A step-by-step tutorial for the super stretchy Latvian bind-off method using a tapestry needle
The Latvian bind-off is a lovely variation of the sewn bind-off and requires a tapestry needle as well. It is even stretchier and creates a lovely little braided edge. It’s a very nice technique for lace patterns and all other projects where you absolutely don’t want to constrict the fabric with a tight edge.
I would rank this method among the more difficult stretchy bind-offs in knitting, for three reasons: First of all you absolutely shouldn’t miscalculate your tail, you can mess up your gauge while sewing too tightly, and it’s very difficult to unravel. At the same, there’s no denying that the Latvian bind-off is beautiful, doesn’t flare out, and is stretchy. So, it sure comes with a lot of benefits as well.
Note: Please do not confuse this method with the Latvian braid bind-off – they are two separate techniques. The latter uses two colors and is worked with knitting needles.
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Instructions: How to knit the Latvian bind-off
The Latvian bind-off creates a very ornamental and stretchy edge. Do keep in mind it's very difficult to unravel. So, perhaps test it on a swatch first and definitely test your edge after the first 10-20 stitches.
Tools
Instructions
- Break the yarn leaving a tail that is at least 4 times as long as your project is wide stretched out.
- First setup stitch: Thread the tail on a tapestry needle and go through the second stitch on your left needle knitwise and pull the yarn all the way through.
Note: Some people skip this step but I feel it creates a neater connection between the first and second stitch. - Second setup stitch: go through the first stitch purlwise (so from right to left).
- Next, pull the tapestry needle through the THIRD stitch knitwise (so from left to right).
- Go through the SECOND stitch coming in from behind and get out UNDER the bar you created.
- Drop the first stitch off the left needle.
- Next, go through the (new) third stitch knitwise and pull the yarn through.
- From here, go through the (new) second stitch coming in from behind but exit ABOVE the bar.
- Drop the first stitch off the left needle.
- Repeat steps 3-8 until you bound off all stitches.
Notes
When you are knitting flat, you have to be careful with the last two stitches. Since there will not be a third stitch to go through, simply wrap the yarn around that side as if there was, and then enter the second stitch from behind as usual. From there, just drop the stitches off the needle and thread the tail through to the back piercing through the last stitch one row below. The video that is on autoplay here on this page will show you how.
Kindly note that the edge will typically look a bit wonky right after you’ve finished. Once you’ve stretched things out and blocked things, the loops will settle it. You can also spread the fabric out a bit to the top to facilitate this process.
How stretchy is the Latvian bind-off?
Compared to the standard bind-off, it is about 30 to 35 percent stretchier. In fact, in the swatch above, it is the fabric that kept me from stretching things out even further, not the edge. So, if you are working on a lace pattern with a very loose gauge, you will definitely benefit from that.
Truth be told, it is by far the stretchiest method I know, even stretchier than the yarn over bind-off or Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind-off. However, it doesn’t really flare out at all. So, you can achieve a totally balanced fabric that doesn’t get wider towards the edge. Quite lovely and unique, if you call me. But do check out my list of stretchy bind-off methods here.
That’s how to do the Latvian bind-off. Comment below if you have any further questions.
Hello Norman, I love all your tutorials: they are very clear and have taught me many knitting tricks in a clear, methodical and well-illustrated ways. I have often tried to practice the Italian or tubular bind off, but I would really appreciate a clear video with you explaining the steps since you are such a wonderful teacher. I have searched your videos but was unable to find such a tutorial. Thank you very, very much for all your great work!!