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This method of short rows has grown in popularity in recent years, and many knitters prefer this method over others. As with all approaches to a particular construction technique, not everyone achieves the same results, and short rows are no exception.

It’s worthwhile to explore a few methods and see which ones give you the best results. Gauge is very much an issue when it comes to short row methods, and whether or not you are working flat, whether the short row is on a purl or knit row, or whether the short rows are being worked in the round – and in this last case, often a combination of short methods works best.

In this example of German Short Rows, I’m working in Garter Stitch, which seems to be a perfect pairing. I’ve also written a tutorial for how to graft this method, should you wish to try it for your sideways Hats!

This method will also work for a stocking stitch sideways knit Hat where the short rows all appear on the knit side of the work (such as the Abalone or Dryad).

Working across the short row

Once you’ve created your short rows, you’ll need to work across them all to close them and give your work a neat finish. Compared to working the wrap and turn method this part is much quicker and easier than picking up the wrap.

If you are working your short rows consecutively, i.e. such as the crown on a sideways knit Hat, then your short rows will consistently be on the same side of your work.

However, if you also have short rows at the brim of a sideways knit Hat, or are working short rows at either end of a piece of flat knitting, then the back side of this method will appear on the right side of your work.

For one or two stitches this will likely not be noticeable, especially in garter stitch, but it’s important to be aware of this difference.

With the wrap and turn method you have more flexibility, as you would pick up the wrap from whichever side is the right side and your short rows would then be consistent in appearance from the front of your work.

Support

As always, if you have a question about this technique or need some help with it, leave a comment below! I’m afraid I’m unable to offer help via email or private message, but you’re welcome to post in our forum.

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