We like easy techniques, creating textures and effects that can be done in a snap. Today we are going to teach you how to weave yarn through knitted fabrics. With this technique you will be able to create designs on the fabric, that look like tartan without having to use several balls of yarn when you are knitting. Spoiler: it looks unique on sweaters 😊
We are going to use the following materials for this step-by-step tutorial: skeins of our Sparkling Cotton yarn and a pair of size 8 (5 mm) beechwood knitting needles. We also used one of our tapestry needles.
We started by knitting a small swatch in garter stitch as our base (here is a link for you) so you can see how it is done.
Thread the tapestry needle with a length of yarn in a color that contrasts with the color we used for our swatch.
As you can see in the image above: locate the stitch where you will insert the tapestry needle.
To achieve a “tartan” effect, we will insert the tapestry needle into the fabric alternating under and over the stitches as we go up through the rows of the fabric.
We will continue to weave our yarn over and under stitches until we reach the top of the fabric. It is very important not to pull the yarn too tightly, or the fabric will lose its elasticity. We recommend laying your work on a flat surface and adjusting the length of the strand of yarn.
It is a good idea to fasten the end of the yarn on the wrong side of your work to secure the yarn so that it does not slip.
Repeat the steps above with the remaining strands of yarn that you want to add to your fabric.
That was easy, wasn’t it? With this technique you will be able to create incredible textures in your fabrics without having to use two colors as you knit. We separated our strands of yarn evenly across the fabric, but if you vary the distance between them, you can create very interesting effects. We look forward to seeing your projects using this new technique through the hashtag #weareknitters on social media 😊
