Knit & Purl: Understanding the Basics – and Combining Them Right

Knit one, purl one – sounds simple, right? And it is… but it's also the foundation of nearly every knitting pattern. 

Knit and purl stitches are the two building blocks behind everything from smooth sweaters to textured scarves and ribbed cuffs.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• the difference between knit and purl stitches

• how to recognize them

• how to combine them effectively for texture, stretch, and style

🧵 Knit Stitch – Your Smooth, Simple Base

The knit stitch is the most basic stitch in knitting. When worked in rows, knitting every row creates the familiar smooth face of stockinette stitch.

• Texture: Smooth, flexible

• Look: V-shapes on the front side

• Great for: Flat surfaces, garment bodies, pattern foundations

🪡 Purl Stitch – The Reverse of Knit

The purl stitch is essentially the back side of a knit stitch. When worked alone or in combination, it adds contrast and structure.

• Texture: More compact, with small "bumps"

• Look: Horizontal waves or "ridges"

• Used in: Ribbing, garter stitch, textured patterns

🔁 Combine Them for Magic

Stitch Setup: RS: knit / WS: purl 

Look & Feel: Smooth front, curled edges

Stitch Setup: Knit every row 

Look & Feel: Bumpy texture, firm & stretchy

Stitch Setup: Alternating knit & purl (1x1, 2x2) 

Look & Feel: Elastic, ideal for cuffs & bands

Stitch Setup: Alternating knit & purl, shifted 

Look & Feel: Densely textured, modern look

Stitch Setup: Deep knit with yarnovers 

Look & Feel: Puffy, soft, very stretchy 

✨ Which Pattern for What?

• Ribbing: Great for edges, cuffs, and necklines – stretches and springs back
• Stockinette: Smooth, ideal for patterns or intarsia
• Seed/Double Seed Stitch: Adds interest and structure to flat projects
• Garter Stitch: Simple, rustic, and ideal for beginners

👀 How to Recognize Your Stitches

• Knit stitch: V-shaped columns

• Purl stitch: Little bumps or ridges

✅ Pro tip: Knit on the right side = purl on the wrong side (and vice versa)

Mastering this visual difference helps you read your knitting – and fix mistakes faster.

💡 Final Thoughts: Learn the Language of Stitches

Knit and purl are the alphabet of knitting – once you understand them, you'll be able to read, combine, and even design your own stitch patterns.

What's your go-to basic pattern – ribbing, stockinette, or seed stitch? 

Share your favorite with #strickenimtrend or in the Facebook group!

#strickenimtrend #knitandpurl #knittingbasics #learnknitting #ribbingpattern #seedstitch #knittips

Let us knit!

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