Short rows are created by turning the work mid‑row, allowing you to shape the fabric by creating extra length exactly where you need it without adding stitches. This technique is commonly used for shaping and curving knit sections (such as sock heels, gussets, bust shaping, and shoulders) or for creating geometric forms like triangles, circles, and half‑circles. You may also hear them called partial rows or turning rows.
There are several ways to work short rows - Wrap & Turn, Yarn Over, Japanese, German, and others. Although each method looks a little different, the underlying concept is the same, and you can easily substitute one technique for another if you prefer.
In my Elephant Pillow pattern, I used German Short Rows to shape the curved trunk. This method works especially well in garter stitch and in circular knitting, which is why it was the perfect fit for this project.
How to Work German Short Rows
- Knit to the turning point and turn your work.
- Slip the first stitch purl‑wise with yarn in front.
- Pull the working yarn firmly up and over the needle to the back (this creates the double stitch).
- Later, when you encounter this double stitch, knit or purl it as a single stitch.
Here is my demonstration of German short rows in garter stitch, featuring the Josefina & Jeffery Elephant Pillow pattern.
And in this video, I show how to turn on both knit and purl sides to create double stitches in stockinette. The slipped stitch is always worked with yarn in front, whether you’re on the right side or wrong side.
