Shortrow
Shortrow is a knitting technique used to shape fabric by turning the work before a complete row is worked. By adding extra fabric only where needed, short rows create curves and darts in a variety of garments, improving fit around the bust, shoulders, waist, hips, or heel.
- Commonly used in sweaters, tops, and cardigans to shape sections such as the bust, back, or sleeves.
- Also employed in socks and baby garments to create shaping at the toe or ankle.
- Useful for creating curved hems or neckline shaping without resorting to full darts or seams.
- Wrap-and-turn (W&T): the traditional approach, where the knitter turns the work at a chosen point and
- German short rows: a variation that adjusts how turning is executed to minimize holes and tension
- Japanese short rows: another variation that aims to reduce gaps, often using a method that subtly
- Short rows add fabric only where specified, enabling precise shaping without extra fabric elsewhere.
- They can create small gaps if not executed with proper wrapping or turning, though many methods
- Patterns usually indicate the number and placement of short rows, and instructions may specify when to
- Finishing and blocking can help even out tension and hide turning points.
- Short rows have a long history in knitting and are a standard technique in shaping garments
- They are widely described in modern knitting patterns and tutorials, with several established methods to suit