How to work German Short Rows

Short rows are used to create extra wedges of fabric within your knitting, and can be used for everything from sock heels to bust darts. A short row is exactly what it sounds like: you turn your work part way through a row, then work over only a portion of the row. If you just turn your work mid-row, you’ll get a hole, but if you use German Short Rows, you can close those holes up as you work, and your short rows will be seamless.

Want to know how to work German Short Rows? Keep reading…

 

Working German Short Rows on a RS row

1. Knit to the point where you want to work the German Short Row.

2. Knit 1 stitch.

3. Slip the stitch from the right needle to the left.

4. Bring the yarn to the front OVER the needle to create the double stitch.

5. Turn.

6. Bring the yarn to the front between the needles.

Working German Short Rows on a WS row

1. Purl to the point where you want to work the German Short Row.

 

2. Purl 1 stitch.

3. Take the yarn to the back of the work between the needles.

4. Slip the stitch from the right needle to the left.

5. Bring the yarn to the front OVER the needle to create the double stitch.

6. Turn.

 

How to work the double stitches

On a RS row

1. Knit to the double stitch.

 

2. Knit the double stitch picking up both loops and working them as one.

What it looks like from the right side.

 

On a WS row

1. Purl to the double stitch.

 

2. Purl the double stitch picking up both loops and working them as one.

What it looks like from the right side.

What next?

Ready to try a pattern that uses German Short Rows? Why not try:

• Little Pine Cone Socks* (launching October 1st!)

*Ravelry link, may cause issues for people with photosensitivity. Proceed with caution. For alternative places to buy, check out my shop section.