Designer's note: circular knitting on two straight needles

Both "circular knitting on two straight needles" and the "double knit cast on" grew out of the double knit technique. Thus I will begin by describing the double knit technique. I will then go on to describe circular knitting on two straight needles. Tomorrow's post will describe the double knit cast on technique. If you feel I could describe a step clearer or have any other concerns, queries or suggestions please email me: leanne@oknitting.com I appreciate your assistance.

Step 1:
Begin by casting on. You may use your favourite cast on technique. I like double cast on.

Step 2:

Proceed by working in this pattern:

Row 1: knit; *slip stitch as if to purl, knit - repeat from * to last stitch, knit one

Row 2: knit; *knit, slip stitch as if to purl - repeat from * to last stitch, knit one
Repeat rows 1 and 2.

You will notice that your work has two sides. Pulling the sides out you will notice a "seam" that runs down the bottom centre of your work.
Employing the double knit technique I designed both the Summer "Daze" Purse
and these Oven Mitts

Circular Knitting on two straight needles

Begin with step 1 and proceed to step 2: as described above.

Step 3:

Using three needles, place "slip stitch" stitches on one needle and "knit" on another needle. (This method is seen in the picture above.) You may then continue to work these "two sides" separately. If you wish to work the "sides" at the same time two yarn balls are required. You would do this by working all the stitches from one side and drop that yarn. Then work all the stitches from the other side and drop that yarn. Proceed in this manner for the required length. If you prefer to work one side at a time you may use one yarn ball. You must work one side to its required length then cast off. You then proceed to work the other side.

The picture above reveals the result you will obtain. Step 3 was worked in 1 x 1 rib stitch.