Grafting: A Smooth, Seamless Join for Knitting Projects

In knitting, grafting is a technique used to create a nearly invisible join between two sets of live stitches. Most commonly used to close the toes of cuff-down socks, it gives the illusion of continuous rows of knitting – with no bulky seam to speak of.

You may know this technique by a different name – traditionally referred to as the “Kitchener Stitch”. However, due to the problematic legacy of that term and in a move towards more inclusive and thoughtful language, I now refer to it simply as grafting. The method remains exactly the same – only the name has changed. If you’d like to learn why you’ll notice designers making this move, here’s why. 

Whether you’re finishing socks, mittens, or shoulders, grafting is a skill well worth adding to your toolkit.

What You’ll Need

• A blunt tapestry needle
• Your working yarn (or a length of yarn in the same weight)
• Two needles holding live stitches
• Patience (this technique isn’t difficult, but it does require focus)

Setup: Preparing to Graft

Before you begin, arrange your knitting so the wrong sides are facing together, and the live stitches are evenly distributed over two needles – front and back.

You should have the same number of stitches on each needle. If you’re working in stocking stitch, both needles should show knit stitches facing outward.

Thread your tapestry needle with a length of yarn long enough to work across all stitches, plus a bit extra.

Step-by-Step Grafting Instructions

Here’s the rhythm to follow. Repeat Steps 1–4 until all stitches are grafted:

Setup (only once):
1. Insert the tapestry needle purlwise into the first stitch on the front needle, and leave the stitch on.
2. Insert the needle knitwise into the first stitch on the back needle, and leave the stitch on.

Repeat these four steps:
3. Insert the needle knitwise into the first stitch on the front needle, and slip it off. Then insert the needle purlwise into the next stitch on the front needle and leave it on.
4. Insert the needle purlwise into the first stitch on the back needle, and slip it off. Then insert the needle knitwise into the next stitch on the back needle and leave it on.

Keep a steady tension as you work – not too tight, not too loose. You want your grafted row to blend seamlessly with the surrounding fabric.

Tips for Grafting Success

• Work slowly and in good lighting.
• Read your stitches as you go – the fabric should look like a continuation of your knitting.
• If you make a mistake, don’t panic! You can gently unpick a few grafted stitches and try again.
• Practice on a swatch before using it on a finished piece – especially if it’s your first time.

When to Use Grafting

When to Use Grafting

• Grafting is most often used to close toes on top-down socks, but it’s also ideal for:
• Shoulder seams in garments
• Joining two pieces of fabric invisibly
• Creating decorative horizontal joins in lace or textured patterns

A Final Word

Grafting might feel intimidating at first, but once you get into the rhythm, it becomes second nature. It’s a valuable technique that adds polish and professionalism to your finished knits.

And by choosing to refer to this technique as “grafting,” we’re aligning with a more respectful and inclusive approach to fibre arts – one that honours the craft without echoing painful histories.

Need a visual? Check out this slow-motion video from Very Pink Knits!

Have a Sock Knitting Question?

If you’re stuck on a sock technique, want to master a specific skill, or are just curious about how to improve your sock knitting game – I’m here to help. Feel free to drop a comment below or explore more of my sock knitting resources.