Essential Knitting Abbreviations for Dog Wear
Mastering knitting abbreviations is key to successfully completing dog wear projects. Whether you're a beginner or more advanced, understanding these terms will make it easier to read patterns and customize designs for your dog's perfect fit.
Common Knitting Abbreviations
CO
Cast On
The method used to begin your knitting project by creating the first row of stitches.
K
Knit
A basic stitch where the yarn is pulled through a loop to create the fabric.
P
Purl
The reverse of the knit stitch, often used in combination to create pattern.
BO
Bind Off
A method to finish your knitting by securing the stitches and preventing unraveling.
Sl
Slip
Move a stitch from one needle to another without knitting it. Often used with PSSO.
PSSO
Pass Slipped Stitch Over
Pass a slipped stitch over another to decrease the stitch count. Often used with Sl.
YO
Pass Slipped Stitch Over
Pass a slipped stitch over another to decrease the stitch count. Often used with Sl.
YFwd
Yarn Forward
Common in some UK patterns, this means bringing the yarn to the front to create a stitch.
YON
Yarn Over Needle
Another variation, meaning to bring the yarn over the needle to create an extra stitch.
YRN
Yarn Round Needle
Similar to YO, this means wrapping the yarn around the needle to create a new stitch.
K2tog
Knit Two Together
A right-leaning decrease stitch that reduces stitch count by knitting two stitches together.
SSK
Slip, Slip, Knit
A left-leaning decrease stitch, ooposite to K2tog that creates a smooth edge.
M1
Make One
An increase stitch that adds a new stitch between existing ones.
Kfb
Knit Front and Back
An increase that involves knitting into both the front and back of the same stitch, adding one extra stitch.
TBL
Through Back Loop
Knit or purl into the back of a stitch to twist it. This can create a beautiful effect over several rows.
Rep
Repeat
Repeat a section of stitches or instructions.
St(s)
Stitch(es)
Refers to the individual loops on the needle.
Common Knitting Abbreviations
Once you’re familiar with abbreviations, understanding how they apply to techniques is the next step. Here are a few key techniques for shaping and customizing dog wear:
- Increases for Custom Fit: Use M1 (Make One) or Kfb (Knit Front and Back) to add stitches, perfect for widening areas like the chest or back of a dog coat to ensure a snug yet comfortable fit.
- Decreases for Tapering: Techniques like K2tog (Knit Two Together) and SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit) reduce stitches and are essential for tapering sleeves or shaping around the neck to create a more tailored look.
- Yarn Over (YO) for Decorative Elements: Adding a YO creates an intentional hole in the fabric, which can be used for buttonholes, lace patterns, or adding ventilation to your dog’s wear, making it stylish and functional.
Tip: Use a combination of increases and decreases to add shaping and structure, especially when customizing dog wear for a perfect fit around different body types.
Practical Application in Dog Wear
Understanding knitting abbreviations is key to customizing dog wear patterns. Techniques like increases (M1, Kfb) and decreases (K2tog, SSK) allow you to adjust patterns for a perfect fit.
Tip: When customizing a pattern, pay attention to the abbreviations used and try out small projects first to practice increasing and decreasing in the right spots for the best fit.
For more detailed examples and tips on how to apply these techniques in your projects, check out my Mastering Knitting Abbreviations for Custom Dog Wear blog post. It’s full of personal stories and practical advice to help you take your knitting skills to the next level.
Jill Bartlett
As a dedicated DIY enthusiast, I craft nearly everything for my dog, from wearables and toys to food and health products. I’m passionate about teaching makers and guiding entrepreneurs in building their businesses. I share my expertise in creating customized dog gear and essentials while helping others develop and grow their own ventures. My focus is on dogs of all shapes and sizes, especially those with unique needs. Ensuring canine comfort, safety, and happiness drives every project I undertake.
