I don't get it!

leesakt · 03-16-2011, 11:12 AM

Hi,
I've used circular needles, but can't seem to handle dp needles. The beginning of this pattern says:
"Using dpns, CO 4 sts. Divide onto 4 needles. Join in the round, (k1,yo,k1) into all sts. Place end of round marker.
*Purl around.
(k1,place marker, m1,k1,m1,k1) around
Purl around.
(k to marker,m1*,slip marker,k1,m1)4x, knit to end of round
Repeat from * until there are 116 sts, changing to circulars when ready."
From there, you just keep increasing at the corners in sections (stockinette, honeycomb, garter, etc.). No worries there.

The problem is the very beginning. Argh! The dp needles are flopping around. I can't even figure out how to join. I've never done Magic Loop or used 2 circulars. Are there any other ways I could get this started?

Thanks.
leesakt

Mirl56 · 03-16-2011, 04:20 PM

It is extremely awkward/difficult to join in the round when you've only got 4 stitches.

Try the first few rows just knitting flat - back & forth. Since the pattern has you knir a row w/increases and purl the next, you must be making garter stitch. Be sure to knit the row that has no incs so it will still be garter stitch. Once you've got a bunch of increases and can put 4-5 stitches on each needle it will be easier to join in ther round, and you can use the tail to sew up the little seam.

Jan in CA · 03-16-2011, 05:33 PM

I agree with Marilyn. It's way to hard to knit before you've got a few rows.

ZoeS · 03-16-2011, 06:08 PM

If you can get someone to help you hold the needles in place while you are moving your stitches around, that might help. Otherwise, knit a bit before transferring to DPNs, as advised

suzeeq · 03-16-2011, 09:18 PM

Putting one st on each needle is really hard to start; I've found that if you put the sts on only 2 needles and use a 3rd on to work with for a few rounds that's much easier. It also helps to work a round plain first after you join, then the incs are a lot easier.

TEMA · 03-17-2011, 03:22 AM

You also might try the start of one st on ea needle by keeping the needles low... let them rest on your lap. I do this for all my beginning rounds of knitting with dpns and it really works for me.
TEMA