How to make a Double stitch
Not to be confused with Double Knitting (an entirely different technique!) the Double Stitch is used in knitting short rows to prevent holes forming where you turn your work.
In German Short Rows a double stitch is worked instead of a wrap.
Make double stitch (Purl row)
Step 1
With yarn in front, insert RH needle as if to purl.
Step 2
Pull working yarn back over top of RH needle.
Step 3
Bring working yarn back to front of work between needles ready to purl next st.
The slipped stitch is now distorted with both of its “legs” sitting up on the RH needle. In this position it looks like two stitches which is why we call it a double stitch (ds).
Keep a slightly tighter tension than usual for the next few stitches to keep both “legs” of the double stitch in place.
Make double stitch (knit row)
Step 1
With yarn in front, insert RH needle as if to purl.
Step 2
Pull working yarn back over top of RH needle.
Leave working yarn at back of work; you are now ready to knit next st.
Keep a slightly tighter tension than usual for the first few stitches to keep both “legs” of the double stitch in place.
Resolving Double Stitches – p ds and k ds
When you have finished working your short rows you will need to resolve the double stitches you have made in order to knit back to the edges of your work.
On a purl row – purl both “legs” together as one (p ds).
On a knit row – knit both “legs” together as one (k ds).
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