Knitting Technique: Picot Hem

Welcome to the world of knitting, where creativity intertwines with craftsmanship, and every stitch tells a story. Among the myriad techniques cherished by knitters, the picot hem stands as a versatile and elegant choice for adding a delicate edge to your projects. Whether you’re crafting garments, accessories, or decorative items, mastering the art of the picot hem opens a realm of possibilities for enhancing the beauty of your knitted creations.

In this guide, we will delve into the intricacies of creating picot hems, exploring various methods tailored to different knitting styles and project requirements. From knitting flat to working in the round, and from seamless finishes to those requiring meticulous seaming, we’ll cover it all.

Join us on this journey as we unravel the secrets of the picot hem, empowering you to infuse your knitting projects with charm, elegance, and a touch of intricate detail. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter seeking to expand your repertoire or a newcomer eager to explore new techniques, this guide is your gateway to mastering the art of the picot hem and elevating your knitting to new heights.

Picot Hem at the Cast-on edge

For working Flat:

1. Cast on an even number of stitches using a Provisional Cast-on.
2. Work 1-2″ / 2.5-5 cm of stockinette, ending with the RS facing for the next row.
3. Next Row (RS): K1, *yo, k2tog; rep from * to last st, k1. This creates the Picot hem edge (where we fold).
4. Continue with stockinette for 1-2″ / 2.5-5 cm, ending with the WS facing for the next row.
5. Next Row (WS): Fold the hem with the WS facing together. Join the edges together by working 2 together along the row on the needles and along the Provisional Cast-on edge, taking a stitch from each, blending stitches from front and back needles.

For working in the round:

1. Cast on an even number of stitches using a Provisional Cast-on.
2. Work 1-2″ / 2.5-5 cm of stockinette.
3. Next Round: *Yo, k2tog; repeat from * across round. This creates the Picot hem edge (where we fold).
4. Continue with stockinette for 1-2″ / 2.5-5 cm.
5. Next Round: Fold the hem with the wrong sides together. Join the edges together by knitting 2 together along the row on the needles and along the Provisional Cast-on edge, taking a stitch from each, blending stitches from front and back needles.

Picot Hem at Bind-off Edge

For working flat:

1. Knit to where the Picot Edge should start, ending with the RS facing for the next row.
2. Next Row (RS): K1, *yo, k2tog; rep from * to last st, k1.
3. Work 1-2″ / 2.5-5 cm of stockinette, ending with the RS facing for the next row.
4. Bind off all your stitches.
5. Fold the hem with the WS together and stitch it down on the wrong side of your work, catching only the back of the knitting.

For working in the round:

1. Knit to where the Picot Edge should start, ending with the RS facing for the next row.
2. Next Round: *Yo, k2tog; rep from * across round.
3. Work 1-2″ / 2.5-5 cm of stockinette.
4. Bind off all your stitches.
5. Fold the hem with the WS together and stitch it down on the wrong side of your work, catching only the back of the knitting.

Here’s a video tutorial for those who may need it!