Thrum It Your Way: Exploring Thrumming Techniques for Knitting with Locks
If you’ve ever wanted to add texture, warmth, or a bit of wild flair to your knitting, thrumming with locks is a magical way to do just that. But did you know there’s more than one way to thrum? The method you choose can totally change the look, feel, and functionality of your finished piece. So let’s dive into my favorite technique and how I used it in my pattern.
What Is Thrumming, Anyway?
At its core, thrumming is the art of working extra fiber—often wool locks—into your knitting. Traditionally used in mittens to create a fluffy, insulating interior, thrumming has evolved into a creative technique that adds texture and warmth to all kinds of projects. The way you thrum depends largely on the end use of the item, and how dense or decorative you want the result to be.
Thrum Technique #1: Tail Thrumming for a Boa
For something decorative, like a textured boa, I used tail thrumming.
Here’s the method:
- Lay the Tail: Place at least 4 cm of the lock’s tail through the needles. You can leave your locks long on the front or shorten them by placing more than 4 cm through your needles.
2. Knit to Secure: Knit the tail end of the lock together with your main yarn to lock it into place. You need to lock the tail in over the next 2 stitches.
This creates a beautiful trailing effect, allowing the locks to flow freely while staying securely attached. It’s a great way to showcase the natural beauty of the fiber without adding too much bulk.
3. Knit the next row, making sure to catch both the chunky yarn and the tails when you knit the thrummed stitches.
Every alternate row is knit, the boa is only knitted in garter stitch throughout. So you don’t need to be an experienced knitter for your boa to be stunning. It is your locks that will make your boa stunning.
This technique firmly secures the locks into your knitting, while giving your boa texture and movement, tail thrumming is the way to go for this boa.
Whether you’re making a functional winter piece or a whimsical accessory, there’s a thrum technique to match your vision. Try them both and see which one you love most!
Happy thrumming!
