The Loop or Fur Stitch

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Loop, or Fur, Stitch creates voluminous texture that provides warmth and detail and a whole load of sensory fun. It reminds me of vintage makes from the Seventies and it no doubt brings distinct memories to mind for many.

This is a yarn thirsty technique, be warned, and somewhat labourious too. But it’s worth it if you've the right project in mind and it’s very effective with hand-dyed or variegated yarns.

The Loop Stitch is normally written as *K1, M1L; then *M1L, K1; on alternate pattern rows, with a plain row between them, for a 4-row repeat. This offsets the loops to create an appearance with more volume and no gaps. This tutorial will show you how to make the ‘M1L’ stitch and all you need to ensure the loops are the same size is your thumb!

1) Knit to the point where the loop is to be made and it usually won’t have a loop 2 rows below at the same point.

2) Insert your right-hand needle into the back of the loop of the next stitch on the left-hand needle.

3) And knit it, bringing the new stitch through. However, don’t drop the stitch you’ve just knit into off the left-hand needle yet.

4) Carefully place your thumb at the base of the stitch you’ve just worked.

5) Bring the yarn forward between the needles and wrap it around your thumb, before taking the yarn back again.

6) Keeping the loop around your thumb, insert the right-hand needle into the back of the same stitch, just as before.

7) Knit the stitch through the back of the loop and drop the stitch off the left-hand needle.

8) There’ll be 2 stitches on the right-hand needle, one either side of the loop you’ve just created.

9) Insert the tip of the left-hand needle into the first stitch of the pair on the right-hand needle.

10) And lift that stitch over the 2nd stitch of the pair and drop it off the needle.

11) This passing over of the stitch creates a small knot around the loop to keep it in place. If your loop is looking a little small, firmly hold the base of the knot and give the loop a little tug – this will help tighten it up and give you maximum textural impact.

Support

If you’ve a question about this technique, pop it in a comment below or visit the forum! I’m unable to offer help with patterns or techniques via email.