Last updated on April 6th, 2026 at 12:27 pm
Looking for a stretchy bind off that mimics the long-tail cast-on? The sewn bind-off (aka casting on cast-off or outline stitch bind-off by Elizabeth Zimmermann) creates a thin, elastic edge perfect for scarves, hats, ribbing, lace, or stockinette. No puckering, just pro finishes flat or in the round.
Is sewn bind-off complicated? Not at all! It uses a tapestry needle to “sew” stitches in a knitwise-purlwise pattern. Master it in 5 steps.
Video Tutorial: Sewn Bind-Off Demo
Visual learner? Watch this sewn bind-off video (10-min demo).
What You’ll Need
Knitted piece (flat or in the round)
Tapestry/yarn needle
Working yarn tail (3x project width)
Scissors
Step-by-Step Sewn Bind-Off Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Thread
Cut yarn, leave tail 3x project width. Thread onto tapestry needle. Keep live stitches on needle.
Step 2: Knitwise into 2nd Stitch
Right side facing, yarn in front: Insert needle knitwise (left to right) into 2nd stitch. Pull through, leave on needle (yarn now back).
Step 3: Purlwise into 1st Stitch + Drop
Insert needle purlwise (right to left) into 1st stitch. Pull through and slide 1st stitch off needle—it’s bound off!
Step 4: Repeat Across Stitches
Knitwise into new 2nd stitch, purlwise into new 1st, drop. Continue until 1 stitch left.
Step 5: Finish Last Stitch (Flat or Round)
Flat: The last stitch is already secured once, you can drop it and weave in end.
Round: Find first bound-off stitch as “2nd stitch.” Knitwise into it, purlwise into last live stitch, drop both. Pull to join circle.
At last, we are done!
I hope I helped you to understand this binding-off knitting technique, and it didn’t look complicated. It will improve your knitting skills.
Thank you for reading! See you next time!
Thank you so much! I love a photo tutorial! I’m sorry but videos are annoying. Here I can scroll right to the part I need without excess jibber jabber,
Could you add a part on how to close last stitch like this when working flat? I can guess but you experienced folks have all the tricks!
Thanks, Carol