Short Row Shaping
  Shaping a Neck Opening
 
This is the method we prefer when shaping a neck opening rather than binding off stitches. It produces a neck opening with the proper stretch, and eliminates the seam between the sweater body and rib, created when picking up stitches. We highly recommend this method, and believe that once you're comfortable with it you will want to use it for other projects as well.

 
Work up to the row where the neck shaping begins. One side of the neck opening and shoulder will be worked at a time.

If you are starting a knit row, follow the directions at the right for knit-row shaping.

If you are starting a purl row, follow the directions for purl-row shaping.

The visible wrap stitches will be eliminated on the first row when finishing the neck. See hiding the wraps.
Knit-Row Shaping
Knit across to the beginning of the neck opening.
Knit-Row Shaping 1   Knit-Row Shaping 2
1) With the yarn in back, slip the next stitch purlwise.   2) Bring the yarn between the
needles to the front.
Knit-Row Shaping 3   Knit-Row Shaping 4
3) Slip the same stitch back to the left needle.   4) Turn the work, bringing yarn to
the purl side between the needles.
 Knit-Row Shaping 5  
5) Slip the stitches to be placed on hold onto a same size circular needle.  

Purl back to the sleeve edge, using the needle with the working stitches and the circular needle. Continue shaping the neck in this manner, following steps 1-4. To work the other side of the neck opening, start from the sleeve edge and follow the directions for purl-row shaping. You will need to attach your yarn at the sleeve edge.

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