Yarn Over (YO)Updated 6 months ago

A yarn over is an increase technique that creates an extra stitch by wrapping the yarn over the needle. YOs are common in lace knitting and decorative patterns, adding small holes (eyelets) that allow light to pass through the fabric. They’re used not only for adding stitches but also for creating intentional patterns and textures in openwork designs.

How to Yarn Over:

1. Move the working yarn to the front (if knitting).
2. Wrap the yarn over the right needle, creating a loop that forms a new stitch.
3. Continue with the next stitch as per the pattern.

Applications of Yarn Overs:

• Lace Patterns: Combined with decreases, YOs create intricate patterns with controlled open spaces.
• Buttonholes: A simple yarn over paired with a decrease can form a small buttonhole in a garment.
• Increases: In some patterns, yarn overs are used as decorative increases, adding extra stitches without closing the eyelet.

Tip: Pay attention to the direction of your yarn over, as YOs before or after purl stitches can differ slightly in appearance.