Better Bind-off?

#1

When I do the basic bind-off in stocking st, I don’t like the way the edge rolls forward onto the right side. I really don’t want that look for the finish, if I’m binding off at the neckline for a doll’s sweater. I’d like that edge to sit right on top.

Is it something I’m doing wrong, or is there a knack to this, or - ? I’ve found it sits a little better if I alternate k & p, but that doesn’t look especially neat.

Are there other bind-offs that work better, or is it me? :??

Thanks for any tips and help!

#2

If it’s stockinette that is just the nature of the beast. You can try binding off on the purl side. I don’t know if it will help, but it looks nicer from that side sometimes anyway.

The only other idea is to knit a non curling border like garter or seed stitch.

#3

So are you saying that if you do a few rows - maybe 3? - of non curling stitch then bind off, the bind off row won’t roll to the finished side?

#4

It often takes more, but it can’t hurt. Where is the edge? If its a hem on the bottom you may need more than a neck. Sometimes the edge will still fold along the edge between the border and stockinette. :zombie:

#5

I’m such a dolt, lol. I knew stockinette rolls of course, but for whatever reason thought it was the bind off ITSELF rolling forward. It’s usually necklines that bother me. If I’m doing a sweater from the bottom up, I always start with a non-rolling trim - it just never occurred to me that binding off needed the same - like I said, “dolt”. :blush:

#6

:). It happens.

#7

Mulling this over a bit - for a front neckline (knit from the bottom up), I’m casting off about 6 or 8 sts mid-row then continuing up and over the shoulder and down the back. Not sure how it’d work out to change to gs or other non-rolling st just for the neckline. Could do some designs to suit it though. Have to get more creative I guess!

#8

If you can crochet, single crochet or crab stitch (sc worked backwards) might give you the edge you’re looking for.

#9

It won’t stop stockinette from curling as it’s the nature of the beast, but binding off in purl on the RS seems to work well for a flatter edge IME.

#10

Becky & GG - Good tips, I’ll experiment - thanks!