How to Knit in the Front and Back

Do you like exploring different methods of increase in knitting? One technique is KFB, which means an increase in the number of stitches while knitting in the front and back. It is one of the easiest techniques to increase the number of stitches in the project. This technique will convert one stitch into two with knitting needles. It might be confusing in the beginning but don’t worry; with regular practice, it will become easier. This blog will guide you on using the technique and achieve the best result.

Are you ready to learn this technique? Yes, great!

When do you use the Knit Front and Back Technique (KFB)?

The technique is useful when you want to expand the width of the project, like shawls and sweaters. It is easy to perform, which results in an invisible increase in stitches with minimal distortion in the fabric.

The technique is mostly used in garment shaping, especially in the following projects:

• One way is in a raglan sweater; it helps to add stitches at the shoulder to shape the garment.
• For increasing the width of the shawl, the KFB technique is perfect.
• Amigurumi and Toys where you need to expand the shape and dimensions.

Tools required for the KFB technique

When starting the knit and the front-back technique, ensure you have the right tools. Double-pointed needles are a good option when working on small projects. You can use any yarn type, depending on the project you are working with.

Step-by-step instructions for knitting in the front and the back

Let’s work on the technique and see how useful it is:

Step 1:  Start with the knit stitch

• To start the KFB process, first create a knit stitch, but don’t slide the stitch off the left-hand needle.

Step 2:  Knit the second stitch

• Now, you have one stitch on the right needle; however, the old stitch is still on the left. Then, knit into the back of the old stitch on the left-hand needle. It is made in the same way that you want to make a stitch on the front part of the loop.

Step 3: Finishing the KFB Stitch

• You can see two stitches on the right-hand needle. To finish the KFB technique, slide the original stitch off the left hand; now, increase one stitch.
• After finishing the increase, keep knitting as per instructions. If you increase on one side, you will get a tilt piece.

Keep in mind when working on larger projects, circular needles are the best option because they can easily handle growing stitches like in hats, sweaters, and booties.

How do you Identify the KFB stitch?

After completing the KFB stitch pattern, you will notice a small bump or bar below the new stitches. This is the part of the knit in the front and the back. It blends well with the surrounding fabric.

What are the pros and cons of KFB?

Pros of KFB

• It is easy and quick for beginners to pick up.
• The KFB method is less noticeable than other yarn-over methods.
• One of the advantages of this method is that you won’t see holes and gaps.

Cons of KFB

• The small bar created in KFB is easily noticeable in some projects. Due to this, some knitters prefer another method of increase.

When to avoid the KFB technique?

KFB is a versatile method when working on lace projects; it’s not the best option because you will easily notice small bumps. Hence, some knitters explore other increase methods. For example, if you are working on the stockinette or garter stitch, the KFB pattern is more visible compared to the ribbing, moss, and seed.

Tips/Suggestions for Knitting in the Front and Back

• If you are a beginner, practice on the swatch before incorporating the KFB technique into the final project.
• When working on the increase method, use stitch markers to track where the KFB stitches should be placed.
• Keep an eye on the tension; if your stitches are too tight, inserting the needle into the back loop is difficult, especially for beginners.

 Are you ready with yarn and knitting needle sets?

Knitting in the front and the back is one of the important techniques that helps build your knitting skills and opens the doors to more complex projects. Once you have confidence, you will easily add stitches without disturbing the knitting flow.

Thanksgiving home decor ideas- 5 easy knitting projects you can make

Turkey season is here! Thanksgiving is a lovely time to gather and enjoy the season with your loved ones, enjoy hearty meals, and reflect on the year’s blessings. Remember to celebrate this festive season by creating cozy, handmade decorations using knitting needles. Once you become a master in knitting, you can DIY your own festive decoration projects. Knit home décor items using knitting needles add a personal and warm touch to your home, making your Thanksgiving celebrations even more special and amazing. In this guide, utilize the idea and create a beautiful project for Thanksgiving.

