This guide will cover what stitch markers are and how they make knitting easier. I’ll explain how they show up in patterns and exactly how to use them.
What are Stitch Markers?
The perfect multi-purpose tool, stitch markers make knitting easier in a variety of ways.
Usually small, round and colourful, stitch markers are an essential part of your knitting kit. They come in two styles:
- Small fixed rings that can be placed between stitches on your needles
- Locking markers that can be attached to stitches and removed later
Purposes of Stitch Markers
Tracking Start of Rounds
When you knit in the round, it can be hard to see exactly where the round started. By placing a stitch marker at the start of the round, there is no need to worry you have lost your place. No more counting stitches every round!
I know some knitters who prefer to place the marker 1 stitch in from the beginning of the round. This stops it from sliding off the needle whilst your project is not being worked on.
Tip: Use the same colour stitch marker in every project to mark the beginning of a round. If you have multiple markers on your needles, this is an easy way to know which one is the start of the round marker.
Pattern Repeats
In lace knitting or colourwork patterns, there are repeated sections. By placing a stitch marker between each repeat block, you have an early warning sign if you have gone wrong somewhere.
Chart Sections
If you are working on a pattern that has a cabled section, stitch markers can signal the start and end of that section. This avoids the need to count out the stitches in every row to know where the patterned section starts.
Like with the pattern repeats, having a stitch marker at the end of the patterned section also lets you know if you’ve accidentally skipped a stitch or dropped one.
Lining Up Pieces
In a jumper or cardigan pattern, you might be asked to place stitch markers to mark key points in the pattern. Usually, these are used when sewing up to make sure armholes are lined up and everything is in the correct place.
Using Stitch Markers in Knitting Patterns
If a knitting pattern wants you to use stitch markers, you may start to see abbreviations like PM (place marker) and SM (slip marker).
To place a marker, once you reach a ‘PM’ in the knitting pattern, slide a stitch marker onto your right-hand needle then carry on knitting. You can use a locking marker or a fixed marker.
If you are asked to place a marker in a stitch, make sure to use a locking marker so it can be used later.
To slip a marker that has already been placed, simply move it from the left-hand to the right-hand needle.
Tip: I would recommend always placing a stitch marker even if you can’t see the purpose at the time. They will be referenced further down the pattern. Trying to figure out where it should have gone later can be tricky!
Where to get Stitch Markers
Now you know how useful stitch markers can be, you can get some of your own.
I would recommend getting a few of each of the two styles: locking and fixed.
Stitch markers can be bought in packs from your craft shops or knitting stores. At craft fairs, you will often find lots of beautiful handmade and unique markers. Your favourite yarn dyers may include themed ones with skein sets too, so keep an eye out.
If you end up out and about without your stitch markers, don’t worry. A hair bobble, paperclip or knotted thread can make a great makeshift marker in a pinch!