Knit Now issue 149 features a gorgeous shawl that uses elongated stitches, so we asked Debbie Tomkies to walk us through it!

Elongated stitches are an interesting way to add bold, open textures. They create light fabrics and look particularly interesting worked in textured yarns. It is also fun to experiment with combinations of plain yarn for the garter stitch sections and textured for the elongated stitches. Block elongated stitch patterns carefully to ensure an even finish.

Set-up for both right & left cross (k4e)

The set-up for both the right and left cross is the same and is worked as follows:

  1. Knit to the point where the elongated stitch is to be made. Insert RH needle into next stitch and wrap the yarn around the needle 4 times. Without allowing the wraps to come off, complete the stitch as normal. Repeat this 8 times. Your needle will look very full but don’t panic!
  1. On the next row, when you reach the crossed stitches, slip the 8 elongated stitches onto the RH needle, carefully allowing the extra wraps to drop as you do so.

Right Cross (P4/4Re)

Work steps 1-2 (above).
5R. Use LH needle to lift first 4 stitches over next 4 stitches and back onto LH needle. This creates the cross.

6R. Being careful not to twist, pass the 4 elongated stitches still on RH needle back onto LH
needle. Knit the 8 elongated stitches, making sure to work them in the correct order.

Left Cross (P4/4Le)

Work steps 1-2 (above).

5L. Insert LH needle into elongated stitches from L to R and slip all 8 stitches back as one to
LH needle (this keeps the stitches in order).

6L. Using tip of RH needle, pass last 4 stitches as one over first 4, holding them on RH
needle. Carefully transfer the 4 elongated stitches on the RH needle back onto the LH needle. Knit the 8 elongated stitches, making sure to work them in the correct order.

This pattern is featured in Knit Now issue 149.
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