Knitting two similar parts together helps to maintain uniform gauge, optimize yarn utilization, help keep track of increases/decreases as well as prevent “second sleeve syndrome”. Let’s discuss this in details and discover how it help us to create perfect knitted garments such as sweaters and cardigans.
1. Consistent Gauge:
Knitting both sleeves simultaneously helps ensure consistent gauge and tension. Our tension can change a bit for example if we are tired or it can depend on our mood. It is particularly important for sweaters and cardigans where matching sleeve length and width is crucial for a perfect finish and professional look.
You can also read how to check your knitting gauge correctly and why it is important to achieve the correct gauge in my blog post - Knit a gauge swatch.
Photo: Emmer Cardigan
2. Efficient Use of Yarn:
Knitting two sleeves at once allows you to use the yarn more efficiently. This is especially advantageous if you're using hand-dyed yarn, ensuring both sleeves have the same colour distribution.
Photo: Colourscape sweater
3. Uniform Increases/Decreases:
If your sleeves involve shaping through increases or decreases, knitting them simultaneously helps to work the shaping consistently on both sleeves. In this case it is easier to mark increases/decreases with stitch markers rather then making notes and counting rows.
4. Faster Progress:
While the initial setup for two-at-a-time sleeves might take a bit longer, the actual knitting tends to be faster. You make progress on both sleeves in each knitting session, reducing the overall time needed to complete the pair.
5. Prevents Second Sleeve Syndrome:
"Second Sleeve Syndrome" refers to the phenomenon where knitters lose motivation after completing one sleeve and struggle to start or finish the second. Knitting both sleeves together avoids this issue, as both sleeves progress simultaneously.
Photo: Teifi sweater
6. Pattern Verification: Knitting both sleeves concurrently allows you to verify the accuracy of the pattern as you work through it. If you find any issues or errors in the pattern, you can fix them immediately on both sleeves.
Photo: Love Locks sweater
7. Easier to Learn New Techniques:
If your pattern introduces new techniques, knitting both sleeves concurrently provides more practice, making it easier to master the new skills by the time you finish the pair.
Are you team 'both at once' or 'one after another'? Let's discuss! Share your preference for this method in the comments
To see some behind the scene photos you can follow me on Instagram.
You are also welcome to join my Facebook knitting group to share your work and get some help with my patterns.
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