I have a question regarding binding off ‘in pattern’ correctly. This might be an odd question, yet my bind offs never really mirror my cast on edges and it drives me crazy. I’m finishing a throw that works its pattern using a repeat of six rows. The pattern says to finish the last six repeats and bind off. OK. So, I guess I knit the sixth row completely. Then, do I come back and bind off using the [I]same[/I] knitting pattern as that last (6th) row - or - should I bind off while using the knitting pattern in the next row of stitches in the pattern, which would then be the 1st row? OR - do I bind off [I]as[/I] I’m knitting that last (6th) row? Unless I bind off [I]as[/I] I’m knitting that last row, I’ll either be duplicating that same row of stitches or starting the pattern over again. I know I’ve got to be making this more confusing than it really is but any help would be appreciated.
Bind-offs generally don’t match cast-ons, so you’re not doing anything wrong there.
When I bind off in pattern, I usually work the stitches as they face men–knit the knits and purl the purls. I honestly don’t think it makes much difference since the stitch that you pass over pretty much covers the stitches.
The bind off is just like another row except that the sts don’t stay on the right needle. So if you want to BO on the 6th row, you could, or use the 1st row as the bo row.
Often times, I like to bind off on the wrong side, especially if it’s a purl row. I purl looser than i knit so I find my BO rows that are done while purling are a bit stretchier than while knitting. You could also try using a larger needle to bind off. In the end, like Jan said, BO rows don’t match CO rows, you just need to find something that works for you and your needs.