German Short Rows
German Short Rows are a modern technique for knitting short rows without visible gaps, utilizing double stitches instead of the classic wrap-and-turn.
Explanation
German Short Rows are a popular method for creating three-dimensional shaping in knitting without leaving holes. Instead of the traditional 'wrap and turn' method, you create a 'double stitch' at the turning point. This gives a cleaner result and is easier to perform. The technique is often used to shape sock heels, create depth in hats, and shape the shoulders and necklines of sweaters.
Also known as: GSR
How to work them
Turn the work, bring the yarn to the front, and slip the first stitch purlwise to the right needle. Then pull firmly upward on the yarn until the stitch below is drawn up over the needle and shows two legs. That double stitch is the whole technique.
When you later reach the double stitch, work both legs together as though they were one stitch. The hole closes with nothing to pick up.
Why they took over
Wrap and turn requires remembering to pick up the wrap together with its stitch on the right row — a common place to go wrong. German short rows have no such extra operation, and the result is nearly invisible.
The method turns up in a lot of recent patterns — heels, yokes and shoulders — and it is the one we reach for ourselves.
Common mistakes
- Not pulling hard enough, so the double stitch does not form.
- Working only one leg of the double stitch later, which leaves an extra stitch.
Keywords
- German short rows
- short rows
- shaping
- short row shaping
- no-gap short rows
Frequently asked questions
What is a double stitch?
The stitch created when you pull the yarn up over the needle after turning. It shows two legs and is worked as one stitch later.
Are German short rows better than wrap and turn?
They are simpler and leave less trace. Wrap and turn is still used, particularly in older patterns.