How To Bind Off in the Round

Binding off is an important final step in any knitting project, but when knitting in the round, the process is slightly different. Knitting in the round creates a seamless tube, ideal for toe-up socks, sleeves, and cowls. But how do you bind off in the round without creating a messy edge with gaps or bumps?

It’s easy once you get the hang of it, but it can be tricky at first. Don’t worry! In this post, I’ll focus specifically on how to bind off in the round and walk you through the steps. With the right method and a few helpful tips, you’ll achieve a clean, polished edge every time.

Let’s get started!

Why Binding Off in the Round is Unique

Binding off, or casting off, in the round is a special technique that differs from the standard bind-off used in flat knitting. The uniqueness comes from the fact that, when knitting in the round, you’re working on a continuous loop. This loop allows you to create seamless tubes, such as hats, sleeves, or cowls, without any edges or joins between rows. However, this also means there is no traditional starting or ending point for your final row, which makes binding off in the round a bit more complex than in flat knitting.

In flat knitting, you typically reach the end of your row and bind off in a straight line. But with circular knitting, you must bind off in a way that connects the start and end of the round seamlessly. Failing to do so can result in an awkward gap or a noticeable jog at the connection point, which can disrupt the smooth, continuous edge that circular knitting aims to achieve.

A knitted piece showing the bind off edge with knitting needles and a stitch marker on the background
When binding off in the round, you want to achieve a flexible and seamless bind-off edge.

Additionally, when casting off in the round, you need to ensure that the edge is flexible, especially if you’re working on a project that requires elasticity, such as a sock cuff or the brim of a hat. A too-tight bind-off could create puckering or make the edge too small to fit comfortably. On the other hand, a bind-off that’s too loose may result in a floppy, untidy finish.

The key to a successful bind-off in the round is to create a smooth, even edge that merges naturally into the rest of the project. You need to maintain a balanced tension throughout the bind-off and ensure that the last stitch of the round connects neatly with the first, creating a seamless and polished look.

Whether you’re new to knitting in the round or just looking to improve your technique, mastering this skill is essential. Also, make sure to check out the easy instructions for joining in the round in knitting.

How To Bind Off in the Round Step by Step

Let’s walk through the process of binding off in the round, step by step.

Step 1: Knit the First Two Stitches

Start by knitting the first two stitches as usual. These stitches will form the base of your bind-off edge.

Knitting the first two stitches when binding off in the round
Knit the first two stitches as usual.

Step 2: Pass the First Stitch Over the Second

Use your left-hand needle to lift the first stitch you knitted. Then, pass it over the second stitch and drop it off the needle. Now, you’ll have one stitch remaining on your right-hand needle.

Lifting the first knitted stitch with the left-hand needle when binding off in the round
Insert your left-hand needle to lift the first stitch you knitted.
Passing the first knitted stitch over the second stitch when binding off in the round
Pass the first stitch over the second one and drop it off the needle.

Step 3: Knit the Next Stitch

Knit the next stitch from the left-hand needle. This will give you two stitches on your right-hand needle again.

A knitted piece on circular needles with a flamingo-shaped stitch marker
Knit the next stitch from the left-hand needle.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

Repeat this sequence: pass the first stitch over the second, then knit another stitch. Continue this process around the round. Make sure to keep a relaxed tension as you go.

A knitted piece with several bind off stitches on circular needles
Repeat the same steps around the round.

Step 5: The Last Stitch

When you reach the final stitch, you’ll notice that it connects to the beginning of your bind-off round. Cut your yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the yarn through the last stitch and pull tight to secure the edge.

Pulling the yarn through the last stitch of a finished bind off edge
Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.
A finished bind off edge on a circular knitting project
Pull the yarn through the last stitch.

Step 6: Closing the Round Without Gaps

As mentioned earlier, a small gap often appears at the end of the bind-off round. Here’s how to create a seamless finish without any gap:

Insert the tapestry needle from front to back under both legs of the first bind-off stitch and pull the needle through.

Inserting a tapestry needle through the first bind off stitch to create a seamless finish
Insert the tapestry needle from front to back under both legs of the first bind-off stitch.

Then insert the needle into the center of the last bind-off stitch and pull the needle through to the back of your knitting.

Inserting a tapestry needle through the last bind off stitch to eliminate the gap
Insert the tapestry needle into the center of the last bind-off stitch.
A finished bind off edge on a project knitted in the round
When you close the round with a tapestry needle, you’ll achieve a seamless finish without any gap.

