When you complete the last row of your pattern you will begin to bind off just as if you were continuing the pattern. If you are using a pattern without a definite end you would start casting off when you have knitted until you have at least enough yarn to make about three times the length of a row. You’ll often see patterns that say “bind off in pattern,” meaning that you knit the knits and purl the purls just like you were doing in the body of the project. Binding off works the same no matter what stitch you’re using.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Binding Off
Alternatively, some knitters like to work until they have two stitches on the left-hand needle, knit those two stitches together, then finish as usual. This makes for a bind-off that looks a little more uniform across the top, rather than leaving a loose stitch hanging at the end. Wear or use your new knitted item proudly.
When to Bind Off
Binding off is one of the most common ways to end a project but that’s not the only time to use this technique. It’s also used to help shape your project. You’ll often find this stitch used for things like baby booties when forming the ankle part of the bootie. There are other stitches you can use to finish your projects but binding off is one of the simplest. With this stitch, you’ll be able to finish any project and add some shape to others.
