What does asterisk mean in knitting pattern?
In the world of knitting, understanding the language and symbols used in patterns is crucial for creating beautiful and accurate garments. One of the most common symbols you will encounter is the asterisk (). But what does this little mark really mean, and how does it affect your knitting project? Let’s delve into the significance of the asterisk in knitting patterns.
The asterisk is a versatile symbol that serves multiple purposes in knitting patterns. Its primary function is to indicate a repeat, which is a sequence of stitches that you will repeat a certain number of times. This is particularly useful when a pattern requires a specific sequence of stitches to be repeated throughout the work.
For example, if you see a pattern that reads “K2, P1, K2, rep from to end,” it means that you should knit two stitches, then purl one, and then repeat the K2, P1 sequence until you reach the end of the row. The asterisk here indicates that the sequence “K2, P1” is to be repeated throughout the row.
Another use of the asterisk is to denote a specific section within a pattern that needs to be repeated multiple times. This is often seen in patterns with a modular design, where a particular section is repeated to create a larger pattern or shape. For instance, a pattern might say “Repeat the following 8 rows 4 times,” with the asterisk marking the beginning of the 8-row repeat section.
In some cases, the asterisk may also be used to indicate a decrease or increase in the number of stitches. For example, a pattern might read “K2, K1, P2, rep from to end,” which means that you should knit two stitches, then perform a decrease by knitting one, purling two, and then repeat the decrease sequence until you reach the end of the row.
It’s important to note that the asterisk can sometimes be accompanied by additional numbers or symbols that provide further instructions. For instance, “K2, K1, P2, rep 3 times from to end” means that you should repeat the decrease sequence three times before reaching the end of the row.
Understanding the asterisk and its various uses in knitting patterns is essential for successful execution of your knitting projects. By familiarizing yourself with this symbol and its associated instructions, you’ll be able to create intricate and beautiful garments with ease. So the next time you see an asterisk in a knitting pattern, remember that it’s a key element that helps bring your creative vision to life.
