Q&A: How to Join in the Round After Knitting Flat
Have you ever taken on the challenge of transitioning from knitting flat to circular, only to be met with that pesky visible gap at your join point? You’re not alone – we’ve experienced that hurdle too.
That’s why we looked into the best methods for a smooth and seamless shift to circular knitting, which we are sharing with you today. In our guide, we delve into successful techniques like the magic loop method, clever stitch swap join, and even grafting stitches together for impeccable joins when taking your knitting skills in the round.
Main Highlights
- The gap or jog when joining knitting in the round is a common issue that occurs when transitioning from flat knitting to circular knitting.
- Techniques like the stitch swap join, add 1 decrease 1 join, double strand join, invisible join, and grafting a stitch can be used to eliminate gaps or seams and create smooth transitions in your projects.
- The Magic Loop Method is a versatile technique that uses a long circular needle to knit smaller circumference items without the need for double-pointed needles (DPNs). It is ideal for projects like socks and sleeves.
- To achieve seamless joins when transitioning from flat knitting to knitting in the round: keep tension consistent, use stitch markers, snugly place the last stitch next to the first stitch, gently pull working yarn to close potential gaps, choose an appropriate cable length for circular needles, take care during needle changes, use smaller-sized needles for neater edges.
In this article…
The Gap or Jog When Joining Knitting in the Round
The gap or jog when joining knitting in the round is a common issue that occurs when transitioning from flat knitting to circular knitting.
Why it occurs
Often, a small gap or jog appears when transitioning from knitting flat to joining in the round. This happens because there is a slight offset between the start and end of each row.
The steps ascending like stairs lead to an unavoidable misalignment. It’s not your fault; it’s simply due to how circular knitting functions. Learning certain techniques can help you minimize this hiccup and create smoother transitions in your projects.
Making sure you cast on one extra stitch than required for your pattern can be a handy trick as well!
Common issues
The transition from flat knitting to circular can pose a few common problems for many knitters. A notable one is the appearance of a gap or jog at the join point, which can disrupt the overall aesthetic of your project.
This issue occurs due to the spiral nature of circular knitting where rounds overlap slightly.
Twisting stitches is another problem we often encounter when joining in the round after knitting flat. It might not be immediately apparent, but you’ll find an unfortunate twist running around your entire work once you’ve gone far enough into your project.
Loose stitches are also something to watch out for as they can cause inconsistent tension in our finished piece and give it a sloppy look.

Understanding the Magic Loop Method in Knitting in the Round
Mastering the Magic Loop Method opens new doors in your knitting journey. This technique involves using a long circular needle to knit smaller circumference items, making it an ideal choice for projects like socks and sleeves.
The method eliminates the need for double-pointed needles (DPNs), adding an ease-of-use that many knitters appreciate.
The process begins by casting on your stitches and sliding them to the center of the cable. Next, you’ll divide these stitches roughly in half and pull a loop out of the cable to divide them onto two separate “needles”.
Now you’re ready to start knitting in the round! While it might seem daunting at first glance, consistent practice with this versatile tool will soon have you transitioning from flat knitting to circular with confidence and ease.
Methods for Joining in the Round After Knitting Flat
To eliminate the gap or jog when joining knitting in the round after knitting flat, there are several methods you can use. These include the stitch swap join, add 1 decrease 1 join, double strand join, invisible join, and grafting a stitch.
Each method has its own unique process for seamlessly connecting your work in the round.
Stitch swap join
To create a seamless join when transitioning from flat knitting to knitting in the round, one method you can use is the stitch swap join. This technique involves swapping stitches between your needles to eliminate any gaps or jog in your work.
Simply slip the first stitch of your next row onto a cable needle or another spare needle, and then knit the first stitch of your previous row through its back loop. Finally, pass the slipped stitch over the knitted stitch and continue working in the round.
This method ensures a smooth transition and creates a clean finish without any noticeable joins.
Add 1, decrease 1 join
To achieve a seamless transition from flat knitting to knitting in the round, you can use the “add 1, decrease 1 join” method. This technique involves adding one stitch and then immediately decreasing one stitch to maintain the same number of stitches on your needle.
It helps eliminate any gaps or inconsistencies that may occur when joining in the round after knitting flat. By following this method, you’ll be able to seamlessly switch between these two techniques and continue your project without interruption.
Double strand join
To achieve a seamless transition from flat knitting to knitting in the round, one method you can use is the double strand join. This technique involves working with two strands of yarn at the same time to eliminate any gaps or seams when joining your stitches in the round.
