Exploring Neck Types and Techniques for Knitting on Flat Bed Machines

helenB-a
2 days ago
4 min read

Knitting necklines on flat bed machines offers a wide range of creative possibilities for garment makers. The neck area is a critical design element that affects both the look and comfort of a finished piece. Understanding different neck types and the techniques to knit them efficiently on flat bed machines can elevate your knitting projects. This post explores common neck styles, how to create them, and tips to achieve professional results.

Close-up eye-level view of a flat bed knitting machine working on a ribbed crew neck sweater — Flat bed machine knitting a ribbed crew neck

Common Neck Types for Flat Bed Machine Knitting

When knitting garments on flat bed machines, the neck shape influences the garment’s style and fit. Here are some popular neck types you can create:

Crew Neck

The crew neck is a classic round neckline that sits close to the base of the neck. It is one of the simplest necklines to knit on flat bed machines and works well for sweaters and t-shirts.

Technique: Use short rows or bind off stitches at the center front to shape the curve.
Details: Ribbing is often added to the neck edge for elasticity and neat finish.
Example: A ribbed crew neck on a cotton sweater provides a clean, casual look.

V-Neck

The V-neck creates a pointed neckline that dips down in the front, offering a flattering shape for many body types.

Technique: Decrease stitches symmetrically on both sides of the center front to form the V shape.
Details: You can add ribbing or a band to reinforce the neckline.
Example: A fine gauge wool sweater with a deep V-neck is elegant and versatile.

Boat Neck

The boat neck is a wide, shallow neckline that runs horizontally across the collarbone.

Technique: Knit the front and back pieces with a wider neck opening, shaping the shoulder slopes accordingly.
Details: This neckline often requires careful shaping to maintain the wide opening without stretching.
Example: A lightweight knit top with a boat neck offers a relaxed, sophisticated style.

Scoop Neck

The scoop neck features a deep, rounded curve that exposes more of the chest area.

Technique: Use short rows or stitch decreases to create a smooth, deep curve.
Details: Reinforce the neckline with a narrow rib or band to prevent stretching.
Example: A scoop neck cotton sweater is perfect for layering or warmer weather.

Turtleneck and Mock Neck

These necks extend upward to cover the neck partially or fully.

Technique: Knit the neck separately or continue from the body, using ribbing for stretch and fit.
Details: Turtlenecks require longer knitting and careful shaping to fit comfortably.
Example: A ribbed turtleneck on a wool sweater adds warmth and style.

Techniques for Shaping Necks on Flat Bed Machines

Flat bed machines offer several methods to shape necklines precisely. Here are key techniques used by knitters:

Short Rows

Short rows allow you to add extra fabric in specific areas, creating curves without increasing stitches.

Use: Ideal for shaping scoop and crew necks.
How: Knit partial rows, then turn the work before reaching the end, creating a wedge of extra fabric.
Tip: Use wrap and turn or tuck methods to avoid holes.

Stitch Decreases

Decreasing stitches gradually shapes the neckline edges.

Use: Essential for V-necks and boat necks.
How: Use standard decrease techniques like k2tog or ssk on the machine.
Tip: Decrease evenly on both sides for symmetrical necklines.

Binding Off and Casting On

Binding off stitches at the neckline creates the opening, while casting on stitches can add neckbands or collars.

Use: Used in all neck types to finish edges or add bands.
How: Bind off stitches manually or with machine settings; cast on using the machine’s cast-on methods.
Tip: Use elastic bind-offs for stretch and comfort.

Ribbing and Neckbands

Adding ribbing or neckbands improves elasticity and appearance.

Use: Common for crew necks, turtlenecks, and mock necks.
How: Knit ribbing on the machine or separately and attach.
Tip: Match ribbing gauge to body fabric for smooth transitions.

Picking Up Stitches

Picking up stitches around the neckline allows you to add collars or finishing bands after the main body is knitted.

Use: Useful for adding neckbands or collars after garment assembly.
How: Use a latch tool or machine to pick up stitches evenly.
Tip: Pick up stitches carefully to avoid uneven edges.

Practical Tips for Knitting Necks on Flat Bed Machines

Achieving professional necklines requires attention to detail and practice. Here are some tips to improve your results:

Swatch Neck Shaping: Practice shaping techniques on swatches before working on the final garment.
Gauge Consistency: Maintain consistent tension to avoid uneven neck edges.
Use Stitch Markers: Mark center front and shoulder points to guide shaping.
Plan Neck Depth: Measure and plan the neckline depth to suit the garment style and wearer.
Finish Edges Neatly: Use ribbing, bands, or bind-offs that complement the fabric stretch.
Experiment with Yarns: Different yarns behave differently; test neck shaping with your chosen yarn.
Document Settings: Keep notes on machine settings and techniques for repeatability.

Examples of Neck Types in Flat Bed Machine Projects

To illustrate these neck types and techniques, here are some project examples:

Ribbed Crew Neck Sweater: Knit a cotton sweater with a ribbed crew neck using short rows for shaping and ribbing for the neckband.
Deep V-Neck Wool Pullover: Use stitch decreases to form a sharp V-neck, finishing with a narrow ribbed band.
Boat Neck Linen Top: Shape a wide neckline by knitting front and back with extended neck openings, reinforced with a narrow band.
Scoop Neck Summer Top: Create a deep scoop neck with short rows and finish with a narrow ribbed edge for stretch.
Turtleneck Winter Sweater: Knit a long ribbed turtleneck collar directly on the machine, ensuring comfortable fit and stretch.