Using Stitch Markers
When and how to use stitch markers in your knitting
7/7/20252 min read
A stitch marker is a tool for marking a specific point in your knitting project. There are different types, some are simple circles, or other fun shapes that go on the needle, some have a split ring to easily slip onto a stitch, and some open and close to fit wherever you want. You can also make your own stitch markers just by tying a loop of scrap yarn big enough to fit around the needle. This trick comes in very handy with larger needles, as most manufactured stitch markers are too small to fit. Some are purely functional, while others are decorative and fun. Which ones you use will mostly come down to personal preference.
What Are Stitch Markers?
When to Use Stitch Markers
In circular knitting, a stitch marker is typically used to mark the beginning/end of the round so that you can easily keep track of what round you’re on. You can also use them to mark where to increase or decrease if it’s in the same spot on multiple rows/rounds. If you have to cast on a lot of stitches, I like to use stitch markers to help me count. I place one marker every 10 stitches and use a different color on multiples of 50. Stitch markers are also useful for marking pattern repeats, especially when working with cables or lace. Locking stitch markers can also be placed onto dropped stitches so they don’t unravel any further, and it makes them easy to find again to fix later.
How to Use Stitch Markers
Most often in knitting, the stitch marker will go around the needle in between two stitches, like in the picture below. When you get to the marker, simply slip it from the left needle to the right to maintain its position. In patterns that suggest using stitch markers, they will usually be written as “sm” for “slip marker” in the instructions. Split ring and locking stitch markers can be placed around a particular stitch, to mark a specific row, or to help you keep track of the right side/wrong side of the work, though this is more common in crochet than knitting.
Tips for Using Stitch Markers
Don’t be afraid to use a lot of markers if they help you! Use different colors or types to indicate different meanings, write them down in a project journal so you don’t forget (try this one that I made)! Keep extra markers handy just in case you lose one or find another spot where adding one would be helpful. Use locking stitch markers to track rows. If you’re using them in between pattern repeats, count the stitches between markers as you go to find mistakes quickly. If you have any questions about using stitch markers, use the form below to send me an email. Happy stitching!
