Weaving in ends

Weaving in ends is an essential finishing step in stocking making. You see, the inside of your stocking will be seen so it is important to secure loose yarn tails - not just o prevent your work from unraveling, but so the inside of your stocking looks neat and tidy.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to weaving ends neatly and securely.

You’ll Need
Tapestry needle (blunt tip)

Your knitted stocking (flat, before seaming)

Step-by-Step Guide
Thread the Yarn Tail
Cut the yarn, leaving a tail at least 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Thread the tail through the eye of a tapestry needle.

Choose a Weaving Path
For smooth, invisible weaving, follow the direction of the stitches (horizontally for rows, vertically for columns).

Avoid pulling too tight—this can distort the fabric.

Weave Horizontally 
On the wrong side, run the needle under the "bars" between stitches (the little bumps in garter stitch or the back of stockinette).

Weave back and forth for at least 2 inches (5 cm) to secure.

For extra security, change direction once before trimming.

Weave Vertically (for Ribbing or Seams)
Run the needle up or down along a column of stitches, slipping it inside the "legs" of the stitches.

Repeat in the opposite direction to lock the yarn in place.

For Colorwork (Stranded or Intarsia)
Weave ends along the same color to avoid visible shadows.

If joining a new yarn, weave both the old and new tails in opposite directions.

Trim Excess Yarn
After weaving, gently tug the fabric to ensure the tail doesn’t pull loose.

Trim close to the fabric, but leave a tiny bit to prevent unraveling.

Pro Tips for Neat Finishing
Weave as you go – Attach new yarn by knitting a few stitches with both old and new yarn held together, then weave in the ends later.
Avoid knots – They can come undone or create bumps.
Block after weaving – Helps hide the ends completely.

Final Check
Turn your work right side out—if you can see the yarn tail, adjust your weaving path.

Gently stretch the fabric to ensure nothing pops loose.

Now your knitting is secure and tidy! No more frayed edges or unraveling. Happy finishing!