This stitch may be a bit more complex than some other stitches, but it definitely very doable and only combines a few basic knitting stitches.
How to Make the Cinch Stitch
Note that no stitch count is changed. You start working 7 stitches and you end with 7 stitches. It does create 2 rows of knitting, but since you’re also working decreases and slipping stitches, the added length is negligible.
What you do in these 4 steps create a pretty effect.
Step 1
Ssk,
slip 3 stitches together all at once (as if to k3tog),
k2tog.
You now have 5 stitches on the right needle. Note that I have 7 because I started with 2 stitches on my right needle.
Step 2
Pass the first stitch on right needle over the following four (take the ‘ssk’ stitch and pass it over the slipped stitches and the ‘k2tog’ stitches).
You now have 4 stitches on the right needle.
Step 3
Return the 4 stitches back to left needle.
I actually do Steps 2 and 3 in the reverse order – I do Step 3 first and then I do Step 2. Either way is fine, as long as you have 4 stitches on the left needle when you’re done.
Step 4
[K1, yo] three times, k1
7 stitches on the right needle. Again, there are 9 stitches on mine because I started with 2 stitches.
See? No stitch count change, but these 7 stitches have been manipulated and worked in such a way that they create a pretty look.
Give the Cinch Stitch a Try in this Free Pattern
The Cinch Stitch is worked intermittently in the edge of this shawl. It adds a beautiful effect and it’s really not hard! We promise.
Tutorial: 3 to 7 Increase
