Is purl or knit stitch better?

When it comes to knitting, there are two fundamental stitches that every beginner must learn: the knit stitch and the purl stitch. These stitches are the foundation of all knitting patterns and projects. However, many knitters wonder which stitch is better, purl or knit. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two stitches and help you decide which one is best for your project.

What is the knit stitch?

The knit stitch is the most basic stitch in knitting. It involves inserting the needle through the loop on the previous stitch, then wrapping the yarn around the needle and pulling it through the loop. The result is a smooth, “v” shaped stitch on the right side of the work and a bumpy, purl stitch on the wrong side.

What is the purl stitch?

The purl stitch is the second most basic stitch in knitting. It involves inserting the needle from back to front through the loop on the previous stitch, then wrapping the yarn around the needle and pulling it through the loop. The result is a bumpy, purling stitch on the right side of the work and a smooth, “v” shaped stitch on the wrong side.

Differences between purl and knit stitch

Texture

The most noticeable difference between purl and knit stitches is their texture. The knit stitch produces a smooth, flat texture, while the purl stitch produces a bumpy, raised texture. This difference in texture is what gives knitting its unique look and feel.

Reversibility

Another significant difference between purl and knit stitches is their reversibility. The knit stitch produces a right-side and wrong-side fabric, while the purl stitch produces a reversible fabric. This means that the same texture is visible on both sides of the fabric, which can be useful in certain projects, such as scarves or blankets.

Ease of knitting

Some knitters find the purl stitch to be more difficult than the knit stitch. This is because the purl stitch requires the needle to be inserted from back to front, which can feel awkward at first. The knit stitch, on the other hand, is a more natural motion for most people, as it is similar to the motion used when sewing.

Which stitch is better?

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding which stitch is better, purl or knit. The stitch you choose will depend on your project and personal preference.

If you want a smooth, flat texture, the knit stitch is the way to go. It is also the easier stitch to learn, making it a great choice for beginners. However, if you want a bumpy, raised texture or a reversible fabric, the purl stitch is the better option.

Some projects may require both stitches, such as ribbing or seed stitch. In these cases, it’s important to know how to work both stitches and create the desired effect.

Conclusion

In summary, both the purl and knit stitches are essential in knitting and have their unique properties. The decision to use one over the other depends on the desired outcome of the project. The knit stitch produces a smooth, flat texture, while the purl stitch produces a bumpy, raised texture that is reversible. Ultimately, the choice between the two stitches comes down to personal preference and the requirements of the project.