Garter stitch question

#1

I’m trying to make a tank top but I don’t have a pattern. Right now I’m trying to figure out how I want to make the straps and I was looking at some patterns to see what other people have done for straps. One pattern used modified garter stitch and another pattern used straight garter stitch. What is the difference in these stitches? Are either of them the same as just plain garter stitch?

#2

I’ve seen modified garter st used for just what you’re looking for, straps on a tank or camisole. It’s used over 6 sts as follows:
Row 1: (RS)Knit.
Row 2: (WS)Knit.
Row 3 : K1, slip 1, k2, slip 1, k1.
Row 4: Knit.
I think straight garter st is the usual, knit all the rows and ‘straight’ is used to distinguish it from the modified garter st.

#3

Just be aware that garter stitch is very stretchy. You may need to take that into consideration if you’re making straps for a tank top. :thumbsup:

#4

Yes, Jan’s right and I think that’s why the modified garter st is used for straps. The slip st tightens up the garter st lengthwise so it’s not quite as stretchy.

#5

Linen stitch works well for straps, and so does seed st.

#6

Thanks for the answers! I’ll make some swatches to see what I like. I’ve also thought about using I-cord.