How to ....... loop knitting

My new little friend is Loopy Sheep.  I knitted my sheep by knitting single loops to make a fluffy body.

If you would like to make your own Loopy Sheep, the pattern is available from my pattern stores on Etsy, Folksy and Ravelry, and I have a pdf copy of this tutorial on my “free for you” page too.

Knitting loops does need a little patience, and there seem to be quite a few techniques.  So I thought I would share the one I was taught with you.  This is to knit a single loop worked on the right side of the fabric.  (Please note, these directions are for right-handed knitters.)

STEP 1:  Work to the position of the loop in your pattern.  Knit into the next stitch, but do not allow the stitch to fall off the needle.

Step 1 – Knit into the stitch but do not allow to fall off the needle

STEP 2: Bring the working yarn to the front between the two needles.

Step 2 – Bring the working yarn forward

STEP 3:  Place your thumb on the working yarn, and wrap the yarn around and over the top of your thumb, and back between the two needles.  (Next time I do a tutorial I will have a proper manicure first!!)

Step 3 – Wrap the yarn over your thumb

STEP 4:  Keeping the yarn wrapped around your thumb, knit into the same stitch again.

Step 4 – Knit into the same stitch again

STEP 5:  Allow this stitch to fall off the needle, and the loop to fall off your thumb.  You now have two new stitches and a loop on the right hand needle.

Step 5 – The two new stitches and loop

STEP 6:  Insert the left needle into the front of the two stitches on the right needle, and knit together.

Step 6 – Knit the two stitches together

And now you have finished your loop.

Knitted loops

If you do make toys with loops, please bear in mind that because of the nature of the knitted fabric the toys would not be suitable for babies or very young children.  Knitted loops can be used to give texture to collars or cuffs on garments.  I would love to have the patience to make a big loopy cushion cover for my sofa!

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