central checkered area = steek |
Steeking is a very useful technique for colour-patterned knitting because it means the knitter never needs to do pesky purling in the main pattern. Garments are knitted as tubes and then cut to create armholes and necklines, or front openings for waistcoats, cardigans or jackets. It is a part of the knitting traditions of many countries. The most terrifying thing about it for first-time steekers is that you have to cut the beautiful piece of patterned fabric that you have spent ages creating. Yes, CUT it, really, with scissors!
There seem to be a number of methods and lots of advice available in books and on the internet for those brave/mad enough to want to try it. I know some people like to follow video tutorials on you tube, but my most useful sources have been Elizabeth Zimmerman's books and Eunny Chang's tutorial series.
My first steeking experience was with a cardigan knitted in Norwegian wool to a design by Solveig Hisdal (Poetry in Stitches). Once the fabric was cut I followed the instructions as given, which produced very neat little facings to cover the cut ends:
It was a success, and gave me the courage to try out other methods and garments.
Next, a Fair Isle slipover from Folk Vests (Interweave Knits) by Cheryl Oberle , where once cut and machine-sewn the steeks just seem to stay firm even though visible.
I had thought about covering them with sewn-on binding or tape, but they don't appear to need it even after wearing. This experience bears out Eunny's comments that some Shetlanders don't even bother reinforcing because the wool holds together without it. Fine for real Shetland wool then, but don't try it with anything less.
Back to the blanket. Kate's pattern tells us to use the crochet reinforcement method for this. I tried it thus:
and promptly ripped the crochet out. I am with EZ on this - knitting and crochet really don't mix! Back to the machine sewing method:
and all's well again. Now for the (long) border....
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