Short Rows or Wrap & Turn (abbreviated W&T)

Short rows are, as they sound like, short rows of knitting. You create them by working over only some of the stitches in a row and then turning and working the other way. Short rows are used to create additional height in specific areas. For example, you can use them if you would like a long round hem on the back of a sweater or if you want to create bust darts. They can also be used to change the direction of your knitting, like in the heels or toes of socks. There are many creative ways that designers use short rows in knit patterns.

There are many different kinds of short rows. They vary in the way they look and how they are worked. Some of the types are Wrap and Turn, wrapless, German short rows, Japanese short rows and shadow wraps. Your knitting pattern should recommend which type to use so that you achieve the same effect as the original design. 

Here is a brief description of the Wrap & Turn method:

To wrap a stitch, work to the indicated turning point, take the yarn to the right side of the fabric (in front on a knit row, in back on a purl row), slip the next stitch purlwise, and take the yarn to the wrong side of the fabric. Turn the work. Slip the wrapped stitch purlwise back to the right-hand needle, then continue working in the opposite direction.

When all short rows are completed, it is time to hide the wraps by working the wrap and stitch together. On the knit side, insert the tip of the right-hand knitting needle into the wrap, then into the stitch, and knit them together. On the purl side, insert the tip of the right-hand knitting needle into the wrap from the right side, lift it onto the left-hand knitting needle, and then purl the stitch and wrap together.