Mastering the Purl Row: Techniques to Increase Your Knitting Skills

Knitting is an art form that requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the craft. One essential skill in knitting is mastering the purl row, which involves creating a pattern of stitches that face the opposite direction of the knit row. While purling may seem challenging at first, with some practice and the right techniques, you can increase your proficiency and enjoy a smoother knitting experience. In this article, we explore various methods to help you master the purl row and efficiently increase stitches as needed.

The Basics of Purling

The purl row is the fundamental building block of many knitting patterns. It involves inserting the needle from right to left through the front of the stitch on the right-hand needle, wrapping the yarn around the needle, and pulling through a new loop. Purling creates a bumpy, textured row, distinguishable from the smooth knit row.

Techniques for Mastering the Purl Row

1. Smooth Purling Technique

The smooth purling technique is crucial for beginners to master. Follow these steps:

Raise the right-hand needle to the front of the work. Pull the working yarn towards you, creating a small loop on the right-hand needle. Insert the left-hand needle into the back of the stitch from right to left. Wrap the working yarn around the left-hand needle in a clockwise direction. Pull the new loop through the old stitch, creating a purl stitch.

2. Knife Purling Technique

For a more advanced approach, the knife purling technique can be highly effective:

Insert the right-hand needle from right to left into the stitch, as in the smooth technique. Pull the working yarn to the front, creating a small loop on the right-hand needle. Insert the left-hand needle into the front of the stitch again, this time from left to right. Wrap the working yarn around the left-hand needle in a counterclockwise direction, creating a backward loop. Pull the new loop through the old stitch, tightening it by turning the loop in a way that resembles turning a knife.

3. Combination of Techniques

Mixing the smooth and knife techniques can help you find a style that feels most natural:

Start with the smooth technique and transition to the knife technique as needed. Make small adjustments in your movement to ensure a smooth transition between the two techniques.

Increasing Stitches on a Purl Row

Increasing stitches on a purl row can be frustrating, but with the right methods, it can be made easier. Here are some techniques to consider:

Techniques for Increasing on a Purl Row

1. Single Increase (Treble Yarnover)

The treble yarnover is a common method for increasing a stitch:

Insert the right-hand needle into the front of the first stitch on the right-hand needle, as you would normally purl. Bring the working yarn to the front, creating a small loop on the right-hand needle. With the right-hand needle, purl this new loop through the stitch you just created, making a total of three loops on the right-hand needle. Knit the next stitch as usual.

2. Double Increase (Yarnover over Purl)

This technique combines a yarnover and a purl stitch to create two new stitches:

Insert the right-hand needle into the front of the first stitch on the right-hand needle, as you would normally purl. Bring the working yarn to the front, creating a small loop on the right-hand needle. With the right-hand needle, purl this new loop through the stitch you just created, making a new loop on the right-hand needle. Bring the working yarn to the front again and purl this new loop through the stitch, creating a total of two new stitches.

3. Kitchener Stitch for Edge Increases

The Kitchener stitch is a clever way to increase stitches without leaving unused yarn:

Purl the two stitches at the edge of the row, but do not drop them from the needle. Turn the work and knit the next stitch, purl the following stitch as usual. Continue in this manner, alternating knitting and purling across the row. Follow the remaining instructions to complete the Kitchener stitch.

Conclusion

Mastery of the purl row and adding stitches on a purl row can elevate your knitting skills to a new level. By experimenting with different techniques, you can find what works best for you. Remember, regular practice is key to developing the perfect purl row and mastering your knitting techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the differences between smooth purling and knife purling?

A: The main difference between the smooth purling and knife purling techniques lies in the direction of the yarn wrap. In smooth purling, the working yarn is wrapped counterclockwise, while in knife purling, it is wrapped clockwise.

Q: Can I use the same increasing techniques for purl rows as I do for knit rows?

A: While some increasing techniques are similar for both knit and purl rows, others may require adjustments. It's best to practice and understand the specific requirements for each increasing method on purl rows.

Q: How can I make purling easier?

A: To make purling easier, focus on relaxation and consistency in your technique. Regular practice and using the right needles (e.g., sized 1 or 2) can also help. Don't hesitate to experiment with different yarns to find a texture that feels comfortable for you.