how to loosen knitting stitches?

Question

i am knitting a scarf but i made the stitches too tight and not it is curling. i corrected the new stitches, but how do i get rid of the curl? i am using two colors just so you know so i cant just go back one by one and losen the whole thing. thanks.

Answer 1

If you are using "stockingnette" (knitting one row, pearling the second row)stitch, it will curl anyway. Scarves are best knit knitting all rows. The best thing to correct it is to pull out all your stitches and start over. I know it sounds awful, but you will be happier with the results. I have ripped out numerous projects because I didn't like how it was turning out, especially with the cost of some yarns.

I have been knitting for over 25 years.

Answer 2

I agree...you might want to consider pulling it out and starting over. For me it is a matter of doing the best I can and the end product to be proud of. If it is too tight but you can easily slide the stitches on the needle then more than likely you are using too small of needles for the weight of yarn you are using...besides if you are knitting one row then purling one row - it will curl naturally anyway. A hint for this...knit 5-7 stitches then do stockinette stitch over to the last 5-7 stitches and just always knit the first and last 5-7 stitches...this gives it a border and will usually prevent the curling effect. Also you will want to knit the first and last 5-10 rows too. Are you fair isle knitting and changing colors within the row OR are you using double yarn for each stitch? Either way to stop it from tangling either have a safe place to unravel the yarn or immediately start rolling a ball with both yarns together as you unravel...A major thing to learn to do with your projects is a gauge...a good gauge sample would have showed you it was going to curl or be too tight for the needles...as much as I hate doing that stupid gauge..it really is so important! End result...do you want a finished product that looks handmade or looks professional with customer colors? There is a difference! Happy knitting! :-)

Answer 3

Don't start over, add a border. Add some rounds of single & double crochet, or pick up stitches on the edges and add an inch or more of seed stitch or garter stitch. Whatever border you choose, make sure it's a stitch pattern that doesn't curl.