Jogless stripes: how to knit seamless stripes in the round

If you've ever knitted in the round, changing colors, you've probably encountered a small "jump" or unevenness right where each row begins. This effect, known as a jog , breaks the visual continuity of the stripes. But there's good news: with the jogless stripes technique, you can achieve a perfect, clean finish in both knitting and crochet.

Table of Contents

1. What are jogless stripes?
2. How to knit stripes without steps
3. How to Crochet Stepless Stripes
4. Tips for a clean color change
5. Projects where it can be applied

What are jogless stripes?

When knitting in the round, each row starts a few millimeters higher than the previous one, forming a spiral. When changing colors, this difference in height creates a visible jump where the rows join. Jogless stripes are a way to hide this gap and ensure the colored stripes are perfectly aligned.

How to knit stripes without steps

This method is used when knitting in the round with two needles (e.g. top-down sweaters, hats or sleeves).

👉 Classic method (for stockinette stitch)

1. Knit the first round with the new color as usual.
2. On the second row, using the same color, insert your right needle into the bottom row of the first stitch in the new color and knit them together. This way, you compensate for the height of the change and eliminate the jump.

👉 Alternative method (for wide stripes or garter stitch in the round)

1. Knit a full round with the new color.
2. On the next row, skip knitting the first stitch (transferring it to the right needle without knitting, with the yarn behind the work).
3. Continue knitting normally. This slight shift visually conceals the step.

📘 Tip: Avoid changing the color right on a seam or visible area; always place it on the back or under the sleeve.

How to Crochet Stepless Stripes

In crochet, the problem is similar, especially when crocheting in a spiral (without closing the loops). To achieve a clean color change:

👉 Spiral Crochet Method

1. Before closing the last stitch of the previous color, change the color in the last loop : make the last yarn over with the new color.
2. In the first stitch of the new color, work a slip stitch instead of a double or single crochet, and continue with your usual stitch. This smooths the transition.

👉 Method for crocheting with closing loops

1. Close the round with a slip stitch of the new color directly over the first stitch of the previous round.
2. Lift the rising chains with the new color and continue knitting normally. The change will be much cleaner and without a visible step.

Technique	Stepless color change
Knitting with two needles	Knit the first stitch of the second round, also taking the yarn from the previous round.
Spiral crochet	Change color on the last loop and continue with a slip stitch at the beginning.
Crochet hook with turn-back closure	Close with a slip stitch of the new color over the first stitch and go up with chains.

Tips for a clean color change

• Stretch the new thread slightly when starting to adjust the tension.
• Avoid cutting the thread at each stripe: tuck it inside the fabric if the stripes are frequent.
• Block the garment when finished; steaming or gentle washing helps even out the fabric and conceal any unevenness.

Projects where it can be applied

Jogless stripes are perfect for:

• Top-down sweaters knitted in the round.
• Striped hats or collars.
• Sleeves or socks with colored stripes.
• Crochet spiral mats or baskets.