are the "set up" stitches always necessary...

[Beth-TX]

...when your doing kitchener stitch?

I just finished knitting this sock pattern and after I finished, I looked at the description of how to graft the toe. The pattern seems to have eliminated the first 2 stitches (the purl, knit you do before you start the "knit, purl, purl, knit) you do to start grafting.

So, is this first step really necessary if your yarn is already attached to the sock? I passed this pattern on to a novice knitter friend and I'm wondering if I should send her a separate grafting tutorial as well.

Thanks.

peace, Beth

[spero]

I wouldn't take the chance. I always do kitchener stitch using the video on knittinghelp.com.

[lyttlewon]

I have always done it with the beginning like you describe, where you purl/knit & knit/purl without removing from the needles.