The duplicate stitch is worked over the finished knitted fabric. It is most often used on stocking stitch, and replicates the look of the stacked columns of V stitches. You can use the duplicate stitch in the same way you would use embroidery; by using a different colour you can add a decorative element to your project. Alternatively, the duplicate stitch creates a double layer of fabric, so if worked in the same colour as the base layer, it can add reinforcement to weaker areas of your project.
You will need yarn and tapestry needle. Here’s how to work it:
Step 1
Take a look at your fabric and identify the columns of knit stitches. They will look like stacked Vs. The duplicate stitch will lay over the top of these stitches, so choose which stitch you wish to start with.
Step 2
Thread the tapestry needle with your yarn. You can either secure the end of the yarn before you start, or leave a tail to weave in later. Bring the needle from back of the fabric to the front, at the bottom of your chosen V stitch.
Step 3
Following the stitch column up, skip one V then bring the needle behind both legs of the next stitch. Pull through and adjust tension so that yarn lies flat on the surface of the fabric. It should match the right leg (as you look at it) of the stitch you have chosen to duplicate.
Step 4
Return the needle from the front of the fabric to the back, through the bottom of the first V stitch. This is exactly the same place in the knitted fabric as you started in. Pull the yarn through, then adjust the tension of the left leg of the duplicate stitch, so that it matches the rest of the knitted fabric.
Repeat steps 2-4 for all the stitches you wish to duplicate. When done, weave in ends.
