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Knitting a Cute Skater Skirt: A Simple Guide Using Automated Short Rows
Creating a skirt for a child is both fun and fulfilling, especially when using a knitting machine to help speed up the process. In this guide, I’ll explain how I knit a charming skirt for my daughter using automated short rows. Let’s get started!
Machine Requirements:
For this skirt pattern, you need an electronic knitting machine capable of handling a pattern width of 81 stitches. I used a KH 910 model equipped with an eKnitter mainboard, which supports wider patterns. This setup allows for greater flexibility in design, letting you create beautifully pieces.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: 3-ply, 50g, 416m, Needle size 2.0mm, Type: Cone
- Composition: 100% super combed cotton
- Color: Violet
I used 100g of the yarn and knitted in tension 4.2
Designing the Pattern
Designing the pattern for the skirt was straightforward and enjoyable. You don’t need complex software to make your pattern. I used Microsoft Paint because it’s simple, but GIMP or PhotoFiltre are good options if you prefer a grid setup.
The skirt is knitted sideways, which means you only knit one piece. Automated short rows simplify the knitting process. Here’s how you can do it:
Knitting the Skirt
Setting Up the Brother Machine:
- Begin with waste yarn: Knit some rows with waste yarn before starting your project. This helps to stabilize the stitches and prevent them from dropping when you switch to the final yarn. Ensure the waste yarn is securely closed in a loop.
- Position the carriage: Place the carriage on the left side of the machine. (But it could also be the right side depending on which side your waist part is placed)
- Start the actual knitting: Knit the first row using the KC II settings. From the second row onward, use the two-part buttons to activate the automated short rows.
- Tip for beginners: I have a video on my YouTube Channel for a different skirt. https://www.youtube.com/@eKnitter
Creating the Wide Triangle:
Design for fullness: To give the skirt a fuller look at the bottom, I designed a wide triangle pattern as in the video. This pattern consists of 81 stitches and 48 rows.
Gauge and Measurements
It’s crucial to ensure the skirt fits perfectly, which involves accurately measuring the gauge and your child’s dimensions.
- Gauge: My gauge in the waist area was 10 cm = 31.2 rows.
- Measurements: I measured my daughter at her waist, the widest part being 54 cm.
- Pattern Repeats: Based on these measurements, I repeated the pattern 42 times to reach the desired width.
Final Steps
Once the knitting part is complete, assemble the skirt by sewing the side seams (by hand) together. You can add an elastic waistband or a drawstring to enhance fit and finish.
Conclusion
Knitting a skirt using a knitting machine and automated short rows is a delightful project. With a little practice, you can create a beautiful, personalized garment that your child will treasure.
