How to knit stripes by carrying yarn

Published on September 8, 2026 by Sophie

Fed up of sewing in those pesky loose ends? Learn how to knit stripes by carrying yarn and you’ll never have to again!

Carrying yarn when you’re knitting stripes is a hassle-free technique that helps to keep your projects neat and tidy, as well as making it super easy to reintroduce colours with minimal fuss.

Not only is carrying yarn perfect for working stripes into your knits, it’s also useful for switching colours in other designs like Fair Isle. Best of all, you can switch up your yarn in just two simple steps.

How to knit stripes

Insert the right needle into the first stitch. Place the yarn to be carried over the working yarn.

Work the first stitch catching the second yarn.

Carry on knitting until it’s time for your next colour switch. You’ve nailed it!

Practice stripes with our perfect patterns

Striped Cushion Cover

Otto's Coat of Many Colours Dog Coat

Zebra Hat

Bag of Stripes

Stripes and Ladders

All About Stripes Baby Blanket

Shop Striped Patterns

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