How do I add stitches at the end of a row?
There are various methods you can use…
If a pattern asks you to add stitches at the end of a row, this is also simple once you know how. In fact, there are a few different methods you could use to do this. The method I’m going to show is the Chain Length technique, which works for any stitch pattern and looks neat.
Step 1 To get ready to practise, work to the end of a row and don’t turn. Place the working loop on a stitch marker to secure it. Step 2 Cut a piece of matching yarn from another ball or the centre of the ball. For DK yarn and a 4mm hook, allow approx 5cm for each chain, plus 10cm for each end. For our practise piece, we’re adding 5 chains in order to add 5 stitches to the end of the row, so cut a piece of yarn approx 45cm. I’m using a contrasting yarn colour so you can see it easily. Now join this piece of yarn to the top of the last stitch on the previous row, using your preferred technique. Here’s my favourite method: make a slipknot in the small piece of yarn and place it on the hook. Insert the hook into the top of the last stitch on the previous row and yrh…
Step 3 …pull the yrh loop through the stitch and the slipknot. This joins the yarn securely in place and gives you a loop to work with. Step 4 Now make your extra chains using the small piece of yarn – make 1 chain for each extra stitch you want to add to the end of the row. We’ll add 5 chains in our example. Fasten off the working loop.
Step 5 Return your hook to the original marked working loop – you can remove the stitch marker.
Step 6 Now you’ll be ready to add your new stitches by working one stitch into each chain you just made. You will have added 5 stitches to the end of the row! Continue as instructed in your pattern.
Tip If you’re interested in different methods, try the Long Stitch technique – this is where you make slightly longer stitches than your stitch pattern, working each one into the strands of the stitch near the base, which acts like a mock chain. Or if you’re familiar with the Foundation Row technique, try that. These two methods only work with plain stitch patterns, but they are quick and don’t involve joining extra yarn.