 6:

With your left ring and pinkie fingers, pinch the two strings that now drape over your left palm. Bring the tip of the knitting needle in front of your left thumb nail. You should now be holding the yarn properly to allow you to make your first cast on stitch.

Step 7: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 7:

Insert the tip of your knitting needle under the yarn at the base of your left thumb.

Step 8: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 8:

Bring the tip of the needle over both the strands of yarn behind your left thumb.

Step 9: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 9:

With your needle, grab the yarn at the base of your left pointer finger by bringing the needle over the strand, then down toward your thumb.

Step 10: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 10:

Pull the loop you have created over the strand coming from behind your left thumb and under the strand in front of left your thumb.

Step 11: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 11:

You should now have a new stitch on your needle and a loop around your left thumb; gently remove your thumb from the stitch, while continuing to clasp the loose ends of your cast on with your left ring and pinkie fingers.

Step 12: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 12:

Place your left thumb back under the yarn tail that now comes from your second cast on stitch. Use this thumb to pull the stitch tighter (but not too tight) onto your knitting needle.

Step 13: Learn to cast on your first knit stitches. Putting yarn onto knitting needles for beginners with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Cast On, Step 13:

Rotate your hand back into position to cast on another stitch by turning your left palm toward you while still holding the working yarn and yarn tail with your left ring and pinkie fingers.

Cast On, Step 14:

Repeat steps 7 through 13 until you have cast on all the stitches your pattern requires. **Remember, your slipknot counts as your first stitch.**

Practice Your Cast On With My Free Knitting Patterns

The easiest and fastest knitting pattern to learn with is my Free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern. It is short and you will have a finished object more quickly.

If you would rather try a longer pattern, my Free Beginner Scarf Pattern is suitable for absolute beginners, as well. Because it has more stitches in the pattern, it will take longer than a scrubby to finish.

Up Next

Learn how to turn your work in this beginner knitting lesson from Liz @ PurlsAndPixels.

If your are making a flat piece, like the Face Scrubby or Scarf, you will need to turn your work next. Find out what that means here.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index