Russian Bind Off
A stretchy bind off worked by knitting two stitches together through the back loop, then slipping the result back to the left needle and repeating. The result is a moderately stretchy, decorative chain.
Recommended A printable technique cheat-sheet for your knitting bag.
Method
Knit 2 stitches together through the back loop. Slip the result back to the left needle. Knit 2 together through the back loop again (the slipped stitch and the next stitch). Slip back. Repeat across.
Edge characteristics
A visible chain along the bound-off edge that lies flatter than the standard bind off and stretches more. The chain reads as a small twisted braid from the right side.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Best uses
Garter-stitch shawls (where the decorative chain matches the texture). Lace shawl edges where moderate stretch is needed. Any time the bind off is on display and a slightly decorative chain is desired.
Compared to Jeny's
Less stretchy than Jeny's Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off, but produces a more visible, decorative chain. Jeny's for hidden stretch; Russian for visible chain.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| BO | bind off |
| k2tog tbl | knit two together through the back loop |
Tips
- Use the same needle size as the body — the technique adds enough stretch on its own.
- For maximum stretch, knit each k2tog tbl with a needle one size up.
- Use Russian for visible decorative edges; Jeny's for invisible stretchy edges.
In depth
The Russian bind off creates a visible braided chain along the bound-off edge by knitting through the back loop, which twists each stitch slightly. The twist gives the chain its decorative appearance and adds modest elasticity.