The Basic Bind-Off

Binding off is the process of taking the live stitches off of your needle and securing them so that they don't unravel.

The basic bind-off using knit stitches is the bind off that most beginners learn.  This version is typically worked from the knit side of the work in stockinette.  Alternatively, the purl version of this bind-off can be used from the purl side of the work.  In order to do the purl bind-off, follow the directions below substituting purl for knit stitches.

A variation of this bind off would be to alternate knit and purl stitches in pattern, such as to continue a ribbing or seed stitch pattern.  In this case, the directions below can be easily followed by substituting knit or purl stitches when working the stitches off of the left needle.

	Step 1: Knit the first 2 stitches of the row.
	Step 2: Insert the left needle into the first stitch on the right needle.
	Step 3: Pull the first stitch on the right needle over the second stitch and off the right needle. The second stitch will now be the only stitch on the right needle.
	Step 4: Knit the next stitch on the left needle so that there are now 2 stitches on the right needle.  (Picture shows about half a row bound off)  Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the end of the row. When all stitches in the row have been bound off, cut a tail at least 4" long (or as long as the pattern specifies) and pull this tail through the last stitch, pulling to secure the work.