Master how to increase knitting stitches with this comprehensive guide! Discover essential techniques, tips, and the best tools for success. Check out free patterns on my blog to practice your skills.
Knitting is an art that thrives on versatility, and learning how to increase knitting stitches is one of the most valuable skills in a knitter’s toolkit. Whether you’re shaping a garment, adding decorative flair, or adjusting for a better fit, knowing how to use different increase methods will elevate your projects.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common increase techniques, when to use each, and why I recommend KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) as the perfect tool for the job. At the end, you’ll find five free knitting patterns from my blog where you can put your skills to the test.
What Does It Mean to Increase Knitting Stitches?
Increasing stitches involves adding new stitches to your knitting, creating extra width, shaping, or decorative elements. Different methods produce varying results—some are nearly invisible, while others make bold statements. Mastery of these techniques allows you to approach any project, from mittens to sweaters, with confidence and creativity.
The Most Popular Methods for How to Increase Knitting Stitches
1. Make One (M1) Increases
The Make One increase is a subtle, nearly invisible method. It involves lifting the horizontal bar between two stitches and knitting into the back of it, creating a left- or right-leaning stitch.
When to Use:
- Seamless garment shaping, such as raglan sweaters
- Subtle increases in fitted projects
Pro Tip: KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) have sharp tips that make it easier to pick up the bar without splitting your yarn.
2. Knit Front and Back (KFB)
KFB is a straightforward and beginner-friendly method. You knit into the front and back of the same stitch, creating an additional stitch. It leaves a slight bump, making it noticeable but great for projects where texture is welcome.
When to Use:
- Garments or accessories with casual textures
- Beginner projects requiring simple techniques
Pro Tip: The smooth glide of KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) ensures easy transitions for this method, even with bulkier yarns.
3. Yarn Over (YO) Increases
Yarn overs are a decorative way to increase stitches, creating an intentional hole in your fabric. They’re often used in lace knitting and eyelet designs.
When to Use:
- Lacework and airy designs
- Decorative increases in accessories or garments
Pro Tip: The lightweight feel and precision of KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) make yarn overs a breeze, especially with fine yarns.
4. Lifted Increases (LLI and RLI)
Lifted increases involve knitting into the stitch below the one on your needle, either from the left (LLI) or right (RLI). This creates a clean, nearly invisible increase that blends seamlessly into your fabric.
When to Use:
- Projects requiring symmetrical shaping
- Fitted garments or accessories
Pro Tip: KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) are excellent for lifted increases because their sharp tips help pick up stitches without snagging.
5. Bar Increases
Bar increases involve knitting the same stitch twice—once in the front and once in the back. It leaves a visible bar, making it a slightly decorative increase.
When to Use:
- Casual or textured projects
- Beginner-friendly knits
Pro Tip: Try bar increases with a project using medium-weight yarns to get comfortable. KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) offer versatility across all yarn weights.
How to Choose the Right Increase for Your Project
Selecting the right increase depends on the type of project and the desired aesthetic. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:
- Use Make One (M1) for subtle shaping, especially in garments like sweaters.
- Choose Knit Front and Back (KFB) for beginner projects or those where texture adds charm.
- Opt for Yarn Over (YO) in lace or decorative designs.
- Try Lifted Increases when you want a clean, invisible look for symmetrical shaping.
- Use Bar Increases for a beginner-friendly method or casual projects.
Tools for Perfect Knitting Increases
The tools you use can significantly impact your knitting experience. I highly recommend KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) for all your projects. Their lightweight design, sharp tips, and smooth surface make them ideal for any increase technique.
Why KnitPicks Reflections Needles (Affiliate Link)?
- Sharp tips make picking up stitches easy
- Smooth surface for effortless glide
- Suitable for all yarn weights
Five Patterns to Practice Knitting Increases
Practice is key to mastering how to increase knitting stitches. I’ve included five free patterns from my blog that are perfect for honing your skills:
- Baby Deborah Tee
- A simple, beginner-friendly project that incorporates bar increases.
- Download the pattern here.
- Aaron Mittens
- A cozy mitten pattern featuring lifted increases for symmetrical shaping.
- Download the pattern here.
- Youth Noah Sweater
- This raglan sweater pattern is ideal for practicing make-one increases.
- Download the pattern here.
- Rosemary Cardigan
- Practice yarn overs with this lace-inspired cardigan.
- Download the pattern here.
- Baby June Dress Mittens
- Master knit-front-and-back increases with these adorable baby mittens.
- Download the pattern here.
Tips for Knitting Increases
- Swatch First: Before working on a project, practice increases on a small swatch to perfect your technique.
- Use Stitch Markers: Mark your increase points for consistent placement.
- Check Your Tension: Ensure even tension across all stitches for a polished look.
- Choose the Right Tools: Invest in quality tools like KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) to make every stitch smooth and precise.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Stitches: Double-check your work to ensure you’ve added the correct number of stitches.
- Uneven Tension: Maintain consistent tension to avoid loose or tight stitches around your increases.
- Choosing the Wrong Method: Match your increase technique to the needs of your project for the best results.
Wrapping It All Up
Learning how to increase knitting stitches is essential for every knitter, and with the right techniques and tools, it’s a skill you can master. Whether you’re shaping a sweater, adding texture to mittens, or creating delicate lace details, the methods shared in this guide will help you achieve your goals.
Ready to get started? Explore free patterns like the Baby Deborah Tee and Aaron Mittens on my blog and practice your increases today. Don’t forget to use KnitPicks Reflections needles (affiliate link) for a smooth and enjoyable knitting experience.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!