How to Make the Left Twist Stitch

Have you ever been able to create a sweater or a knit scarf, but want to add a little more to the look of the garment? It is pretty easy, and adds a lot of definition to the knitted item! Here's how to make this happen:

Note: Working from a knit created row, and are right handed, this will work in any knitted row.

1. Skip the first stitch from the left needle. With your right needle, go behind the left needle, and then push the right needle into the back loop of the second stitch that is already on the left needle. Wrap your yarn around the right needle, knitting, and pull it through.

2. Then, knit the skipped first stitch from the front loop, and then slip both off the left needle.

3. You can then continue with some more stitches, and then continue on to your purl side.

From the Purl side you will want to capture the same area, on the other side, if you are knitting and purling. If you are just knitting, continue the directions above, and add the left cross stitch at the next stitch where you skipped, and slipped. Here's how to perform the Left cross cable in a purl.

From the Purl row, and you are right handed, working in any purl row.

1. Where you want to start your cable, skip the first stitch, and go to the second purl stitch, and purl that stitch, keeping the second stitch on the needle.

2. Purl that last skipped first stitch, and then slip both of your new stitches from the left needle.

Don't worry if this seems confusing, and be gentle and kind to yourself as you are learning. Knitting a new twisty simple twist into any scarf or pattern can vary the pattern a bit, so be careful that you block your items after they are complete. The twist stitch looks so scary, but if you try a stitch, you are going to find the twist very rewarding. If you are making a collar for a sweater, a baby twist in the collar can make it curl in a new an really nice way. Twists are a great way to use a nice yarn that is lofty too, and bring some great simple definition. Cables and twists are often used together, and offer a nice really variable look to the garment.

Here is a very well done video, and this should be a great way for you to knit and purl your way into a happy stitching day!