By simply overlapping the last stitch of your flat knitting with the first stitch on your circular needles and then using both strands of yarn held together to knit those two stitches together, you can create a smooth and invisible join.
This method is ideal for projects where a clean and seamless look is desired, such as when transitioning from a ribbed hem to stockinette stitch in a sweater or hat. Give it a try and see how beautifully it can transform your circular knitting!
Invisible join
To achieve a seamless transition from knitting flat to knitting in the round, one method you can use is the invisible join. This technique allows you to seamlessly close the gap and continue working in the round without any noticeable seam.
To perform the invisible join, start by threading a tapestry needle with your working yarn. Then, insert the needle under both loops of the last stitch on your left needle from front to back.
Next, slide that stitch off your left needle and pull gently on the yarn tail to tighten it. Finally, weave in your ends for a clean finish. Practice this technique and you’ll be able to switch from flat knitting to circular knitting effortlessly!
Grafting a stitch
To graft a stitch when joining in the round after knitting flat, you can seamlessly blend your stitches using the Kitchener stitch. This technique creates an invisible join that eliminates any gaps or transitions between your flat knitting and circular knitting.
Begin by placing your work on two separate needles, with the right sides facing each other. Next, thread a tapestry needle with yarn that matches your project and insert it into the first stitch on the front needle as if to knit, then slip it off the needle.
Repeat this process for the first stitch on the back needle but insert the needle purlwise instead of knitwise. Continue alternating between front and back stitches until all stitches have been grafted together.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Method
In this section, we will provide detailed step-by-step instructions for each of the methods mentioned earlier. We will guide you through the process with clear and concise directions, ensuring you can join in the round after knitting flat seamlessly.
Whether you choose to use the stitch swap join, add 1 decrease 1 join, double strand join, invisible join, or grafting a stitch method, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow instructions.
Get ready to transform your flat knitting into seamless circular knitting!
How to perform each join method
To perform each join method, follow these steps:
- Stitch swap join: Slip the last stitch of the flat knitting onto a spare needle or stitch holder. Bring the working yarn to the front and knit the first stitch of the round with a new strand of yarn. Continue knitting in the round.
- Add 1, decrease 1 join: Knit one stitch from the flat knitting onto a spare needle or stitch holder. Knit the first stitch of the round with a new strand of yarn, then pass the second stitch over it to decrease. Continue knitting in the round.
- Double strand join: Hold both strands of yarn together and knit the first stitch of the round with both strands. Drop one strand and continue knitting in the round with a single strand.
- Invisible join: Cut your yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread this tail through a tapestry needle and insert it into each remaining stitch on your needle as if you were purling them. Slip these stitches off onto your tapestry needle and pull tight to close any gaps.
- Grafting a stitch: Use Kitchener Stitch or another grafting technique to seamlessly join your last row of flat knitting with the first row of circular knitting.

Tips and tricks for seamless joins
We have gathered some helpful tips and tricks to ensure seamless joins when transitioning from flat knitting to knitting in the round.
- Keep your tension consistent throughout the project to avoid any gaps or loose stitches when joining in the round.
- Use a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of each round. This will help you keep track and prevent any confusion.
- Before joining in the round, make sure that your last stitch on the row is snugly placed next to the first stitch. This will help eliminate any gaps or jog in your work.
- When joining in the round, gently pull the working yarn to close up any potential gap between your last and first stitches.
- If using circular needles, make sure that your cable is long enough for comfortable knitting. A shorter cable can sometimes cause tension issues and affect smooth transitions.
- Take extra care when changing from straight needles to circular needles, ensuring that there are no loose stitches or gaps along the way.
- Use smaller – sized needles for your first few rounds after joining in the round. This will help tighten up any loose stitches and create a neater edge.
- If you prefer a more invisible join, consider using techniques like stitch swap join, add 1 decrease 1 join, double strand join, invisible join, or grafting a stitch.
Before you go…
After reading this guide, you now have several methods at your disposal for joining in the round after knitting flat. Whether you choose the stitch swap join, add 1 decrease 1 join, double strand join, invisible join, or grafting a stitch method, each technique will help you seamlessly transition from flat knitting to circular knitting.
With these step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you can close the gap and achieve a smooth and seamless join every time. Happy knitting!
FAQs
1. How do I join in the round after knitting flat?
To join in the round after knitting flat, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle as if to knit. Then, bring the working yarn behind the needles and knit the first stitch of your new round.
2. Can I use a circular needle to join in the round after knitting flat?
Yes, you can use a circular needle to join in the round after knitting flat. Simply follow the same steps mentioned earlier and continue working in a circular motion.