Bind-Offs
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Bind Off Techniques (also known as casting off) are essential methods in machine knitting used to secure the live stitches at the end of a knitted piece, preventing them from unraveling. These techniques vary in elasticity, appearance, and the tools required, such as Latch Tools, Transfer Tools, or Tapestry Needles.[1][2]
Common Bind Off Methods[edit]
Latch Tool Bind Off[edit]
This is a quick and common method that creates a chain edge along the top of the knitting.[1] It involves using a Latch Tool to draw one stitch through another, effectively chaining off the stitches directly on the Needle Bed. This method is often used for a looser edge.[3]
Sewn Bind Offs (Tapestry/Darning Needle)[edit]
Sewn bind-offs use a Tapestry Needle or darning needle to secure stitches after the knitting has been removed from the machine or while still on the Needle Bed. These methods offer control over the tightness and appearance of the edge.[2] The yarn is removed from the Carriage and threaded onto the needle.
Running Stitch Method[edit]
This method is quick and produces a loose edge that can be gathered. It is suitable for swatches, tension squares, or garment pieces that need to be drawn up, such as sleeves or bodices. The edge can appear slightly uneven and is less secure than other methods, as a broken thread may cause stitches to unravel. To perform, thread a darning or tapestry needle with the working yarn and pass it through each stitch in a running stitch fashion (up and down through each stitch, or up through the back of each stitch) along the Needle Bed. Once completed, the weights are removed, and the empty carriage is passed across the needles to release the knitting.[2]
Backstitch Method[edit]
The backstitch method creates a neat, firmer, and often stretchy edge. It is a good choice for patterns like Slip Stitch or Tuck Stitch where a clean edge is desired. While slower than the running stitch method, it provides more control over the tension of the bind-off edge. The process involves threading a darning or tapestry needle and performing a backstitch through the live loops on the Needle Bed. This is done by going down through the first stitch, behind the next stitch to the left, and up through the next stitch to the left, then repeating the sequence.[2][3]
Stretchy Bind Offs[edit]
Several bind-off methods are designed to create a more elastic edge, which is ideal for necklines, cuffs, and hems.
- Around the Gate Pegs Bind Off: This technique provides a stretchy edge, similar to methods used on machines without gate pegs.[1][3]
- Figure 8 Bind Off: A loose and extra-stretchy bind-off, often recommended for Ribbing. If working with a Ribber, the ribber stitches are typically transferred to the main bed before binding off.[1][3]
- Stretchy (Back stitch) Bind Off: Similar to a hand knitting sewn bind off, this method is fast and creates a very stretchy edge. It is often a preferred method for its elasticity and speed.[1]
I-Cord Bind Off[edit]
Inspired by a hand knitting technique, the I-Cord bind off can be adapted for the knitting machine to create a decorative, cord-like edge.[1][3]
Picot Bind Off[edit]
This decorative bind-off creates a series of small loops or 'picots' along the edge. While it may not be the fastest finishing method, it adds a pretty, feminine detail to knitted items.[1]
3-Needle Bind Off[edit]
The machine knitting version of the hand knitting 3-needle bind off is used to join two knitted pieces together, typically for shoulder seams. Performing this on the machine creates a tidy, stable seam.[1]
Needles Out of Work Bind Off[edit]
This method is specifically used when knitting stitch patterns that involve needles being held out of work, ensuring a neat finish along such edges.[1]
Partial Bind Off[edit]
Often required for shaping, such as armholes, a partial bind off involves binding off a specific number of stitches at the beginning of a row, rather than the entire row.[1]
Alternatives to Binding Off[edit]
Scrap Off[edit]
Scrap Off (or scrapping off) is a technique used to safely remove knitting from the machine without binding off the stitches. This leaves the stitches live and open, which is useful when the stitches need to be picked up later, grafted, or joined to another piece. It typically involves knitting several rows of Waste Yarn before removing the work from the machine.[1]
Related Techniques[edit]
- Grafting (Machine Knitting) – A finishing technique used to seamlessly join two sets of live stitches, such as when closing open stitches left by a scrap off.