Some knitters slip the first stitch of every row. Others purl the first stitch of a knit row, or knit the first stitch of a plain row. Quite often it’s just a habit, or they may have been advised to do this by another knitter, or they think it will firm up the edges and stop them curling. Only do something like this if you are following a pattern and slipping of stitches is included in the instructions. None of these methods will prevent edges from curling, so don’t bother. All these attempts make perfect seaming more difficult to achieve, as the edge stitches are distorted.

You will get a good result from making sure to work the first and last stitches of every row as firmly as possible. There is no need to try to stop edges curling if the edge will be a seam, so don’t waste your time worrying about it.

Nothing can prevent curling edges on stocking stitch.

Not even a crochet row worked later along the edge.

Using any size hook.

Ironing.

Stitched on ribbon backing.

I know, because I’ve tried every trick in the trade! The side edges of stocking stitch will always curl. The only thing that can stop it is the addition of a rib or garter stitch band.

Garter stitch doesn’t curl at the edges. Rib stitch edges sit fairly well if you make sure to firm up the first and last stitches of every row. Many pattern stitches can sit flat at the edges.
 
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