Learn How to Do A Mattress Stitch [FREE Knitting Tutorial]

in Basic Knitting Tutorials

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Text area which says "Learn How to Do A Mattress Stitch, learnknittingonline.com" followed by a two blue knitted fabric being sewn together using the mattress stitch There are many different seaming techniques that you can use. However, for joining the sides of two Stockinette Stitch pieces together, we recommend using the Mattress Stitch.

The Mattress Stitch creates a vertical seam that is invisible. In fact, it makes the knitting appear continuous even though you have knitted the pieces flat.

To make it easier to sew the two pieces together, we recommend that you block your pieces first. This will make the edges smoother and easier to seam.

In addition, we recommend that you use your knitting yarn to sew the pieces together. However, if you have used a yarn that is not very strong, like mohair, a novelty yarn, etc. this yarn may not be suitable for seaming.

In this case, use a smooth, firm yarn that is in a compatible color. It does not have to be an exact match as, remember, the seam will be virtually invisible.

On the other hand, if you have left a long tail from your cast-on row, you can use this strand to begin seaming.

In the drawings below, we have used a contrast color for illustration purposes only.

Step-By-Step Mattress Stitch Knitting Tutorial

Make sure that the right sides of both knitted pieces are facing you.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch Step 1: Two blue knitted fabrics laid side by side.

Method 1: Using the Yarn Tail

Thread the needle and insert it from back to front into the corner stitch of the piece without the yarn tail.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch, using the yarn tail Step 1: Tapestry needle with the yarn tail threaded in, being inserted in the corner of a knitted fabric.

Method 2: NOT Using the Yarn Tail

Start by weaving in the yarn tail so it does not get in the way. Then thread the needle with the yarn you are going to use for sewing. Pick one corner (we suggest the one on the right-hand side). In the corner, insert the needle from back to front.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch, not using the yarn tail Step 1: Tapestry needle with the a red yarn threaded in, being inserted in the corner of a knitted fabric.

Making a figure eight with the yarn, insert the needle from back to front into the corner stitch of the opposite piece. Tighten to close the gap.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch Step 2: Tapestry needle with the a red yarn threaded in from left knitted fabric to right, creating a number eight figure.

To continue seaming, insert the yarn needle under the first horizontal bar/strand on the right-hand piece. Make sure that you use the bar/strand that is between the edge stitch and the adjoining stitch.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch Step 4: Tapestry needle with the a red yarn threaded in inserted on the first horizontal bar on the knitted fabric to the right.

Insert the yarn needle under the corresponding bar/strand on the other piece.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch Step 5: Tapestry needle with the a red yarn threaded in inserted on the first horizontal bar on the knitted fabric to the left.

To make a firm, strong seam, continue alternating from side to side, making sure you sew under each bar/strand on both sides.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch Step 6: Tapestry needle with the a red yarn threaded in inserted on one of the top most horizontal bar on the knitted fabric to the right.

Make sure to pull the yarn tight every inch or so. If you are a metric user, that is about every 2.5 cm. You should ensure that the yarn is tight enough to draw the two edges together. However, it should be loose enough for the seam to still stretch a little.

How to Sew Mattress Stitch Step 7: Two pieces of blue knitted fabric sewn together using the mattress stitch.

Once the seam is completed, weave in the end(s).

Enjoyed this tutorial? Why not check out our other tutorial on how to join yarns when knitting?

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3 Comments

  1. Mary Ann Bergeron
    February 6, 2021 at 18:57  ·  Reply

    Great visual technique for the mattress stitch. I am just finishing a sweater that recommends using this stitch. Very timely fir me 😊🧶🧶🧶🧶. Thank you so much. Your newsletter is awesome.

  2. Stella
    September 18, 2021 at 08:52  ·  Reply

    Nice clear graphics. Good explanation for a straight join – any advice on joining raglan seams?
    I find it difficult to follow the stitch line because of the decreases. Any help much appreciated. Thanks

  3. Hanneke Biewenga
    June 23, 2022 at 16:43  ·  Reply

    Very clear and easy to follow. I tried to use it before and failed. But followed your instructions and it looks perfect. Thank you so much

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