Technique:

Beaded Knitting v1

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I’m sure if you’ve been to this blog at all before you’re probably aware that I love both beads and knitting. This is, however, my first time really combining them. I’ll admit that the beaded knitting I’ve seen before wasn’t really aesthetically pleasing to me, but since so much of what we’re trying to do here is to update techniques that look a little dated this project was overdue. This is one way of combining them, and I think it looks really beautiful.

Beaded Knitting v1

Beaded Knitting v1

This sample is worked with #10 crochet cotton, 10/0 seed beads, and size 2 (US) needles.

 

String all of the beads you plan to use ahead of time. Cast on like usual.

 


 

Purl Side:

 

It is much easier to see the mechanics of what’s going on here on the purl side of the work, so I’m showing that first.

Beaded Knitting v1

I included a couple selvedge stitches at the edge, that’s optional. The technique is very simple – slide one bead up to the last stitch you purled.

Beaded Knitting v1

Purl the next stitch, making sure that bead lands between the stitches. If the bead gets into the loop of the stitch it won’t settle into the right place.

Beaded Knitting v1

Beaded Knitting v1

Repeat the same thing for every stitch. Slide a bead up.

Beaded Knitting v1

Purl the next stitch, making sure the bead stays outside of the stitch loop.

Beaded Knitting v1


 

Knit Side:

 

On this side you’re doing the same thing but with knit stitches.

Beaded Knitting v1

Slide a bead up.

Beaded Knitting v1

Make sure the bead stays outside of the loop, and knit the next stitch.

Beaded Knitting v1

You can see the bead settled between the knit stitches around it.

Beaded Knitting v1

Slide up a bead.

Beaded Knitting v1

Knit the next stitch. Repeat as desired.

Beaded Knitting v1

 

The technique really is that simple. After you’ve worked a few rows the beads will easily settle into the gaps between the actual stitches, creating neat vertical rows in the knitting. You can use it as an all-over like this, or just add a few rows for a more subtle highlight. Both the knit are purl side are attractive, and what you use depends on your application.

Beaded Knitting v1

Beaded Knitting v1