Pick Up vs Pick Up and Knit vs Knit Up

This video explains the differences between "picking up sts," "picking up and knitting sts," and "knitting up sts." When do they mean the same thing and when do they mean something more specific? Does it matter that there is ambiguity? How can the ambiguity be eliminated?

To jump to a specific point in the video, click on the links below:
Introduction: 0:00
Two scenarios for joining new fabric to existing fabric.
Scenario #1: Acquiring new sts: 0:50
Knitting up sts through an existing st: 1:00
Knitting up sts between two sts: 1:36
Picking up and knitting sts: 2:14
Scenario #2 - joining new fabric as it's created: 2:52
Pick up sts: 2:52
Untangling the terms: 3:43
Pick up sts means two things: 4:05
My opinion on the various terms: 5:26

If you have questions about this video, or suggestions for future videos, please let me know down in the comments or on social media.

[annabelle]

Not just clear and specific but smart and analytic! Breaking down English verb pick up and going straight to the source of confusion! This was very helpful and pleasing to watch. Thank you!

[P.M.P.]

I feel like anyone would be a master knitter after watching your videos. You really are amazing. Thank you so much ❤

[ambreeniramahmad]

Very clear discussion about "unclear knitting terms".

[ajsdfkajsdf]

As a linguist, I love your analogy with "pick up the bag of dog food" ! You're wonderful.

[semprelegato]

And, trying to knit when abbreviations differ for the same technique, or the confusion if you land on a pattern from the UK when you're from the US. I've been knitting for longer than you've been on the planet, and they can still come up with things that confuse me. Enjoy your videos so much, as you cut thru the underbrush of knitting confusion. A gazillion folks are putting knitting tutorials on Youtube and I had narrowed it down to six that were worthwhile. Had to up that to seven when your site was discovered! Thanks

[dianepeterkoperdan]

You can add me to the list of those who love your videos. On the topic of picking up stitches, what I always find missing is a picture of what it looks like on the wrong side. I once knit a sweater with a collar looking similar to a shirt collar when buttoned up. The instructions would have me knit the collar, then sew it up after. I was bound and determined to knit on. Easier said than done because the back side of the pickup shows at the fold-over. Ditto with buttonhole edges. When the sweater is buttoned up, okay, but when it is loose and the edge fold over, it's not always pretty! Keep up the good work, we knitters all love it.

[mistyblue]

Year 2020 and I am going back to a refresher from 2017! That says it all Rox. Your knowledge n expertise will live forever. Hugs.

[christineteffenhart]

I just watched this video again. I find it helpful to be reminded of the ambiguous nature of some parts of hand knitting. That way I don't fall into the trap of always blaming myself for something I don't understand in my WIP. Thanks again.

[dorothyscheines]

Your videos are so helpful thank you for putting them up and putting in time stamps! You've probably helped thousands of people make thousands of sweaters!

[hanakikoi]

I love your channel, as a younger knitter your wisdoms is very valuable to me c: your voice is so calming as well

[schreiberreis]

This was SO helpful, in large part because you made me feel less crazy about not always understanding what terms mean. I laughed with relief when you said that m1 is ambiguous - I thought it was just me failing to understand! Thanks for this video.

[Giantkiller-t]

thank you roxanne, every single time i have an issue, i look it up and your videos ALWAYS help me

[suescott]

Roxanne you really do Rock! Thank you so much for this wonderful explanation, and for every one of your videos! They are all excellent. You are my go-to for all knitting questions/ answers. You come through with shining colors every single time! ❤❤❤

[kbenesch]

Thank you! I am forever trying to figure out what “picking up” stitches means. This video has already helped and I look forward to seeing your detailed explanations.

[mrstukutela]

Hi, Roxanne. Thank you for the prompt reply. The pattern reads: Pick up and knit 88 stitches evenly around the FRONT neck and 34 stitches (which the pattern said to mark off at the centre of the back), thus making a total of 122 stitches for my size. This is even before the first knitted row where a further 12 stitches would have to be increased to make a total of 134 stitches to proceed with the neckband. The best that I can come up with is a total of 88 stitches before the increasing process on the first knitted row after the pickup. It looks really neat after I've done it the way I see it, but I am concerned that the neck opening will be too small and tight.

[aggiemakes]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us! Your a wonderful teacher and I really appreciate your help!

[nneedler]

It’s uncanny that when I’m stuck with a patterns directions, you easily explain it without ever seeing my pattern. Thanks for sharing your skill.

[theastewart]

Very interesting. I look forward to your upcoming videos on this subject. Thank you!

[leighlingbloom]

Love the video. Would like to see addressed picking up stitches when garment has both garter stitch and stockinette stitches to pick up. Ratio for both garter/stockinette explained too. I learned a great deal. Just thought another video for would be helpful.

[TheMiriamLima]

Always very informative!!! Thanks Rox, you rock!!!