Kitchener Stitch Knitting Tutorial

Kitchener stitching is a way to seamlessly close live knit stitches by sewing them closed, mimicking a new row of knitting. This photo tutorial is showing the technique used on a sock toe from a top-down slipper sock as an example. This slipper sock also uses the Kitchener stitch to close up an afterthought heel.

• Two double pointed knitting needles
• Tapestry needle
• Tail of working yarn

Divide stitches equally onto two double pointed needles. Your working yarn should be on the right side in between the two needles. Cut a long tail from your working yarn, 3-4 times the length of the opening you are sewing. Thread tapestry needle with the long tail. If you do not have your working yarn still attached, cut a new length of yarn and leave a tail to weave in at the end.

Insert tapestry needle as if to PURL through the first stitch on the FRONT needle. Pull yarn through.

Insert tapestry needle as if to KNIT the first stitch on the BACK needle. Pull yarn through.

Insert tapestry needle as if to KNIT the first stitch on the FRONT needle. Drop this stitch off the needle.

Insert tapestry needle as if to PURL the new first stitch on the FRONT needle. Pull yarn through.

Insert tapestry needle as if to PURL the first stitch on the BACK needle. Drop this stitch off the needle.

Insert tapestry needle as if to KNIT the new first stitch on the BACK needle. Pull yarn through.

Repeat steps 4-7 until you have worked all of the stitches. Make sure the kitchener stitches are not too loose or too tight so they blend in with the rest of the work. Weave in ends.