Casting onto a row that has already been knitted is called picking up stitches. This technique can be used to lengthen or add onto a knitted piece, change the direction of the fabric, or add textural interest to the piece, among other uses.
Make sure you select the right method for picking up stitches. Depending on whether you are picking up stitches on a row or a selvage, you will need to pick up a different number of stitches to ensure that the work lies flat.
From the Cast-on Row or Cast-off Row
1Understand that if you are picking up stitches from the cast-on row or cast-off row (the first or last row of knitted work), the top of the row will consist of slip stitches. This will look like a row of knit stitches along the entire row.
2Hold the yarn at the back of the work and slip your needle through the front and back of the "knit" stitch.
3Knit the stitch.
4Do this for every slipped stitch across the top or bottom of the work, unless directed otherwise.
From the Selvedge
1Understand that if you are picking up stitches from the selvedge, or the edge created by the first stitch and last stitch of each row, you will be given the number of stitches to pick up. You will need to space them evenly along the edge.
2Place stitch holders at even intervals along the edge, and divide the number of stitches you need to pick up by the number of markers. This gives you a point of references to help ensure that your picked up stitches are evenly spaced.
3Working one stitch in from the edge, or where the stitches are neater, insert your needle through one leg of the stitch, and knit into that loop. You have picked up one stitch.
4Continue in this manner along your entire edge, spacing your stitches evenly.
Sources and Citations
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