Why a double yarn over creates a hole you can see from space
In short: In the world of lace knitting, a double yarn over is the ultimate architectural move. It creates dramatic, intentional openings in a fabric, but it requires a specific technical maneuver to ensure the stitches don't unravel. It is the difference between a subtle texture and a bold, structural statement.
The double yarn over is a foundational technique in lace knitting, used to create large, prominent holes in a garment's fabric. Unlike a standard yarn over, which adds a single loop of yarn to the needle, the double yarn over involves wrapping the yarn around the right-hand needle twice. This creates two wraps, which effectively yields two stitches in the final count. Because of this, patterns often alternate these large openings with rows of single yarn overs to balance the structural integrity of the piece.
Executing the move requires precise timing. In a typical sequence, a knitter might work a decrease—such as knitting two together—immediately before the double yarn over. This is followed by a subsequent decrease, like a slip slip knit, to frame the new stitches. The goal is to trap the two wraps between these decreases, ensuring the lace motif, such as a leaf or flame shape, maintains its intended geometry without losing its shape.
The most complex part of the technique occurs when working the back of the row. Because the double yarn over creates a 'big hole,' the knitter cannot simply purl across. Instead, they must perform a specific alternating sequence—such as knitting one and purling one—into the same hole. This 'loose and crazy' feeling is a normal part of the process. The key rule for any pattern using this technique is to remember that the double yarn over always yields two stitches, allowing the knitter to navigate the complex transitions of the lace.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Do a Double Yarn Over | Knitting
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