Baby blanket help

[ew2009]

Hi, I'm attempting to knit this baby blanket

http://www.knittingonthenet.com/patt...fmoonstars.htm

The directions say to:

CO 116 sts loosely.
Work 3 rows Seed Stitch:
Row 1: *k1, p1; rep from *
Row 2: sl 1, *k1, p1; rep from *, end k1
Row 3: sl 1, * p1, k1; rep from *, end p1
Working the first and last 4 sts in Seed Stitch and continuing to slip the first st of every row, begin with Row 1 of chart, repeating chart 3 times across. Place markers between repeats if desired.

I understand that "sl 1" is to put the stitch on the other needle without knitting it. However, I don't understand why. What's it doing that the pattern wants me to slip the first st of every row?? (what's the point?)

Thanks for any explanation!

[Jan in CA]

Slipping the first stitch makes a nice, even edge that looks like a little chain. Do a bit of a swatch to see what it looks like if you aren't sure about it and want to see before you do it.

[suzeeq]

What Jan said. However, when I slip the first st it comes out looser and messier than knitting or purling it, so that's what I do. You don't have to slip it, try a sample both ways to see which you like better.

[ew2009]

Ok thanks! I'll have to try it.

[Jan in CA]

It comes out different if you slip wyif or wyib so try both to see what you like. The chain is created by slipping wyif I believe.

wyif -(with yarn in front as if you are purling)
wyib -(with yarn in back as if you are knitting

Whether you choose to slip wyif, wyib or not at all just be consistent for the prettiest edge.