Step 7: Weaving in the Ends

To finish, use a tapestry needle to weave in the loose yarn ends. This helps secure your bind-off and hides any visible tails. Make sure to weave in your yarn on the inside of your project to maintain a clean outer look. You can check the detailed instructions for how to weave in ends here.

Stretchy Bind-Offs in the Round

Certain projects, like cowls, sleeves, or socks, require more stretch at the bind-off edge. A standard bind-off can sometimes feel too stiff or restrict movement, which is not ideal for areas that need flexibility, like cowls or necklines. If your project requires a more flexible finish, consider using a stretchy bind-off technique. These methods allow the edge to stretch and spring back, providing comfort and elasticity without losing the shape.

Here are two of the most common stretchy bind-offs that work great when knitting in the round:

  1. Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind-Off: This method is a favorite among knitters because it provides a very flexible edge while maintaining a neat appearance. It’s perfect for toe-up socks, cowls, or anything where stretch is needed. Jeny’s bind-off works by incorporating extra yarn into each stitch with a yarn over, which allows for extra give without sacrificing the structure.
  2. Classic Stretchy Bind Off: The classic stretchy bind-off is another excellent option for circular projects. It offers a balanced blend of stretch and sturdiness. The technique involves knitting two stitches together through the back loops, which creates a flexible yet firm edge. It’s great for projects like hats or sleeves where you want a bit of stretch without an overly loose bind-off.

Make sure to check out the detailed instructions with images for the the classic stretchy bind off here and for Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off here.

Another relatively stretchy bind off is the i-cord bind off, which creates a decorative, rounded edge on your knitting. You can find the step-by-step instructions for how to knit the i-cord bind off in the round here.

Knitted fabric showing two different types of bind off edges
Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off (above) and classic stretchy bind off (below) are nice and easy-to-knit bind-offs for when knitting in the round.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Binding Off in the Round

While the steps are simple, there are a few mistakes you might run into when binding off in the round. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Binding Off Too Tightly

A common problem when binding off in the round is making the stitches too tight. If the bind-off edge is too firm, your project may pucker or lose its elasticity. This is especially problematic for items like cowls, cuffs, or necklines, where flexibility is key.

Solution: To avoid tight stitches, keep your tension relaxed. You can also switch to a larger needle size when binding off, which will naturally loosen your stitches. If you need more elasticity, you can opt for a stretchy bind-off instead of the basic bind-off described above. Check out how to knit stretchy bind off in the round here.

2. Gaps at the Join

When knitting in the round, a small gap can appear where the bind-off round meets the beginning. This can make your project look uneven.

Solution: After cutting your yarn and pulling it through the last stitch, use the tapestry needle to join the end of the round to the first bind-off stitch. You can do this by threading the yarn through the first and the last stitch and pulling it tight to close the gap. See the detailed instructions above in step 6.

A bind off edge showing a gap at the join
If you don’t join the first and the last stitch of the round, you will end up with a visible gap.

3. Uneven Edge

Sometimes, binding off in the round can result in an uneven or bumpy edge. This usually happens due to inconsistent tension or pulling on the yarn too tightly.

Solution: Pay attention to your tension throughout the process. A smooth, even tension ensures a clean edge. If the edge is still uneven, gently block your project afterward to help even out the stitches. Check out the instructions for how to block knitting here.

Troubleshooting Bind-Off Issues

Even with practice, you may encounter a few hiccups while binding off in the round. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common issues:

Uneven Tension

If your bind-off looks wavy or uneven, it’s likely due to inconsistent tension. Try to keep the tension relaxed but consistent throughout the bind-off round. Don’t pull the yarn too tightly or let it become too loose.

Twisting at the Edge

Sometimes, the bind-off edge can twist, causing the final edge to look wonky. This can happen if the stitches are pulled too tightly during the bind-off process.

Solution: Gently stretch out the edge with your hands after binding off. This will help to relax the stitches and remove any twists.

You can find more tips for how to bind off knitting here and how to fix common issues when casting off.

A knitting project showing how to bind off in the round
Binding off in the round with an even tension will result in a smooth and neat bind-off edge.

Final Thoughts

Mastering how to bind off in the round is a game-changer for your knitting projects. It may seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference in the final look of your project. Whether you’re working on a cowl, sleeve, or any other circular knit, this technique helps you achieve a smooth, polished finish.

By following the steps outlined in this post, you’ll be able to bind off in the round with ease and confidence. Don’t forget to watch your tension and close any gaps to ensure a neat edge. With practice, you’ll get the hang of it and finish every circular project beautifully. Now that you know how to bind off in the round, you’re ready to take on more knitting challenges.

Happy knitting!

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