Mastering the Knit Front Back (kfb) Stitch
The knit front back (kfb) is a fundamental knitting technique that seamlessly adds an extra stitch to your projects. This method involves knitting into the front and back of the same stitch, creating a subtle increase that blends beautifully into your fabric. Perfect your knitting projects with this reliable and efficient stitch.
To execute the knit front back (kfb) stitch:
Knit Into the Front: Begin by inserting your right needle knitwise into the next stitch on the left needle. Wrap the yarn around the right needle and pull it through, but do not slide the stitch off the left needle.
Knit Into the Back: Now, insert your right needle knitwise into the back loop of the same stitch on the left needle. Wrap the yarn around the right needle and pull it through, creating a second loop. You should now have two stitches on the right needle.
Slide the Stitch Off: Finally, slide the original stitch off the left needle. You have now increased one stitch by knitting into both the front and the back of the same stitch.
Practice Makes Perfect: As with any new technique, practice will help you master the knit front back (kfb) stitch. Incorporate it into a swatch or simple project to become comfortable with its execution and appearance.
Best Fabrics and Projects for the Knit Front Back (kfb) Increase
The knit front back (kfb) increase is a versatile and widely used method in knitting. While it can be applied to various types of stitches and fabrics, there are certain contexts where it shines the most.
Best Uses for the kfb Increase:
Garter Stitch:
Why: The garter stitch's bumpy texture can easily hide the bar created by the kfb increase, making it a good choice for maintaining the integrity of the fabric's texture.
Projects: Scarves, dishcloths, and shawls.
Stockinette Stitch:
Why: The kfb increase blends well into the smooth texture of stockinette stitch. It's often used here because the small "bar" created by the increase is relatively inconspicuous. For a nearly invisible increase, consider using the m1bl, m1L, or m1R increase method.
Projects: Sweaters, hats, and blankets.
Ribbing:
Why: When worked within ribbing patterns (such as k1, p1 or k2, p2), the kfb increase can help maintain the elasticity and consistency of the ribbing.
Projects: Cuffs, hems, and collars.
Textured Patterns:
Why: Textured patterns like seed stitch or moss stitch can also benefit from the kfb increase, as the added stitch integrates well with the pattern's overall texture.
Projects: Baby blankets, throws, and textured sweaters.
Tips for Using kfb Increase:
Placement: Position the kfb increase strategically within your pattern to ensure it enhances rather than disrupts the overall design.
Consistency: Make sure to consistently work the kfb increase in the same manner to maintain uniformity across your project.
The knit front back (kfb) stitch is a versatile increase that can be used in various knitting projects, from simple scarves to intricate sweaters. With practice, you’ll be able to add this essential stitch to your repertoire, enhancing the structure and design of your knitting projects.