When do I start kitchener stitch

[zonie]

Want to knit together the shoulders using kitchener stitch. Instructions say bind off 12 sts beg next and following alt row. Work 1 row even. Bind off rem 11 sts. (total 35 sts left on needle)
Do I bind off and only use the kitchener stitch on the last 11 sts or can I ingore the instructions and bind off the 35 stitches using the kitchener stitch.

[Jan in CA]

For shoulders I think a 3 needle bind off would be better..does the pattern specify kitchener?

[nannaknits]

Kitchener is not a stable enough stitch to bind off shoulder seams. It would cause your shoulders to bag out and sag. I agree with Jan a 3-needle bind off is a much better choice.

[zonie]

Thanks for your advice I will use the 3 needle bind off but when? Do you follow the instructions and only bind off three needle at the last 11 sts or bind off all 35 sts?

[suzeeq]

Instead of BO 12, put them on a spare needle so when you get to the last 11 sts, you'll have them all on one needle. When you do the fronts, do the same, then use the 3 needle BO. That way your shoulder will be more slanted than stepped.