A lot of you are new to knotions – welcome! And even for those of you have have been around for a while, a little reminder never hurt.

We have some excellent articles on short rows that you might want to check out:

• What short rows do (and why you might use them) – start here if you’re new to short rows
• How to calculate short rows – gives you a way to calculate them to add for bust shaping (also works for other areas too)
• How to knit short rows (both knit and purl sides) – a wrap and turn technique
• Adding a mini-gusset to the heel of a sock – add a few rows to a short row heel for better fit. Don’t dismiss the short row heel without considering the mini-gusset. It makes all the difference.

There are lots of patterns that use short rows. Here are a few from knotions:

• Bella socks – short row heel with mini-gusset. Great for that funky skein of sock yarn you just had to buy (it’s ok – we all have them). Works with Noro sock yarn too (that’s what we used in the sample).
• Inis Oírr shawl/blanket – short rows in the border make a beautiful mitered corner and continuous cables around the edge. Don’t forget to register for the KAL and Contest.
• Fool’s Gold hat – fun jester-shape for both kids and adults. Wear it all the time or use it around Halloween.
• Wave cowls – great for a solid or gradient yarn. Quick knit with great results.
• Casual Bootcut pants – don’t ignore this one without a peek. The short rows help shape the crotch (See? I told you – more than just bust shaping.)

Short rows really aren’t hard (we promise). If you’re new to them, try them out on a swatch or with some scrap yarn. You’ll be surprised at how much they can do. And once you’re done, check out one of the patterns above