A stitch marker is a small item, usually a ring, that is used to indicate pattern changes in a knitted or crocheted piece. They are most commonly used when making hats, socks, lace (open work), fair isle and other intricate patterns. "Stitch markers are to knitting/crocheting as bookmarks are to books. They are place holders that are used over and over again for various projects." I thought that one up all by myself! :)
Pattern Changes WITHIN a Row, i.e.
Do the next rows 1 to 10 in this manner (K stands for knit, P for purl):
Row 1: K7, then place a marker here to designate the side border, P to the last 7 stitches, place another marker, then K7.
Row 2: K.
Row 3: K7, P to marker, place another marker, K7.
Row 4: K.
Row 5: Same as Row 3 (K7, P to marker, place another marker, K7).
Rows 6 to 10: K.
Mark Beginning of Rows, i.e.
With 16" needle, cast on 90 (96,102) sts (stitches).
Join and work in the rnd (round).
Place marker here to denote beginning of rnd.
Work in stockinette st (knit every rnd) for 6".
Mark Pattern Changes at EACH Row, i.e.
Zig Zag Lace
Row 1 and all odd rows (WS): Purl [place marker marked #1, #3, #5, #7, #9, #11 or A, C, E, G, I, J]
Rows 2, 4, and 6: *YO, K2tog; rep from * [place marker marked #2, #4, #6 or B, D, F]
Rows 8, 10, and 12: *Slip 1, K1, Pass Slipped Stitch Over, YO; rep from *
There are different styles of stitch markers depending on an individual's taste, creativity and budget.
Most retail yarn and craft stores offer markers from the popular accessories companies like Clover and Wrights Boye.
They are practical, sturdy and perfect for the budget minded.
More frugal knitters/crocheters may opt to use a simple piece of yarn, tiny rubberbands or sections of a cut up drinking straw as markers. *ugh* How unattractive!?
Myself! I prefer to use beaded stitch markers that lend beauty and creativity to my knitting projects. They are jewelry for your needles!
I have several handmade sets on sale at my eBay Store: stores.ebay.com/GirleyPurls
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