What is Modular Knitting?
As the name suggests, modular knitting involves making small pieces of knitted fabric (the modules) which are then joined together to make a larger item. However, there is no need to be alarmed that this may involve sewing together hundreds of squares; the pieces are joined as they are knitted.
How to Work Modular Knitting.
The instructions given are for traditional garter stitch squares, but these can be viewed as merely a stepping stone to other stitch variations. Be careful to check your tension, however, as different stitch patterns may cause your squares to be misshapen.
Instructions
- Cast on an odd number of stitches and knit one row, purling the last stitch.
- 2nd and every even numbered row: sl1, K to 1 st before the centre stitch, sl1, K2. tog, psso. k to the last stitch, p1.
- 3rd and every odd number row: sl1, k to last stitch, p1.
- Continue working in this way until you have only one stitch left.
- Pick up stitches down the side of the square just worked.
- If you pick up 1 stitch in each slipped stitch at the end of a row, you should end up half the number of stitches needed for the first row or your new square. Cast on the remaining stitches needed to make up to your original number and work the second square in the same way as the first. For example, if your first square started with 41 sts, you would pick up 20 stitches down the side (which with the one on the needle, makes 21). Cast on another 20 stitches to work your second square the same size as the first.
Variations
Modular knitting lends itself to colour work, as mitred stripes and solid blocks can be added to your design with minimal effort.
It is also possible to amend the size of your squares. By picking up stitches from the side of two blocks, or half a block, it is possible to create different patterns and designs. Simply remember to follow the principle of an odd number of stitches with the decrease in the middle.
Limitations
Because of the structure of the knitted pieces, modular knitting does not easily lend itself to sophisticated shaping for garments. It does, however, make a very interesting fabric for flat pieces such as scarves and blankets.
In conclusion, modular knitting is within the grasp of the beginner knitter but has enough scope for variation to interest those with more experience. It can be worked on a pair of short needles, which makes it portable and provides a great way to experiment with colour.
Lesley Arnold-Hopkins - Lesley Arnold-Hopkins is a freelance writer whose work and hobbies have given her areas of expertise in a number of fields. She has an ...
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