Knitting needles, yarn, and a measuring tape on a wooden surface

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make a Slip Knot for Knitting

Foster Ruby

Every knitting project begins with a basic knot, but the question arises, how does one tie a slip knot? This comprehensive guide will provide clear instructions on two simple techniques to achieve the perfect slip knot. Both techniques are quick, taking no longer than a few seconds, and will form an ideal base for any long tail cast on. The first method is remarkably simple, while the second, though appearing slightly more complex, positions your hands perfectly to carry on knitting for a seamless transition. 

You may also like learning how to keep your knitting from curling after mastering the slip knot technique for starting your projects.

Two Simple Techniques to Make a Slip Knot for Knitting

Varied green yarn balls and needles on a textured surface

Creating a Slip Knot Using Your Hands

The most straightforward method to form a slip knot involves using only your hands and is the preferred choice for most beginners.

Materials needed: Any type of yarn. For this guide, Schachenmayr Catania Grande is used.

Your hands and possibly a knitting needle to place the knot on.

Procedure:

  1. Begin by forming a loop with the yarn, ensuring the active strand is to your left and the end is to your right;
  2. Slide your thumb and forefinger into the loop from the top;
  3. Proceed to seize the yarn leading back to the ball and draw it through this loop;
  4. Firm up this loop to create a stable knot;
  5. To finish, slip this loop onto your knitting needles and give a tug on both the end and the active yarn to snug the knot securely.

Note: For knitting purposes, the adjustable portion of the knot should connect to your working yarn.

How to Use Knitting Needles for Crafting a Slip Knot

The second method of crafting a slip knot involves using knitting needles. This approach might seem a little more intricate initially, but once the yarn is wrapped around your fingers, you can effortlessly proceed to the long tail cast on – a definite timesaver.

Steps:

  1. Start by looping the yarn around your little finger and then guide it across your hand from behind;
  2. Create a loop over your thumb in a clockwise direction;
  3. Hold the yarn in place using your ring and little fingers;
  4. Slide a needle or two, based on your desired knot tension, under the loop on your thumb;
  5. Capture the yarn near your index finger from above and pull this through the loop;
  6. Let go of the yarn then pull to tighten, forming the slip knot.

Those learning may feel this method has too many steps and could be time-consuming, but it isn’t. With a little practice, you can quickly master this method within a few seconds, leaving the slip knot tight and ready on your needles.

Fine-Tuning Your Slip Knot Skills

A person's hands knitting with blue yarn, close-up view

Gaining proficiency in the art of crafting slip knots comes with repetitive action. The frequency of your practice will directly enhance your efficiency and ease in making them. In knitting, as in learning the intricacies of slip knots, maintaining patience is crucial.

Additionally, it’s vital for knitters to be equipped with strategies for troubleshooting frequent slip knot complications. We will delve into a variety of usual slip knot concerns and present actionable remedies. This knowledge will help ensure that your knitting ventures begin smoothly.

Conclusion

The art of knitting begins with the skill to tie a perfect slip knot. Mastering these two methods will help you swiftly move on to the next stages of your knitting project. Just remember, every knitter starts somewhere, and with a bit of practice, you will perfect the art of making a slip knot in no time.