Lesson 2

Terminology and Abbreviations

Knitting Terminology


Each textile art has its own terminology. The list below includes common knitting terms, but does not include all knitting terminology.  It is important to refer to your pattern to see if any other knitting terminologies are referred to.



Casting Off
Casting off is the removal of stitches from the needle in a way that will not unravel or distort shape.
Casting On
Casting on is the first step in knitting. It forms the first row of stitches.
Decrease
A decrease in knitting is the reduction of one or more stitches.
Garter Stitch
Garter stitch is formed when every row is knitted; the resulting work is very elastic.
Gauge
Gauge is measured by counting the number of stitches and rows you knit to a given measurement.
Increase
An increase in knitting is the addition of one or more stitches.
Knit Stitch
The knit stitch forms a flat vertical loop in the right side of the knitting. In knitting the stitches are worked off the left needle onto the right needle.
Pattern
A pattern is the sequence of knitting techniques which is repeated across the project.
Pattern Sample
A pattern sample is knitted 10 cm square sample using stitches to be used in the project. It is essential to check stitch gauge (size) vertically and horizontally. The size of the finished project depends on a duplicated pattern.
Purl Stitch
The purl stitch forms a horizontal semicircle. When purling the needle enters the front of the work and wraps over the needle from back to front.
Stockinette Stitch
Stockinette stitch is formed by knitting one row and purling the next. It stretches horizontally.
Tension
Tension refers to the way the yarn passes through the fingers. Moderate tension occurs when stitches are worked easily with no spaces showing between needle and loops. Tension must be consistent producing an even fabric that is supple, not flimsy, and firm, but not stiff. Tension must suit the yarn, pattern stitch and needle size. Your tension must duplicate the tension given in the directions for your project. If it does not, experiment with different needle sizes.

Knitting Abbreviations


A knitting pattern can look like an early form of computer programming, however once you have learned the common abbreviations a person will find that patterns are generally quite simple to follow. The list below includes common knitting abbreviations, but does not include all knitting abbreviations. It is important to refer to your pattern to see if any other knitting abbreviations are referred to.


Term

Abbreviation

Term

Abbreviation
knit k slip sl
purl p stitch(es) st(s)
increase inc pass slipped stitch over knit stitch p.s.s.o
decrease dec inclusive incl
yarn over o knit 2 stitches together K2 tog
beginning b purl 2 stitches together P2 tog
together tog bring yarn forward and over yo
* (asterisk) means to repeat the instructions following the * as many times as noted.