nærflet

Nærflet is a term originating from Danish that describes a knitting technique. It is essentially a form of dropped stitch knitting where a stitch is deliberately dropped to create a decorative hole or ladder effect in the fabric. This is achieved by intentionally not picking up a stitch from the previous row, allowing it to unravel or "flet" downwards. The effect can be subtle or pronounced depending on how many stitches are dropped and how far they are allowed to unravel.

The technique is often used to add visual interest and texture to knitted garments. It can be incorporated into a variety of projects, from scarves and shawls to sweaters and accessories. Nærflet can be worked either intentionally within a pattern or occur as a result of an accidental dropped stitch that is then intentionally left to create the desired aesthetic. When deliberately implemented, the knitter carefully controls where and how many stitches are dropped to achieve a specific design outcome. This can involve creating rows of ladder-like holes or more sporadic, scattered dropped stitches. The yarn tension and the type of yarn used can also influence the final appearance of the nærflet effect.