"KNITTER'S HORROR SHOW"
Yes, folks this is exactly what it looks to be....this picture is from one of our classes learning to perform "Steeks", or a Nordic way of turning a pullover into a cardigan. By using good wool's unique quality of being able to felt, one can stabilize stitches with a crochet ridge and/or zigzagged lines and cut open the knitted fabric. (bear with me, folks, this can be a very good thing)
This method allows larger projects to be knit virtually 100% in the round and with (almost) no purling...speed and ease being the goal. A gal in my knitting group years ago got to the steeking point on her project while on a plane and set about to do the cut, when the man seated near her had an apoplectic fit and she had to calm him, explaining that she did indeed have all her marbles and she full well intended to cut the piece and all would be well. I'm not sure he was convinced.
NOTE: This is best performed in the company of other knitters with at least as much experience or sheer guts as you may have. And DON'T try it on cotton.