Hi, I’m attempting to knit this baby blanket
http://www.knittingonthenet.com/patterns/babyafmoonstars.htm
The directions say to:
CO 116 sts loosely.
Work 3 rows Seed Stitch:
Row 1: *k1, p1; rep from *
Row 2: sl 1, *k1, p1; rep from *, end k1
Row 3: sl 1, * p1, k1; rep from *, end p1
Working the first and last 4 sts in Seed Stitch and continuing to slip the first st of every row, begin with Row 1 of chart, repeating chart 3 times across. Place markers between repeats if desired.
I understand that “sl 1” is to put the stitch on the other needle without knitting it. However, I don’t understand why. What’s it doing that the pattern wants me to slip the first st of every row?? (what’s the point?)
Thanks for any explanation! 
Slipping the first stitch makes a nice, even edge that looks like a little chain. Do a bit of a swatch to see what it looks like if you aren’t sure about it and want to see before you do it.
What Jan said. However, when I slip the first st it comes out looser and messier than knitting or purling it, so that’s what I do. You don’t have to slip it, try a sample both ways to see which you like better.
Ok thanks! I’ll have to try it.
It comes out different if you slip wyif or wyib so try both to see what you like. The chain is created by slipping wyif I believe.
wyif -(with yarn in front as if you are purling)
wyib -(with yarn in back as if you are knitting
Whether you choose to slip wyif, wyib or not at all just be consistent for the prettiest edge.
