What is Binding Off
Binding off (also called cast off) is the process of closing the stitches on your needle so the work won't unravel. It's the final step of every knitting project and the binding off method affects the appearance and stretch of the top edge.
Method 1: Standard Bind Off
Step 1: Knit 2 stitches.
Step 2: With the left needle, pull the first stitch over the second and slide it off the needle. One stitch remains on the right needle.
Step 3: Knit another stitch. Again pull the previous stitch over the new one. Repeat to the end of the row.
Step 4: When the last stitch remains, cut the yarn, pull the end through the stitch and tighten.
This method is the simplest and most common. The edge is firm and straight. Disadvantage: it can be too tight — especially for hems and edges that need to stretch.
Method 2: Stretchy Bind Off
For hats, socks, cowls and anywhere the edge needs to be elastic.
Jeny's surprisingly stretchy bind off: Before each knit stitch, make a yarn over, knit the stitch, pull the yarn over over the stitch, then pull the previous stitch over the current one. The yarn over adds yarn reserve and the edge stretches.
Simpler alternative: Bind off with needles 2 sizes larger than you knitted with — stitches will be looser and the edge more elastic.
Method 3: Three-Needle Bind Off
For joining two pieces at once — typically sweater shoulders.
Process: You have stitches of the front and back pieces on two needles. With a third needle, knit one stitch from the front and one from the back needle together while binding off at the same time. Result: joined seam and bind off in one step.
Binding Off on the Wrong Side
If you need to bind off on the wrong side, bind off in purl — the process is the same as basic bind off, just purl instead of knit. The edge then looks the same as knit bind off, just from the other side.
How to Recognize Overly Tight Bind Off
Place the bound off edge next to the cast on edge or next to the middle of the work. If the bound off edge is significantly shorter or pulling in, it's too tight. Solution: unravel and bind off again more loosely, with larger needles or using a stretchy method.
Which Method for Which Project
| Project | Method | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scarf, blanket | Basic | Straight, stable edge |
| Hat (brim edge) | Stretchy | Must stretch over head |
| Socks (top edge) | Stretchy | Must stay up on calf |
| Sweater shoulders | Three-needle | Joining + binding off at once |
| Ribbed hems | Stretchy | Maintaining ribbing elasticity |
