Essential stitch actions
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What is happening to the loop?
These three actions are different because the machine treats the existing loop differently.
Slip stitch
The needle does not receive new yarn. The existing loop remains on the needle while the yarn passes by.
A float is created at the back of the knit.
Float
A float is a length of yarn that passes across the back or surface of the fabric without forming a new loop at that needle position.
A float is created at the back of the knit.
Transfer
Transfers can be used to:
move stitches sideways
create holes or open structures
shape the fabric
create cables and other patterns
prepare stitches for increases or decreases
Explore
Why are these actions useful?
These actions give the knitting machine much more control than simply knitting every needle.
By selecting which needles knit, miss, tuck or transfer, the machine can create:
Patterns
Different needles can create different visual areas.
Open structures
Transferred stitches can create holes and open spaces.
Shape
Moving stitches or changing their position can help form three-dimensional shapes.
Texture
Combining actions can produce raised, recessed or irregular surfaces.
Colour effects
Floats can be used to create patterned colour areas.
See an example
Float Stitch
Sources:
Spencer, D. J. (2001). Knitting Technology. 3rd ed., Woodhead Publishing.
https://noteboi.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Knitting-Technology-compressed.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Coppieters, I. (2002). Breitechnieken – Opleiding voor commercielen. VDAB Training & Opleiding, via Cobot.
Fashionary. (2024). The Knitwear Manual: A Complete Guide to Knitwear Design.