Here are some five innovative project ideas you can create.

1. Pumpkin shape coaster

A coaster is a small flat piece that is used to keep items. This is an essential item during gatherings, and do you know adding a seasonal twist makes them even more delightful? Knitted pumpkin coasters are a fun and easy project, perfect for beginners. You can use colorful yarns to make it more beautiful and innovative.

Worsted-weight yarn, especially (orange, yellow, green), and needle size of 6-8 (4-5 mm) with knitting accessories such as tapestry, finishing, and scissors.

How to create

Step 1: Cast on 25 stitches.

Step 2: Next, knit in garter stitch for 20 rows.

Step 3: Give the shape of a pumpkin form by adding increases and decreases as needed.

Step 4: Add a small i-cord or stitched stalk in green, to create a stem.

It will act as cute decorations for your Thanksgiving dinner setup. Great!

2. Thanksgiving knitted garland

A garland is an item that you can knit and create a decorative item. Draped over the mantel, hung on walls, or even laid across your dining table as a centerpiece. Of course, you can feature autumn leaves, pumpkins, or turkeys—all knitted. Moreover, mix and match shapes, sizes, and colors to create a personalized look.

You can use any yarn of your choice and a knitting needle size of 6-7 (4 mm).

How to create

• First, knit several small leaves, pumpkins, and turkey shapes.
• Check the patterns that can be found easily online.
• Use different autumn colors for the leaves and warm tones
• Once you are ready with all your pieces, string them together with yarn or twine to complete your garland.

Hang your knitted garland across your windows or fireplace to bring warmth and coziness. You can even use it for Christmas festive.

3. Knit table runner for Thanksgiving

A great way to transform your dining table into a homemade knitted table runner. This project is a bit more time-consuming, but you will be rewarded for your hard work as it becomes a central piece of your Thanksgiving decor. You can add complex stitches, like basket weave or seed patterns, or keep it simple. You can use chunky-weight yarn and a knitting needle size of 10 (6 mm).

How to create

• For this pattern cast on about 80-100 stitches; however, it depends on the width of your table.
• Knit in stockinette or basket weave stitch for a beautiful look.
• Add a garter stitch at the end.

The table runner adds warmth and charm to your table, serving as the perfect base for your Thanksgiving centerpiece.

4. Themed knit pillow

Do you want to make cozy throw pillows? Especially when they match the season. For Thanksgiving, you can knit pillow covers featuring motifs such as pumpkins, leaves, or simple fall colors. These pillows are great for your living room or dining area. The bulky or worsted-weight yarn is a good choice for making pillows and a size of 9 (5.5 mm) knitting needles.

How to create

Step 1: Cast on enough stitches to match the width.

Step 2: Choose any stitch pattern, which you are comfortable such as stockinette, or garter stitch.

Step 3: Then, sew the pieces from the three sides, insert the pillow, and close the final side using a tapestry needle.

Customize the pillow with fall-themed such as knitted leaves or pumpkins.

5. Turkey Napkin Rings

Let's give an extra festive touch at the dinner table; knitted turkey napkin rings are a quick and easy way to make your table settings special. These small projects can be customized in size, and color, and add a cute element to your table decor.

You can experiment with worsted-weight yarn due to its durability and size of 6-8 (4-5 mm) knitting needles.

How to create

Step 1: Cast on at least 20 stitches and knit a garter stitch.

Step 2: Then cast off and sew the ends together to form the ring.

Step 3: Next, create a small turkey with a basic circle shape for the body and add wings, a beak, and a little snood with contrasting colors.

Step 4: At the end, attach the knitted turkey to the ring.

Are you ready to explore these project ideas?

Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to decorate your home and show off your knitting skills! Whether you're making pumpkin coasters or a festive table runner, these simple knitting projects will help you create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your gathering. Plus, handmade items add a personal touch to your home. Make these projects and enjoy creating beautiful decorations for the Thanksgiving season!