Proper Seaming in Knitting

Seaming Choice

• Seaming methods vary depending on the type of stitching in the two adjacent pieces, whether the new seam will be vertical or horizontal, and the strength needed in the finished seam.

Knit Stitch Seaming

• Vertical seams for congruent knit pieces are sewn from the front of the project and become invisible by hiding the edges of the two separate pieces behind the seam. When vertically seaming stocking stitches, this method is known as mattress stitching. Similarly invisible, horizontal seams appear as a new row of knit stitches. Vertical and horizontal knit stitch seaming typically join a like number of stitches, but variation must be accounted for if a vertical knit is joined to a horizontal. The seaming method then is sewn behind the fabric to connect the perpendicular stitches.

Garter Stitch Seaming

• Garter stitches are seamed in a similar manner to the vertical knit stitch. The seam creates a series of alternating loops at the front of the project, which results in an invisible join. These invisible seaming methods rely on mimicking the knit pattern of the adjacent pieces in the new seam for a continuous end appearance.

Ribbing Seaming

• Since ribbing includes alternating knit and purl stitches, there are three stitch situations that may occur in ribbing seaming. Slight differences in the sewing are necessary if joining purl-to-purl stitches, knit-to-knit stitches, or purl-to-knit stitches. However, all of these seams are worked from the front of the project and mimic a logical row in the project's pattern.

Strong and Visible Seaming

• Less knit-intensive seams are used when a strong join is needed in a project. A slipstitch crochet seam creates a visible and durable seam by crocheting a line of yarn through the edge stitches of the adjacent pieces. A less visible option is the backstitch, which copies a familiar sewing technique, and can be worked on the inside of the project for sturdiness with clean aesthetic.