Difficulty: beginner Skill: basic-stitches basic 4 min read

What it is

The purl stitch is worked with the yarn at the front of the work. Together with knit stitch, it builds stockinette, ribbing and many textured stitch patterns.

How Ruke patterns use it

Purl stitch appears whenever Ruke patterns switch to wrong-side rows, ribbing, textured stitch patterns or flat construction. It is especially important in cardigans and accessories where RS and WS rows are worked separately.

Examples

Green-Day Sweater uses purl stitches in twisted rib and in wrong-side rows.
Ruke Fluffy Cardigan is worked flat, so purling and RS/WS awareness matter throughout the fabric.

When to use it

Use it for wrong-side stockinette rows, ribbing, seed stitch and textured patterns that combine knit and purl columns.

What to check

Check that the working yarn is at the front and that the yarn is moved back before the next knit stitch.