Fixing a Twisted Stitch
A twisted stitch (knit through the back loop when the pattern called for the front, or vice versa) is one of the most common knitting mistakes. Fortunately, it is also one of the easiest to fix.
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Identifying twisted stitches
A twisted stitch sits on the needle with its right leg behind the needle instead of in front. Twisted stitches in stockinette read as a small "X" rather than a clean "V" — visible on close inspection.
Fixing on the next row
When you reach the twisted stitch on the next row, slip it knitwise to the right needle (this re-mounts it correctly), then slip back to the left needle. Knit it normally. The twist is now hidden in the stitch column above and below.
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Fixing further down
For a twisted stitch many rows below the working row, drop down to the twisted stitch by laddering down the column. Untwist the stitch (slip it correctly) and ladder back up with a crochet hook.
When twists are intentional
Twisted stitches are sometimes intentional — twisted-rib patterns and Bavarian travelling stitches use intentional twists for decorative effect. Verify the pattern's intention before "fixing" what may be a deliberate twist.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| k tbl | knit through the back loop |
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
Tips
- Always verify whether a twist is intentional before "fixing" it.
- For twists discovered during the next row, just slip-and-slip-back to untwist.
- For twists many rows below, ladder down with a crochet hook.
In depth
Twisted stitches are the most common subtle knitting mistake. They often go unnoticed until blocking, when the slight irregularity in the stitch pattern becomes visible. The fix is fast and forgiving — even a twisted stitch fixed many rows later is invisible after blocking.