Contents:
- Yarn-unders
- Post stitches
- Filling mesh backgrounds
- Extending motifs
Yarn Unders:
You can yarn under when drawing up the first loop* of long (dc, tr, dtr) stitches for more consistent and generally tighter gauge. This is strictly optional/according to taste.
Yarn unders allow tension from the working thread to pass more easily to loops already on the hook, helping maintain gauge in Rows 1A and 1B (which tend to be loose) and while working complex ()tog stitches.
*Yarn over normally to begin st and at all other times.
Post stitches:
Work around the post or in back loop only for smoother outlines and less prominent “joints”
Work in front and back loops of all stitches until you are comfortable with the technique, except when other loops are indicated specifically (Rows 1A, 1B and some border rounds). “Both loops” is the most secure option, and both loops will give you the most consistent alignment and gauge. However:
If your outlines (Colour A) look “jagged,” or if there are distracting “joints” or loose loops where stitches intersect on front, working around the post or in back loop only [blo] can help.
Use front-post stitches to extend vertical and diagonal outlines. Use back-post or blo stitches when working into horizontal lines and knot sts. I normally work in both loops at all other times, but you should feel free to experiment!
The illustration above shows front- and back-post stitches. (Don’t worry, the difference is more intuitive in practice!)
Pros and cons of post stitches:
- To maintain gauge, extend dc and dtr post sts by one loop in the base (optional for tr sts, i.e. regular diagonals).
- Post sts add texture and depth. They work best with finer yarn or thread and may be too bulky in other situations.
- Front-post sts are raised while back-post sts are recessed, which may or may not suit the design.
- Post sts create curved rather than sharp angles, which, again, may or may not suit the motif you are making.
- Post sts can slightly disrupt the alignment of the two meshes, giving outlines a “wobbly” appearance.