Quick answer: Slip the first stitch of every row purlwise (wyif on purl rows, wyib on knit rows) and knit the last stitch. This creates a chain of loops along both edges.
What it is
A selvedge is a deliberate treatment of edge stitches for a tidy, consistent border. The slip stitch selvedge creates a chain at both edges that makes seaming easier and edges look intentional.
When to use it
- Any flat knitting you plan to seam
- Scarves and shawls where both edges are visible
- When edges look uneven or messy
How to do it
- On knit rows (RS): slip 1 wyib (yarn in back), knit to last stitch, k1.
- On purl rows (WS): slip 1 wyif (yarn in front), purl to last stitch, p1.
- That's it — the chain forms automatically at both edges.
Common mistakes
- Slipping with yarn in wrong position — creates a twist
- Slipping the last stitch too — only slip the first, knit the last
- Forgetting on some rows — consistency is what makes the chain even