Knitting Lace: How to Master This Added Stitch for Elegant Creations

Knit Sis

Knitting lace, or the art of openwork stitches, gives your projects an incomparable elegance. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, mastering these techniques can transform your creations into unique and refined pieces. In this article, we will guide you step by step to successfully create your added stitches and integrate beautiful openwork patterns into your knits. Prepare your needles and let your creativity express itself!

What is knitted lace?

Knitting lace refers to the use of openwork stitches to create delicate and elegant designs. These designs are achieved by combining increases (such as yarn overs) and decreases (such as serging).

  • Key points:
    • Ideal for scarves, shawls and lightweight sweaters.
    • Requires precision and attention to detail.

The basics for getting started with knitting lace

The essential tools

  • Circular needles : perfect for large projects.
  • Stitch markers : essential for separating pattern sections.
  • A suitable thread : choose light threads (alpaca, merino, cotton).

The essential techniques

  • The yarn over : creates an additional stitch for the openwork.
  • Decreases : compensate for increases to keep the number of stitches constant.

Quick Tutorial: Make a Simple Lace Pattern

Follow this step-by-step for a basic pattern:

  1. Cast on a multiple of 10 stitches + 2 edge stitches.
  2. Row 1 (right side) : 1 edge stitch, [2 stitches together, 1 yarn over] repeat to end, 1 edge stitch.
  3. Row 2 (wrong side) : purl all stitches.
  4. Repeat these two rows until you get the desired length.

Tip: Test on a sample before embarking on a full project.

How to avoid common mistakes?

The unexpected holes

  • Check your stitch counts at the end of each row.
  • Use stitch markers to separate each pattern.

Irregular tension

  • Maintain constant tension, especially when throwing.
  • Block your knitting once finished to even out the look.

Get inspired with Knit-Sis patterns

Want to put your new skills to use? Check out Knit-Sis’ patterns that feature openwork stitches:

  • Aude Vest : a wraparound vest with lace patterns.
  • Marguerite vest : perfect for winter with its openwork details on the sides.

👉 Download your pattern now to start your project!

Conclusion :

Knitting lace offers endless possibilities to add sophistication to your projects. Whether you're knitting a simple scarf or an intricate shawl, each openwork stitch is a step toward a unique creation.

💡 Don’t miss our exclusive selection of lace patterns, available for a limited time! Explore the collection here.

Question: How do you achieve a lace stitch in knitting?
Answer: To make a lace stitch, combine yarn overs (to add stitches) and decreases (to balance the number of stitches). Use markers to structure the pattern and check your stitches on each row.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.