M1 (Make One)Updated 6 months ago

M1, or Make One, is a common increase stitch that creates a new stitch by lifting the bar between two stitches and knitting into it. M1 is practically invisible and doesn’t leave a gap, making it ideal for subtle shaping. It can lean left (M1L) or right (M1R) based on the direction it’s twisted, offering knitters precise control over increases for symmetrical shaping.

How to M1:

• M1L (Make One Left):
  1. Lift the bar between stitches from front to back with the left needle.
  2. Knit into the back of the loop, twisting it to prevent a hole.
• M1R (Make One Right):
  1. Lift the bar between stitches from back to front with the left needle.
  2. Knit into the front of the loop.

Tip: Practicing both M1L and M1R is useful, especially for garments where increases need to match on both sides of a piece, like in raglan shaping or sleeve increases.