I like to use short rows and a three needle bind-off for my shoulders because I think it makes a tidy-looking seam. This may seem more complicated than binding off and seaming or grafting the shoulders. I chose this method because I think getting a nice-looking, non-lumpy shoulder seam is problematic for newer knitters. If you want to view them in a larger window, click on the video to be taken to youtube. First, short rows. I use a slightly different method than you may have seen.
I tend not to post any videos but my own, but this video on the tulip buttonhole from Interweave knits is not to be missed. If you’ve tried making a decent buttonhole, you’ll see the value in this immediately. It looks like a little trouble, but the result is so worth it.
Watch this video by Berocco on casting on. Watch the long tail cast on closely. Is this how you do it? After scooping the thumb yarn, I have always brought my needle over the top of the index finger yarn (clockwise) and though the thumb loop. In this video the narrator brings her needle under and over the top (counterclockwise) of the index finger yarn. I tried it a few times and think the difference is the way the loop lies on the needle–I think the Berocco way gives the stitch the proper twist. I am still working swatches to see if they look any different.
The Berocco videos, by the way, are terrific. You can get on their mailing list and get notified every time there’s a new one.
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