How to Knit German Short Rows

Learn to knit these simple German short rows in garter stitch with this quick and easy tutorial!

By: Heidi Gustad for allfreeknitting.com

Whether you're knitting socks, doing intricate shaping on a hat, or any other kind of pattern that requires you to turn your fabric slightly for shaping, there's a good chance you're going to come across German short rows in your time as a knitter. Luckily for you, we've put together this handy video that demystifies this spectacular short row technique.

German short rows can really help to add some space to your fabric, which makes them particularly useful for certain sweater patterns, as well as socks or slippers, and even bags. Knowing this stitch can help you modify your favorite patterns with that extra space exactly where you need it. No matter what you are using this stitch for you are definitely going to be able to master it with the help of this knitting video!

Step 1

Cast on the amount of stitches your pattern calls for.

Step 2

Work 1 stitch past the center using the garter stitch.

Pro Tip: Remeber when you're working short rows to be very aware of your stitch count. If you mess up your stitch count the size and dimensions of your projects will not be what the designer intended.

Step 3

Turn your work even though there are still unworked stitches on your needle. Slip the first stitch from the left needle to the right.

Step 4

With your working yarn toward you, move it to the back of your work.

Step 5

Knit your stitches until your pattern tells you to turn your work again.

Step 6

Repeat step 4.

Step 7

Knit the plain stitch that is before the open stitch you just previously created. Work the open stitch as one if though it appears as two loops on your needle, and knit again until your pattern tells you to turn your work.

Step 8

Repeat step 6-7.

Step 9

Continue this until you either run out of stitches (as directed by the pattern), or until your pattern tells you to finish the row.

Bonus Tips for Working German Short Rows

Cast on the amount your pattern calls for again.
Just like before work 1 stitch past the center.
Turn your work to the wrong side, slip that first stitch keeping the yarn toward you.
Loop your yarn over to the back opening up that stitch. Except now, bring that yarn back to the front between your needles and pearl a couple of stitches.
Turn your work, and bring your yarn to the front between your needles. Slip that first stitch.
Loop your yarn around to open up that stitch and then bring it back. Now, with your yarn in back knit until you reach that previously created open stitch, knit as if they are one, and knit as many past as your pattern calls for.
Turn your work and repeat steps 5-6, except you are going to bring your yarn to the front and pearl instead of knit.