increasing stitches in pattern

by Karen
(Canada)

I have a pattern that is knit 2, purl 2 for each row, after 2 rows I am to add one stitch on begining and end of each row . I will now have 3 knit stitches (2 were knit stitches and now what does the third stitch become and how do I continue knit 2 and purl 2 if there is one stitch (the add on one)that nows throws the knit 2 purl 2 pattern off.

YOUR ANSWER

What I do is increase using a purl or a knit stitch depending on what the exisiting stitches are.

For example with your knit 2, purl 2 pattern assuming that the first two stitches on your left hand needle are the knit stitches, the increase stitches at that end of the row would be purl for the first and second increases, and knit stitches for the third and fourth increases.

Or to put it another way if your piece begins and ends with 2 knit stitches, increase one stitch at each end and turn for the next row.

Instead of purling three stitches at the beginning and end of that row, you would knit 1 (the increase stitch) purl 2, knit 2, purl 2 etc.

Then you just keep incorporating each new stitch into the existing pattern.