How to knit sleeve stitches with double-pointed needles on a top-down sweater
If you are knitting a top-down sweater and it is time to work on the sleeves, in this article I will explain how to take up the stitches and knit in the round using double pointed needles . This method is ideal if you prefer to avoid the magic loop and achieve a more fluid knit.
In the video, I'm using Rachel Ilsley's Knot Bad Sweater , knitted in Alvor yarn (wool and linen) in color #13. You can find this yarn here.
📌 Necessary materials
- Double pointed needles of the same size you used for the body.
- Lap start marker, hook or safety pin type (optional).
Step by step to take the stitches and distribute them on the needles
1️⃣ Count the stitches on hold : Check how many stitches you have on the cable and how many you need to pick up in the armpit. Divide the total number of stitches by three to distribute them on the double pointed needles.
2️⃣ Distribute the stitches : Transfer the stitches to three needles, leaving a fourth needle free for knitting. If you need to pick up additional stitches in the armpit, subtract them from the amount you put on needle one and needle three.
3️⃣ Lifting the stitches in the armpit : Use the insertion technique in the "little mounds" of the base of the cast on to avoid holes. Adjust the tension so that the fabric is neat.
4️⃣ Closing circular knitting : Once the stitches are distributed, begin knitting with the free needle, making sure that the tension is even when changing from one needle to another.
5️⃣ Sleeve decreases : Generally, patterns indicate to decrease every few rows. The standard decrease is:
- At the beginning of the round : Knit 1 stitch, then 2 stitches together.
- At the end of the round : Slip 1 stitch, slip another, and knit together (DDT).
📍 Tip : If you see a small hole where the body meets the sleeve, you can pick up an extra strand and knit it together with the next stitch to hide it.
Conclusion
This method of knitting sleeves with double-pointed needles will allow you to work in the round without the need for a magic loop. The key is to distribute the stitches well and maintain a balanced tension.
💬 Have you ever knitted sleeves with double-pointed needles? Do you prefer another method? Let me know in the comments!
📲 Find more patterns and materials at: www.cataknits.com
📹 Watch the full video here:
See you in the next tutorial! 🧶✨
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