How to Knit the Tubular Bind Off

The Tubular Bind Off Knitting Technique

About this technique


The tubular bind off is a sewn bind off which creates an invisible edge on 1×1 ribbing that perfectly matches the tubular cast on. Similar to the Kitchener stitch seam, this technique seamlessly connects stitches from the right and wrong side of the fabric. The result is a clean, rolled looking edge with a professional finish. The tubular bind off is a great technique to use when finishing brims on hats and cuffs on sleeves or socks. Plus it is very stretchy.

Also known as: Kitchener Rib Bind Off

Cast On Match: Italian Cast On

Skill: Intermediate

[VIDEO] How to do this technique


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Technique Instructions


  • Prep Row 1: Knit the knits and slip the purls with yarn in front.
  • Prep Row 2: Knit the knits and slip the purls with yarn in front.
  • NOTE: You will need a tail that is 3-4 times the length of your finished edge.
  • Step 1: With your waste yarn threaded through a tapestry needle, insert the needle into the first stitch on your main needle purlwise and pull all the way through. Drop the stitch from the main needle.
    NOTE: If the first stitch is a purl stitch, insert the needle through the first two stitches and drop them both.
  • Step 2: Insert your tapestry needle in the next purl stitch on your main needle knitwise and pull tight. (It should be the first stitch on your main needle). Leave this stitch on the main needle.
  • Step 3: Insert your tapestry needle into the dropped knit stitch, purlwise, and through the next knit stitch on your main needle (it should be the second stitch on your main needle) and pull tight.
  • Step 4: Insert your tapestry needle into the purl stitch on your main needle again, this time going purlwise. Pull tight.
  • Step 5: Drop both the purl and knit stitch from your main needle.

Repeat steps 2 – 5 until you have bound off all your stitches.

Example Photos