Playing around with variations of the double yarn over

For most things in knitting, there are several ways to accomplish the same thing, or nearly the same thing with subtle differences. And that certainly is the case when it comes the double yarn over sequence in lace knitting.

Several weeks ago, we covered the simple technique of working k1, p1 into the double yarn over of a previous row (see Distinctive and Decorative – the Double Yarn Over). The k1, p1 sequence is probably the most commonly encountered because it is simple to explain and do (being that it requires no special knowledge of other stitches beside a basic knit and purl stitch). Also, from my trials, it appears to result in the most open and symmetrical of the double yarn over eyelet versions.

This sequence of k1, p1 will leave a little “dimple” at the top of the resulting eyelet (somewhat like the indention of a heart?). It’s hardly noticeable, but it is there. You can either view it as charming (well, I do love hearts, lol) or you might prefer a different look. That is where I am offering you an opportunity to play around with “nearly the same thing with subtle differences”.

Somewhat fortunately, lace edgings often are designed to be used as a reversible fabric (i.e. garter stitch based). Not always, but it’s quite common. So how you treat the double yarn over on a return row could depend upon whether you are working a stockinette-based lace or garter-based. There are no set rules — mostly it is a matter of design and preferred taste.

Play around with these sequences on the return row of a double yarn over and see which flavor(s) are your preferred:

• k1, p1
• p1, k1
• k1, k1tbl
• k1tbl, k1tbl
• p1, p1tbl
• k1, p1tbl
• others you can devise?

Note: k1tbl = k1 stitch through back loop; p1tbl = p1 stitch through back loop

In a comment on April 1, Mary Beth offered:

When knitting back the double yarn over, I tend to K the first YO and Ktbl in the second. It leaves a simple (cleaner?) line and I can do it faster than K-P.

I do think the k1, k1tbl does give a somewhat cleaner line on the top of the eyelet of the side facing you as you work that row (which in many lace patterns with a definite RS and WS, that return row will be a WS row). Do be aware of what the reverse side looks like, too, as in many lace patterns that is going to be the more commonly viewed RS.

A subtle difference I notice when doing a k1, k1tbl sequence, is that the  twisted leg of the k1tbl stitch sort of pulls toward the center of the eyelet, therefore making that side of the eyelet a little less open and somewhat asymmetrical. However, if you prefer a method because it is faster and more enjoyable, that can have a lot going for it. After all, knitting should be fun and most people are not going to be looking at each strand of the knitting with a magnifying glass, anyway.

So, are you up to the fun of trying out some of these variations? I’ve given you some of my ideas. Please chime in with your favorite (or favorites) like Mary Beth has. Remember, there is no right or wrong. And you might even point out something the rest of us had not even noticed or considered before.