How to Knit an M1 Increase (M1L vs M1R) for Beginners
Learning how to increase stitches is a milestone for every knitter. Whether you’re shaping a sweater, working on a blanket, or simply building your skills, understanding the M1 (Make One) increase is a must-have in your toolkit. It’s one of the most invisible increases in knitting — clean, subtle, and once you get the hang of it, really satisfying to work. So Let’s get started and Knit an M1!
In this post, I’ll show you two ways to Knit an M1 Increase — the M1L (Make One Left) and the M1R (Make One Right) — with tips, photos, and a full video tutorial to help you feel confident every step of the way.
I’ve put together a full walkthrough of both M1L and M1R in my video below. You’ll see how to make each stitch, what it looks like in your fabric, and how to decide which one to use.
How to Knit M1 Increases (M1L & M1R) for Beginners | Invisible Make One Left & Right Explained
🧵 Grab your needles and follow along with me!
What Is an M1 Increase in Knitting?
“M1” stands for Make One, and it’s a method for creating a new stitch between two existing stitches. Unlike yarn overs (which leave a hole), M1 increases are designed to be practically invisible. They’re especially common in garment shaping, sock patterns, and projects where you want the fabric to stay smooth.
There are two types of M1 increases:
M1L (Make One Left): The new stitch leans to the left
M1R (Make One Right): The new stitch leans to the right
Let’s walk through each one.
How to Knit an M1R (Make One Right)
Look for the bar of yarn between two stitches.
With your left needle, pick up the bar from back to front.
Knit through the front loop of that bar (this is the “short leg”).
👉 This creates a right-leaning stitch. I recommend working the increase at least one or two stitches in from the edge of your row for a cleaner look.
✅ Tip: Sometimes the bar can feel tight. Gently tug the yarn with your fingers to loosen it before inserting your needle.
How to Knit an M1L (Make One Left)
Again, find the bar of yarn between two stitches.
With your left needle, pick up the bar from front to back.
Knit through the back loop of that lifted bar.
👉 This creates a left-leaning increase, which pairs nicely with M1R for symmetrical shaping (like in sleeves or triangular shawls).
✅ Tip: You may need to “scooch” the stitch with your finger to get the right angle for your needle.
Which One Should You Use?
If a pattern specifies M1L or M1R, it’s trying to control the direction the stitch leans. But here’s the secret: many knitters default to just one (usually M1L) — and that’s okay too!
In fact, I tend to use M1L most often because it’s easier for my hands. Unless I’m working on a project where the lean direction really matters, I stick with the one that feels smooth and natural.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Twisting the bar the wrong way (can create an unintentional hole)
Knitting into the wrong leg of the stitch
Placing the increase too close to the edge (can distort your edge)
🧶 Don’t worry — it takes a little muscle memory, but once it clicks, you’ll do it without thinking.
Final Thoughts
Learning M1L and M1R gives you a clean, reliable way to shape your knitting without interrupting the flow of your stitches. Once you know the difference, you’ll start to notice these increases used in all kinds of patterns — and you’ll be ready for them.
You don’t need to be perfect, just consistent. Try both, see which feels best to you, and trust your hands as you go.
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