Edge Stitch
The edge stitch is the outermost stitch in each row, often worked or slipped in a specific way to give the fabric a neater, more even border.
Explanation
Edge stitches are the outermost stitches on each side of the fabric, and how they are treated has a big impact on how neat the result looks, especially in flat knitting that will be seamed or have a visible edge. Common methods include knitting the edge stitch plain throughout, slipping it purlwise every row for a distinct, braided edge, or purling it for a flatter finish. The choice of edge stitch depends on whether the edge will be sewn, have stitches picked up from it, or remain visible as a finished border, such as on a scarf.
Also known as: Selvedge, Selvage
What it does
The edge stitch is the outermost stitch on each side of flat knitting, often worked differently from the rest to give a neat, even edge. Common variants are knitting it every row, or slipping the first stitch of every row.
Slipped edge stitches give a chained edge where two rows make one link, which is easy to count and looks tidy on scarves and shawls.
Edges to be seamed or picked up from
If the piece will be seamed, a consistent edge stitch is invaluable: mattress stitch is worked in the bar between the edge stitch and its neighbour, and a tidy edge gives an invisible seam.
If you will pick up stitches along the edge later, a slipped edge is less practical, because you have half as many points to pick up from.
Common mistakes
- Decreasing into the edge stitch itself, which leaves a ragged edge.
- Using a slipped edge where stitches will be picked up.
Keywords
- edge stitch
- selvedge
- border stitch
Frequently asked questions
Do I need edge stitches?
On scarves and shawls they give a noticeably tidier edge. For pieces that will be seamed, a plain knit edge stitch is often best.
What is a slipped edge stitch?
You slip the first stitch of every row without working it. That gives a chained edge where one link equals two rows.