Using Edge Stitches the Right Way – Which Edge Works Best for Which Project?

Edge stitches are like good shoes.
You don't always notice them right away – but if they're wrong, you feel it with every step.

In my previous blog post "Knitting Edge Stitches Like a Pro – Clean, Even, Beautiful"

I showed you the most common edge stitch techniques and how to knit them.

Today, we go one step further and answer the question I get far more often in practice:

🔍 Edge Stitches Are a Decision – Not a Habit

For a long time, I chose edge stitches intuitively.
Today, I choose them deliberately, because the edge determines:

• whether your project keeps its shape

• how easy it is to pick up stitches or seam pieces together

• whether edges curl, stretch, or wave

• and whether your knitting feels finished or just… almost

1️⃣ Choosing Edge Stitches by Project Type – Very Specifically

🧥 Cardigans, Jackets & Button Bands

Goal: stability and clean structure
My clear recommendation:

👉 Garter stitch edge
(first and last stitch of every row knit)
or
👉 Double edge stitch
(two edge stitches worked consistently)

Why?

• holds its shape

• stretches less over time

• ideal for sewing and button bands

• reliable for garments that need structure

❌ Less suitable:

• simple slipped-edge chains → often too soft

• slip-stitch edges → uneven when sewing

🧠 Lesson learned:
A pretty edge is useless if the front band loses its shape after a few wears.

🧣 Shawls & Scarves

Here, the edge is visible – but should be chosen intentionally.

👉 Chain edge (slipped edge stitch)

• clean, classic lines

• great for stockinette-based shawls

👉 I-cord edge

• bold, modern finish

• perfect for simple stitch patterns

• less ideal for very delicate lace

👉 Garter stitch edge

• soft, textile look

• especially nice with cozy yarns

💡 Pro tip:
If the stitch pattern is strong, the edge should stay calm.

🧵 Pieces That Will Be Seamed

Goal: clean seams and easy finishing

👉 Simple, consistently worked edge stitch (no slipping)

Why?

• clear stitch definition

• easy to find seam points

• clean, even joins

❌ Avoid:

• slip-stitch edges → harder to sew evenly

• I-cord edges → unnecessarily bulky for seams

🧶 From experience:
The simpler the edge, the cleaner the seam.

🧶 Picking Up Stitches (Sleeves, Button Bands, Collars)

👉 Chain edge or firm garter stitch edge

Why?

• visible structure

• evenly spaced pickup points

• less guesswork

💡 Rule of thumb:
If you plan to pick up stitches, you need structure, not decoration.

2️⃣ Edge Stitches & Yarn Choice – Practical Guidelines

Not every edge stitch behaves the same with every fiber.

• Wool & Merino:
  chain edges and garter edges work reliably

• Cotton & Linen:
  choose firmer edges – avoid loose slip stitches

• Rustic yarns (tweed, alpaca):
  garter or double edges add stability

🧠 Hard-earned truth:
What works beautifully with wool can stretch mercilessly with cotton.

3️⃣ Common Edge Stitch Myths (I Fell for Them Too)

• "One edge stitch works for everything."

• "Slipping stitches always looks neater."

• "Blocking will fix it."

Unfortunately… no.
The edge is part of the construction, not an afterthought.

4️⃣ My Personal Rule of Thumb

I always choose my edge stitch based on what will happen to the edge later – not based on the stitch pattern.

Since following this rule, I unravel far less.
And my finished projects feel calmer, sturdier, and more professional.

5️⃣ Mini Decision Guide (Save This!)

✔ Will it be seamed? → simple, stable edge stitch
✔ Will the edge remain visible? → chain edge or I-cord
✔ Does it need stability? → garter or double edge
✔ Will you pick up stitches? → structured edge stitch

✨ My Final Thoughts:

Edge stitches are not a minor detail.
They are planning, experience – and sometimes the difference between frustration and joy.

Choose them consciously, and your knitting will not only look better,
but feel thoughtful, stable, and complete.

👋 Which projects give you trouble when it comes to edges? 
Let me know – this might become the next practical post.  😊

#strickenimtrend #knittingtips #edgestitches #knittingtechniques #handknit

Be happy! 

All my love,
Kathrin ☀️🧶