How to Knit a Stretchy Bind Off

In this post I’m going to show you how to knit a stretchy bind off step by step for a regular knit bind off and a rib bind off.

This knitting technique will help you create a very stretchy edge. This extra stretch is handy when binding off the cuffs of sweaters, socks, mittens and necklines, not to mention the brims of hats.

Anytime you need a very stretchy edge, look no further than this bind off!

Stretchy Bind Off Vs. Regular Bind Off

While a regular bind off provides some stretch, it can’t compare to a stretchy bind off.

Just take a look at this comparison of the two bind offs.

When stretched to maximum capacity, the regular bind off measures 9”

However, when the same knitting is bound off with the stretchy bind off, it measures 12”! That’s a 33% increase in stretch!

Bind Off Considerations

You don’t get this incredible amount of stretch without some trade-offs though.

One of the downsides of this bind off involve flaring.

The flaring occurs at the edges of the bind off. While it’s not extremely noticeable, eagle-eyed perfectionists may not like the look of the flare.

Stretchy Bind Off Video Tutorial

Stretchy Bind Off Step-by-Step

1. Knit two stitches. Push the left needle into the two stitches through the front. 
2. Then knit the two stitches together.
3. Now there’s one stitch on the right needle. Knit another stitch so you’ve got two stitches.
4. Knit those two stitches together through the front.

Continue in this manner until you have one stitch left. Cut the yarn loose leaving a 5-10 inch tail.

Weave the tail through the last stitch et voila you have a stretchy bind off!

Rib Stretchy Bind Off Step-by-Step

For a rib stretchy bind off: as a rule of thumb, remember to knit the knits and purl the purls

1. Knit or purl the first two stitches (depending on if they are a knit or a purl stitch)
2. Depending on the last stitch, either knit those last two stitches together or purl the last two stitches together
3. Now there’s one stitch on the right needle. Knit or purl the next stitch so you have two stitches on the right needle.
4. Depending on the last stitch, either knit or purl the two stitches together

Continue in this manner until you have one stitch left. Cut the yarn, leaving a robust tail.

Weave through the last stitch and you’re done!