Knitting Tutorial: How to Knit the Loop Stitch

 

In knitting, textured stitches are beautiful patterns that enhance the look of even the simplest project. Whether you make textures in a headband, a sweater, or even a blanket, all you need are knitting needles, yarn, and basic skills. The loop stitch is a beautiful textured stitch in knitting. There is one in crochet, too, but we'll discuss the interesting knitting technique here. The loop stitch creates a fur-type texture that looks great on an Amigurumi project, makes a scarf look glamorous, or creates a practical dishcloth for cleaning, a plush cushion to snuggle, a chic headband, or even a warm rug to sit by the fireside.

 

What is the Loop Stitch?

 

The name of the stitch itself reveals how it looks. The non-reversible pattern will have loops on the project's right side (RS). You can either add loops to a garter stitch pattern or with a stockinette pattern. You can make the loop stitch using either knit or purl stitches. You basically leave a loop of yarn while knitting that gives its name. The beauty of the stitch pattern is that you can customize the size of the loops. The loop stitch does not require a particular technique. You can make them on any knitted fabric by making loops of yarn by adapting the size.

 

Knitting the loop stitch is not as challenging as it looks. You can choose any yarn; fuzzy fibers will do wonderfully but might challenge you to spot the stitches and follow the steps clearly. For needles, you can work the loop stitch with any type. Straight and circular needles are ideal for back-and-forth knitting if you plan to knit a dishcloth or a scarf. For knitting in the round, for hats or tops of socks, or even a headband, work with double-pointed needles (if you are comfortable with DPNs and are working on small circumference projects.) Circular knitting needles open up multiple options for round knitting.

 

So, without further ado, let's get started. Begin with a quick and easy project, maybe a headband or a dishcloth. Once you have had enough practice, work on a rug, blanket, or even a sweater.

 

Step 1: Cast on Stitches

 

Like every knitting project, start with a cast-on. Cast on stitches in even numbers plus 2 with any method you prefer. If you are confident with the long tail cast-on, go ahead with it. If you are following the pattern, the stitch count will be mentioned. Start with a swatch and cast on 30 plus 2 stitches for practice.

 

If you are knitting in the round, make sure to join the round. You can choose any method, such as an invisible join, which involves casting on an extra stitch and slipping it to the other needle tip.

 

Step 2: Knit the first row or round

 

For the first row of your loop stitch project, knit all the cast-on stitches. If you are working on a project in the round, you do not need to turn the project but work seamlessly in rounds.

 

Step 3: Working the Loop Stitch

 

For the next row, you will work on the loop stitches. Start with a knit stitch, but do not complete it. Insert the knitting needle tip in the stitch, take the yarn strand, wrap the yarn clockwise around the needle, and then bring the working strand to the front of your work. Loop the yarn around your thumb or any finger and then around the knitting needle tip. You can use a DPN or any other object to make a loop. Make the loop at the length you want it to be; move your thumb away from the stitch for a longer loop, while for a shorter loop, position your thumb right next to the needles.

 

Next, knit one stitch and complete the first loop stitch. The loop will not unravel, as it is secured by the knit stitches you make before and after it.

Continue the sequence of knit stitches and loop stitches until you have completed your project.

 

Step 4: Bind off the pattern and weave in the ends

Once you've reached the project's length, it's time to bind off the knitting. Make sure to weave in the yarn ends with a finishing needle.

 

Whatever your knitting style or technique, we believe the work will be even more satisfying when you work with superior-quality tools. The Lantern Moon Collection offers handcrafted knitting needles, crochet hooks, and accessories. Each tool and accessory is crafted from ebony wood by skilled artisans. The needles have a smooth surface and a luxurious silk-like finish, while the precise tips work well with all types of yarn. You will be ready to tackle various projects with any Lantern Moon Interchangeable Knitting Needle Sets.