Basic Nålbinding Part 2

Basic Nålbinding part 2: Make a tube by connecting to the previous row with a “F1” join

In order to join to the previous row to form your chain into a tube, you need to connect each new loop to the top edge of the previous row—just like in knitting and crochet.

The vast majority of nalbound articles are created “in the round” instead of “in the flat” like knitting and crochet. With knitting and crochet you can work back and forth to create flat squares with firm and even side edges (like a scarf or shawl). Nalbinding is not as well suited to being worked back and forth and instead works best when the two ends are joined to form a tube or circle which you then build up round by round to make a sock or mitten or cap.

Step 1: After creating 30-40 Oslo stitches your chain should be running off the back of your left thumb and held gently in your left palm. Make sure the chain is flat and not twisted like a corkscrew—if the chain is twisted when you attach the two ends together you will end up with a Möbius strip instead of a proper tube!

Step 2: Holding your left hand in the normal working position, reach your right hand over your left hand to grasp the tail end of your chain (which is running off to the left). Take the chain and form a clockwise loop with the chain so the tail end meets the working end on the back of your thumb. This is the beginning of our tube.

Step 3: Hold the two ends gently together with your left thumb and index finger—the tail end is now to the right of the working end. Pick up a loop from the previous row by inserted your needle through the front of the loop. Note: Inserting the needle through the front of one loop is an “F1” join. Inserting the needle through the back of one loop is a “B1” join. Inserting the needle through the front of 2 loops is an “F2” join; through the back of 2 loops is a “B2” join, etc...

Step 4: Next pick up the 1st loop on the back of your thumb and make an Oslo stitch.

Step 5: Repeat steps 3-4 as many times as you like so you can perfect your technique!

<< Back to Part 1