A beautiful edge can make all the difference in a knitted garment, and the tubular cast-on and bind-off are among the best techniques for creating a clean, professional and beautifully finished rib.

They may look tricky at first, and getting a tubular edge that stays in shape without flaring out isn’t always easy. But no panic! Once you understand a few key steps and tricks, the whole process becomes much more straightforward.

What we’ll work on:
• A wonderful provisional cast-on: We’ll start by learning a simple and very useful provisional cast-on. It will give us the perfect starting point for our tubular edge, and it’s also a great technique to have in your knitting toolbox for many other projects!
• Tubular cast-on: We’ll go through the technique step by step and learn how to create a neat, elastic edge that keeps its shape.
• Getting the perfect edge: We’ll look at the little details that make a big difference, especially how to prevent your tubular cast-on from becoming too loose or flaring out.
• Tubular bind-off: We’ll also work on the matching tubular bind-off, using a tapestry needle to create a smooth and beautifully finished edge.
• 1x1 and 2x2 ribbing: Tubular techniques are most commonly associated with 1x1 rib, but what about 2x2 rib? We’ll look at how to adapt both the tubular cast-on and bind-off for 2x2 ribbing, so you can use these beautiful edges in an even wider range of projects.
• Where to use them: These techniques are perfect for creating polished, elastic edges on hems, neckbands and cuffs.
• Let’s practice! During the class, we’ll make a swatch in 1x1 rib, starting with our provisional cast-on and working through the tubular cast-on, then finishing with a tubular bind-off. We’ll also explore how to apply these techniques to 2x2 ribbing.

By the end of the workshop, what may have seemed like a complicated technique will feel much more manageable. You’ll leave with a provisional cast-on, tubular cast-on and tubular bind-off in your knitting toolbox, ready to create beautiful edges in both 1x1 and 2x2 ribbing!

Technique requirements: Knit, purl, basic cast-on and bind-off techniques, and basic finishing skills.
 

None

• Waste yarn, preferably thinner than the yarn used for your swatch and in a contrasting color.

• Yarn for your ribbed swatch, DK or worsted weight will work perfectly.

• Two pairs of circular needles, in a size suitable for your chosen yarn.

• Crochet hook, in a size suitable for the yarn you’ll use for the ribbing.

• Tapestry needle, for working the tubular bind-off.

• Scissors.

• Pen and paper, to take notes and write down all the little tricks you’ll learn during the class!
 

Reminder: Please print any handout(s) prior to class and bring it with you.