Learn How To Increase The Brioche Stitch In Just 3 Easy Steps!

Brioche stitch, with its distinctive honeycomb texture and squishy softness, is a beloved knitting technique. However, increasing brioche stitch can be a bit of a mystery, especially for beginners. This comprehensive guide will demystify the process, providing you with step-by-step instructions on how to increase brioche stitch.

Understanding Brioche Stitch

Brioche stitch is a two-color knitting technique that creates a reversible fabric with a unique texture. It is worked in rows, alternating between a “brioche knit” and a “brioche purl” stitch.

Brioche Knit (brk):

1. Knit into the next stitch.
2. Slip the knitted stitch back to the left-hand needle.
3. Knit into the front loop of the slipped stitch.

Brioche Purl (brp):

1. Purl into the next stitch.
2. Slip the purled stitch back to the left-hand needle.
3. Purl into the back loop of the slipped stitch.

Types of Increases in Brioche Stitch

There are two main types of increases that can be used in brioche stitch:

1. Yarn Over (yo): This creates an additional stitch by wrapping the yarn over the right-hand needle.
2. Double Yarn Over (dyo): This creates two additional stitches by wrapping the yarn over the right-hand needle twice.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Increase Brioche Stitch

Using a Yarn Over (yo)

1. Knit or purl into the next stitch as usual.
2. Wrap the yarn over the right-hand needle.
3. Knit or purl into the next stitch as usual.

Using a Double Yarn Over (dyo)

1. Knit or purl into the next stitch as usual.
2. Wrap the yarn over the right-hand needle twice.
3. Knit or purl into the next stitch as usual.

Placement of Increases

Increases in brioche stitch can be placed anywhere in the row, but they are typically placed at the beginning or end of a section of brioche knit or brioche purl stitches.

Tips for Increasing Brioche Stitch

• Keep track of your stitches: It’s important to count your stitches carefully when increasing in brioche stitch to avoid any errors.
• Use stitch markers: Stitch markers can help you keep track of where you have increased and where you need to increase next.
• Practice: The more you practice increasing brioche stitch, the easier it will become. Start with a small swatch to get the hang of it.

Troubleshooting Common Errors

• Holes in the fabric: This can happen if you forgot to wrap the yarn over for an increase.
• Uneven texture: This can happen if you did not slip the stitch correctly or if you wrapped the yarn over too loosely or too tightly.
• Too many or too few stitches: This can happen if you miscount your stitches or if you increase in the wrong place.

Wrap-Up: Mastering the Art of Brioche Stitch Increases

Increasing brioche stitch is a valuable skill that can enhance your knitting projects. By understanding the different types of increases and following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can confidently add depth and interest to your brioche stitch creations.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. How do I increase brioche stitch at the end of a row?

You can increase brioche stitch at the end of a row by working a yarn over or a double yarn over into the last stitch of the row.

2. How do I increase brioche stitch in the middle of a row?

To increase brioche stitch in the middle of a row, work a yarn over or a double yarn over between two stitches.

3. What is the difference between a yarn over and a double yarn over?

A yarn over creates one additional stitch, while a double yarn over creates two additional stitches.

4. How do I avoid holes in the fabric when increasing brioche stitch?

Make sure to wrap the yarn over the right-hand needle securely and to slip the stitch correctly.

5. How do I fix uneven texture when increasing brioche stitch?

If the texture is uneven, try slipping the stitch more loosely or more tightly, or wrapping the yarn over more loosely or more tightly.