Suspended Bind Off
The suspended bind off is a small modification of the standard bind off that produces an edge with about 30% more stretch. It is the easiest "stretchier" upgrade for knitters intimidated by Jeny's or sewn bind offs.
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Modification
Work the standard bind off but do not slip the lifted stitch off the left needle right away. Knit the next stitch through the first stitch on the left needle (still suspended), then drop both off together.
Why it stretches more
Holding the lifted stitch in suspension while knitting the next stitch lengthens the chain slightly with each stitch. The accumulated extra length adds up to noticeably more elasticity.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Best uses
A solid all-purpose upgrade for ribbed sweater hems, cardigan front bands, and any edge where the standard bind off pulls in too much. Easier than Jeny's for knitters new to bind-off variants.
Limitations
Less stretchy than Jeny's or the sewn bind off. For maximum elasticity (sock cuffs, lace shawl edges), reach for one of those instead.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| BO | bind off |
| k | knit |
Tips
- Use the suspended bind off as your default upgrade from the standard bind off.
- Combine with a needle one size up for ribbed bottom edges that have always pulled in.
- Practice on a swatch — the motion is small but takes a few stitches to internalise.
In depth
The suspended bind off introduces a tiny amount of extra slack into each chain stitch by suspending the lifted stitch on the left needle while working the next. The cumulative effect on a 100-stitch edge is a 30% increase in elasticity at virtually no extra time cost.