Knitting a neckline—bind off or leave stitches on hold

Hello on the first Sunday of Advent...

Yesterday I watched a YouTube video on knitting necklines, and it explained how to place the stitches on hold for a rounded neckline instead of binding off. That seems quite sensible and practical to me, since I’ll be picking up or knitting up stitches again to finish the project… and it might actually be great (both practical and with a nice result) to simply use the held stitches.
Since I’ve never read about this in standard patterns (my pattern is from Filati / Lana Grossa), I’m unsure and would like to ask you all about it. Do you have any experience with this or any tips?

Best regards, ulli

Hi Ulli,
I’ve never done that myself. But after reading your post, I have to say that it’s definitely a great idea.
I can imagine that knitting the held-off stitches instead of picking up new ones would yield a much better result.
I’ll definitely give that a try.
Best regards, Petra

Hi Petra,

yes, I had the same good thoughts... here’s the link to the YouTube video (I hope I can post it—this is my first post here): Mod-Edit, link removed.

Best regards, ulli

Hello ulli-hammer,
welcome to our forum.
Unfortunately, I had to remove your link because external links are not allowed here, but you can send the link by PM = private message to ursulapetra if you’d like. 

I did that with my last slipover—it looks much neater!
When I knit from the top down, I’ve been using a provisional cast-on for a while now; it’s also prettier than having to pick up the stitches again afterward

Putting stitches on hold is much better than binding off; it looks neater and avoids that sometimes unsightly edge.
I think it’s described as “bind off” in most patterns because it’s easier to write.... Everyone knows what binding off is. Whereas with putting stitches on hold, you still have to explain which turning stitch and so on....
“More words = less space for ads” 😁

Hi... sorry, I hadn't read that... I think it's nice that you commented and explained it so kindly (instead of complaining or anything like that). Thanks :)

Dear Ulli,

I’ve always done it this way as a rule—for example, with children’s sweaters and jackets. It’s worked out well and creates a nice, clean transition.

I wish you the best of luck with your project.

Best regards,
Monika

@Ulli,
yes, of course. :-)

@everyone,
have a wonderful weekend and enjoy your crafting. 

Thanks, Josefa—I wish the same for you—and everyone here.