A knit triangle can be used as piece-work, or can be as big as a shawl. Learn to make this essential shape and how to use it in knitting.
Making a triangle in knitting is quick and easy. The following pattern can be used to make small triangles for piece-work, or it can be as big as a shawl.
Knitting a Triangle
Cast on two stitches using any cast-on method.
Row 1: Knit one, yarn over, knit one.
Row 2: Knit all the way across. There should now be three stitches on the needles.
Row 3: Knit one, yarn over, knit one, yarn over, knit one.
Row 4: Knit all the way across. There should now be five stitches on the needles.
Row 5: Knit one, yarn over, knit to last stitch, yarn over, knit one.
Row 6: Knit all the way across.
Continue in this pattern, repeating rows 5 and 6 until the triangle is of the desired size. Every other row (the odd rows) will increase the number of stitches by two. Every even row will secure the previous row.
Weave in the ends. Figure 1 illustrates a triangle made using this pattern.
Using Triangles
A multitude of great pieces can be freeform-designed using triangles. By changing yarn and needles, a triangle can be as small or as large as a knitter would like it to be. Triangles are a terrific tool to use to begin designing originals. The triangle shape lends itself well to tessellation. Try sketching out a few designs before connecting them.
Designing with One Triangle
- Potholder: Make a potholder out of one triangle with cotton yarn. Use either double knit or thick yarn to be sure the potholder is sturdy enough.
- Shawl: Make a shawl by continuing the pattern until a large triangle is made. The shawl can be very warm (using a yarn like chenille) or very delicate (using a fine yarn like silk.)
Designing with Multiple Triangles
Be sure to use the same size yarn and needles when working with multiple triangles that will be connected.
- Shawl: Make a number of smaller triangles, and connect them to make a lacy shawl. Big needles and small yarn will produce a lacier look.
- Scarf: Make a number of smaller triangles, and connect them (using the pattern of "one triangle right side up connected to one triangle upside-down, etc.") to make a scarf.
Designing with Tessellations
Depending on the size of the triangle, connecting them at a vertex constructs different shapes. For example, the given pattern should turn out equilateral triangles. Placing six equilateral triangles together will make a hexagon. (Figure 2)
- Hexagons: Triangles are the “connecting shape” when working with hexagons. Place hexagons around a triangle to make a piece that has more substance. (Figure 3)
- Diamonds: Knit two triangles of the same size to make a diamond. Diamonds can be connected beautifully in any number of ways. Staggering them works well. (Figure 4)
Tips When Working With Triangles
When making larger triangles, use circular needles; they hold heavy pieces well, and the triangle is much less likely to slip off the needles.
Use a weave stitch when connecting triangles. It helps to keep them even and to lie flat.
Show creativity off by coming up with an original design using triangles.
Note: Please double click on photos to see them in their entirety.
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