So, what are German short rows? In essence, German short rows are a technique used to create shape in knitting without having to knit every row back and forth. They involve using a marker to indicate the turning point of the row, and then turning the work to create a partial row. The remaining stitches are left unworked, and a new row is started from the turning point. This process is repeated until the desired shape is achieved.

The advantages of German short rows are numerous. First and foremost, they create a smooth, seamless shape without leaving any holes or gaps in the knitting. They are also relatively easy to execute, making them accessible to intermediate-level knitters. Additionally, they are versatile and can be used for shaping a variety of different projects, from shawls to sweaters to socks.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using German short rows. For one, they can be tricky to execute at first, particularly if you're not familiar with short row techniques in general. Additionally, they may require some trial and error to get the shaping just right, particularly if you're working with a complex pattern or design.

So, when should you use German short rows? They are particularly useful for creating shaping in areas where you want a smooth and seamless look, such as the shoulders of a sweater or the heel of a sock. They can also be used to create subtle shaping in other areas, such as the neckline or waistline of a garment.

The link below takes you to a fantastic PDF download that gives step-by-step instructions for German Short Row shaping.  This PDF is compliments of https://www.lamaisonrililie.com/

Download the PDF and get some scrap yarn and give this a try - practice makes perfect 😉 and you will love the results once you have mastered this technique.