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| Photo above © bluprint |
Neat knitting edges can make a simple project look much more polished. The best selvedge depends on whether the edge will stay visible, be seamed later, or be used for picking up stitches.
Here are five useful knitting edges to try, with links to detailed tutorials for each technique.
1. Basic Slip-Stitch Selvedge
A slipped-stitch selvedge creates a clean, chain-like line along the side of the fabric. It is a useful choice when the edge will remain visible, such as on scarves, shawls and open-front pieces.
The basic idea is to slip an edge stitch instead of working it on every row, producing a smoother and more defined side edge.
Learn the Basic Slip-Stitch Selvedge →
2. German Slip-Stitch Selvedge
The German slip-stitch selvedge creates a similarly tidy edge, but the slipped stitch is worked at the end of the row rather than at the beginning.
This small change produces a distinctive edge and is worth trying if you want an alternative to the more familiar slipped-first-stitch method.
Learn the German Slip-Stitch Selvedge →
3. Garter Stitch Selvedge
A garter stitch selvedge is one of the simplest ways to create a stable edge.
It works especially well beside textured stitch patterns such as garter stitch, seed stitch and moss stitch, and it can also provide a useful edge when stitches will later be picked up.
Learn the Garter Stitch Selvedge →
4. Chain Selvedge
The chain selvedge creates a decorative row of elongated stitches along the side of the knitting.
It is especially attractive on scarves, shawls and other projects where the edge remains visible. It can also be useful when picking up stitches for a border.
It is not always the best choice for a seam, however, because the larger edge stitches can create a looser join.
Learn the Chain Selvedge at Interweave →
5. Reverse Garter Stitch Selvedge
Reverse garter stitch is a simple variation of the regular garter selvedge.
Instead of knitting the edge stitches, the edge is formed with purl stitches. The result behaves in a similar way while giving the edge a slightly different texture.
This is a useful option when a purl-textured edge blends more naturally with the stitch pattern in the rest of your project.
Learn the Reverse Garter Selvedge →
Which edge should you choose? Use a decorative chain or slipped-stitch edge when the side will remain visible. For edges that will be seamed or used to pick up stitches, consider a firmer selvedge that makes the next construction step easier.
More Knitting Tips
- Easy Trick for Tracking Repeated Knitting Rows
- Herringbone Stitch - Knitting Stitch Guide
- Twisted Rib Stitch
Editorial note: This Amazing Knitting guide introduces several common selvedge techniques and links to external educational tutorials for further instruction. Different knitting traditions may use slightly different variations of the same edge.