Swatch selvedges
I use a narrow garter edge for the selvedges on my flat stitch-pattern-testing swatches, and thought I would share the technique for those who aren’t familiar with it. It’s not enough of a garter edge to prevent curling, but that’s not usually relevant for my stitch pattern swatches. On the other hand, it’s narrow enough that the edge doesn’t pull up into proper garter ridges which would distort the pattern.
When I cast on, I calculate how many stitches I need for the body of my swatch and then add an extra four stitches, which accounts for both selvedges.
- Slip the first stitch of the row purlwise with yarn in back. This makes the purl bump from this stitch visible along the edge.
- Knit the next stitch, then work all pattern stitches, stopping when two stitches remain. Knit those two. Turn work.
That’s all there is to it!