Mastering the Art of Purling on the Wrong Side- A Comprehensive Guide

How to Purl on the Wrong Side

Embarking on the journey of knitting can be both exciting and challenging. One of the fundamental techniques that every knitter must master is purling. Purling on the wrong side, also known as purling through the back loop, is a crucial skill that allows you to create the textured surface of your knitted fabric. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to purl on the wrong side, ensuring that your knitting projects turn out beautifully and consistently.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the technique, it’s essential to understand the basic principles of purling. Purling is the process of creating a purl stitch, which is the counterpart to the knit stitch. While the knit stitch creates a raised, smooth surface, the purl stitch creates a textured, ridged surface. Purling on the wrong side involves working with the back of the fabric, which is the side that is not visible when the garment is worn.

Preparation

To begin, gather your knitting tools, including your yarn, knitting needles, and a pair of scissors. Choose a yarn that is suitable for your project and ensure that your knitting needles are the correct size for the yarn. It’s also a good idea to have a tape measure on hand to check your gauge and ensure that your project will fit the intended size.

The Purl Stitch Technique

Now that you have your materials ready, let’s learn how to purl on the wrong side. Follow these steps:

1. Begin by facing the wrong side of your knitted fabric. The wrong side is typically characterized by a textured surface with ridges.
2. Insert your knitting needle into the first stitch on the left-hand side of the work.
3. Wrap the yarn around the tip of your needle in a clockwise direction, creating a loop.
4. Pull the loop through the stitch on your needle, leaving the loop on the needle.
5. Slide the stitch off the needle, and you have completed a purl stitch.

Practice Makes Perfect

Like any new skill, purling on the wrong side may take some practice. It’s important to be patient with yourself and keep practicing until you feel comfortable with the technique. Remember that consistency is key, so take your time and ensure that each purl stitch is the same size and shape as the others.

Conclusion

Purling on the wrong side is a fundamental technique that will help you create beautiful and textured knitted fabrics. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can master the purl stitch and take your knitting skills to the next level. Happy knitting!