Every knitter should be familiar with a yarn over, a type of increase stitch that is sometimes known as a yo. This handy increase stitch can be decorative, functional, or both. Best of all, it is easy to learn and works with all kinds of yarns and both knitting and crocheting. Let’s take a look at what a yarn over is and provide a quick guide on how to do it.
Yarn over stitches
Yarn overs are a type of simple and straightforward increase stitch. They create a gap, or eyelet, in the knitted product. They are most commonly associated with lace, as they are used to create patterns; however, they can be used in knitting and crocheting with all kinds of yarns from craft specialists, such as https://www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/aran-yarn, to help with shaping.
This kind of stitch can also be paired with a decrease stitch to create a buttonhole. There are hundreds of knitting stitches out there, but the yarn over is one that should be in every knitter’s arsenal and one you should learn once you have grasped the basics
How to do a yarn over
The most common time to use a yarn over is between two knit stitches (A and B). In this instance, the yarn is wrapped around the needle between the stitches to create an extra loop. After knitting stitch A, bring the yarn to the fore so that it is between the needles, then bring it over the right needle and complete the next knitting stitch (B). A yarn over can be completed with whatever sort of yarn you use, whether you are working with Merino or Aran yarn or even with synthetic fibres. When you encounter a yarn in a knitting pattern, it may be referred to as a ‘yo’.
Now you know how to do a yarn over, why not give it a try in your next knitting or crochet project? You may want to use it for its aesthetic appeal, or you might find a practical use for this clever but simple increase stitch.