Learn How To Join Brioche In The Round Like A Pro – Step-by-step Guide

Brioche knitting, characterized by its fluffy texture and unique stitch pattern, is a popular technique for creating cozy and elegant garments. One of the key challenges in brioche knitting is joining the fabric in the round to create seamless pieces. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to join brioche in the round, ensuring a smooth and invisible transition.

Understanding Brioche Knitting

Before delving into the joining techniques, it’s crucial to understand the basics of brioche knitting. Brioche is worked using two colors of yarn, with stitches being worked into the previous row and the row below. This creates a distinctive rib-like texture that is both stretchy and warm.

Joining Brioche in the Round: 3 Essential Techniques

1. Invisible Join with Slip Stitches

Step 1: Create a Slip Stitch Row
Begin by knitting around, slipping the last stitch of each round onto the right-hand needle without working it.

Step 2: Join the Round
Bring the yarn forward and insert the right-hand needle into the first slipped stitch. Knit this stitch and the slipped stitch together.

Step 3: Continue Knitting
Continue knitting around, working the remaining slipped stitches together with the next stitch on the left-hand needle.

2. Russian Join

Step 1: Knit to the End of the Round
Knit around, leaving the last stitch on the left-hand needle.

Step 2: Cross the Yarns
Cross the two yarns over each other, bringing the yarn from the last stitch to the front.

Step 3: Knit the Slip Stitch
Insert the right-hand needle into the last stitch on the left-hand needle, from back to front. Knit this slip stitch.

Step 4: Cross the Yarns Again
Cross the two yarns back over each other, bringing the yarn from the slip stitch to the back.

Step 5: Continue Knitting
Continue knitting around as usual.

3. Mattress Stitch Join

Step 1: Knit a Few Stitches
Knit a few stitches around, leaving a small gap between the last stitch of the previous round and the first stitch of the current round.

Step 2: Sew the Edges Together
Using a yarn needle, sew the edges of the fabric together using the mattress stitch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Loose or Tight Join

Adjust the tension of the yarn when knitting the join to ensure a secure but not overly tight connection.

2. Visible Seam

Make sure to cross the yarns correctly in the Russian join or sew the edges evenly in the mattress stitch join.

3. Distorted Stitches

Avoid pulling the yarn too tightly when knitting the join. Use a light touch and focus on maintaining an even tension.

Tips for Success

• Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round.
• Practice the join on a swatch before working it on your actual project.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for you.

Final Thoughts: Seamless Brioche in the Round

Joining brioche in the round is a crucial skill for creating beautiful and seamless brioche garments. By following the techniques outlined in this guide, you can achieve invisible joins that enhance the overall appearance of your projects. Remember to practice, troubleshoot any issues, and enjoy the process of creating stunning brioche pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use any type of yarn for brioche knitting?
A: Yes, brioche can be worked with most types of yarn, but worsted weight or DK weight yarn is commonly used.

Q: How do I prevent brioche fabric from curling?
A: To prevent curling, use a slightly larger needle size for the brioche sections compared to the non-brioche sections.

Q: Can I join brioche fabric after it has been knit flat?
A: Yes, it is possible to join brioche fabric after it has been knit flat. However, it is recommended to join the fabric before it has been blocked to ensure a smoother transition.