Väntpistikud

Väntpistikud, also known as "waiting stitches" or "waiting loops," are a technique used in knitting and crochet to create a temporary loop of yarn that can be picked up later to continue a project. This method is particularly useful when working on garments or projects where the stitches need to be held for an extended period before being incorporated into the main fabric.

The process involves knitting or crocheting a row of stitches that are not fully secured to the work. Instead, the yarn is left attached to the needle or hook but not knitted or crocheted into the fabric. These loops are then left to "wait" until the knitter or crocheter is ready to join them back into the work. This technique is often employed when working on sleeves, necklines, or other areas where the stitches need to be set aside temporarily.

In knitting, waiting stitches are typically created by slipping stitches onto a cable needle or a separate holder, leaving the yarn tail attached but not working into the stitches. When ready to proceed, the stitches are picked up and worked into the main fabric. Similarly, in crochet, waiting loops can be created by leaving a section of stitches unworked and securing them with a safety pin or by placing them on a stitch marker.

This technique helps maintain the integrity of the stitches and prevents them from unraveling or getting lost. It is particularly useful for beginners or for projects that require precise stitch placement, such as lacework or intricate patterns. By using waiting stitches, knitters and crocheters can work on different sections of a project without having to carry multiple yarn tails or risk losing stitches.