Confusion with a pattern!

[princess]

So I needed a good getting started for Winter pattern, and I figured this would teach me increases and decreases, so I chose the Paton's Classic Wool Sock Monkey pattern. (It's free at Vogue Knitting if you sign up, or on a card in Michael's craft stores.)

My problem is that I was starting it last night, and I realized I was a little confused by the instructions.

It starts:
**With pair of double-pointed needles and A, cast on 6 sts.

1st rnd: Inc 1 st in each st to end of row. Divide sts onto 3 needles. Join in rnd. Place marker on first st.

What I'm trying to figure out is why you basically knit one row because joining the round. Can anyone help me?

Thanks!

Comments

[ames]

I think the intent is for the knitted row to add more stability when joining in the round, especially when you're casting on such a small number of stitches. two stitches on three needles is kind of a mess to deal with, but four stitches in three needles isn't so bad.

[princess]

Okay, that makes sense. I'll have to start it tonight and see how the first leg comes out.