Kitchener stitch is commonly used to finish the toes of cuff-down socks by grafting the remaining sole and instep stitches together.
The video only shows steps 3 and 4 of the instructions below but the actions shown in the video for the second stitch on each needle (i.e. the stitches that are left on the needles) are the same as the actions for the first stitches in steps 1 and 2.
Patterns that use this technique:
Divide stitches evenly between two needles. Hold needles parallel with right side of work facing out. Using matching yarn on a tapestry needle work as follows:
- Step 1: Pass tapestry needle through first stitch on front needle as if to purl and leave stitch on needle.
- Step 2: Pass tapestry needle through first stitch on back needle as if to knit and leave stitch on needle.
- Step 3: Pass tapestry needle through first stitch on front needle as if to knit and slip stitch off needle. Pass tapestry needle through next stitch on front needle as if to purl and leave stitch on needle.
- Step 4: Pass tapestry needle through first stitch on back needle as if to purl and slip stitch off needle. Pass tapestry needle through next stitch on back needle as if to knit and leave stitch on needle.
Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until there are no stitches remaining.