Whether knitting or crocheting, you need a bit of equipment to make the project successful and progress efficiently!
So I invite you to discover the uses of a very handy little tool: the marker!
We’re obviously not talking about a felt-tip pen but the small ring used to mark your stitches... So let’s get to know this little tool better!
What is a marker?
A marker is a small accessory (ring, loop, or clip) placed on the needle or directly on a stitch to mark a strategic spot, like the start of a round, an increase/decrease, or a cable pattern.
The marker is essential to avoid recounting stitches, it helps structure the work and quickly spot mistakes.
The marker is truly a must-have in the knitter's kit but also for crocheters, whether beginner or experienced.
What are they used for in knitting?
Markers are essential tools for:
- mark key points like the beginning of rows
- separate sections (for example, between cables or lace)
- count stitches or rows without error.
Placed on the needle or directly on the knitting, they make it easier to:
- tracking patterns,
- increases/decreases (raglan).
To mark the top of the sock and to count the number of rows
Here, used to mark the pattern repeat
Markers are essential in circular knitting to know when a round ends.
They can also be used to temporarily hold two knitted pieces together, acting like sewing clips to align the edges, clever!
Last but not least, they are super useful to secure a dropped stitch while you catch it.
What are stitch markers used for in crochet?
Crochet stitch markers are essential tools to mark the beginning/end of rounds, especially in spiral crochet when making amigurumis. <
They allow, as in knitting:<
- to count stitches/rows,
- to spot increases or decreases
- Secure the work: Lock the active stitch to prevent the piece from unraveling when you take a break
- for temporary assembly.
- they can also serve as reminders when you need to change stitch
To spot the increase points
To remember to change stitches
Types of stitch markers :
1. Closed rings: Slide onto the needle between two stitches.
2. Open markers or "bulbs": Attach directly to the stitch, useful for crochet or to mark a specific stitch.
Be careful, closed markers are only used for knitting.
Removable marker (for crochet and knitting)
Closed marker (knitting only)
Last use: decorative!
Céline, our granny crochet enthusiast, loves to use them as brooches on her cardigans! At the same time, we can understand her—they are so cute.
So, do you know about stitch markers too? Do you already use them?
Find all our collections of stitch markers here.
And for those who want to learn crochet or knitting, this way!
Get your needles and hooks ready!
