New to knitting? Do you want to learn how to knit a purl stitch? Well, of course, you do. Every beginner should learn how to knit a purl stitch because this is one of the two dominant stitch techniques in knitting. So, if you want to learn how, check out the steps here.
TL;DR: Knitting Purl Stitch
- The purl stitch is one of the two foundational knitting stitches; it’s essentially the reverse of the knit stitch and creates a “bump” texture on the fabric surface.
- To make a purl stitch: yarn is held in front of the work, the right needle is inserted into the front of the stitch from right to left (toward you), the yarn wraps counter-clockwise around the tip, and the loop is drawn through.
- Recognizing knits vs purls in your work matters for reading patterns: knit stitches show “V” shapes, purl stitches show “bumps.”
- Alternating knit and purl stitches creates different textures and fabrics (e.g., ribbing, seed stitch, stockinette).
- Practicing the purl stitch helps you become a more confident knitter—especially when following patterns that require both knit and purl combinations.
Knitting Tutorial For Beginners | How To Knit The Purl Stitch

This Tutorial will help you Learn How to knit the Purl Stitch
Knitting is a relaxing hobby. It reduces stress and offers a break from our busy schedule. If it turns out that you’re new to this kind of hobby, it is important to learn the basics. Knit stitch and purl stitch are the stitch techniques when knitting any garment. They most likely have the same steps, except that they have a slightly different movement. So, to learn how to knit the purl stitch, let’s see this very helpful tutorial I found from PurllinKnitting’s channel.
You’ll only need:
- A pair of knitting needles
- A ball of yarn (any color of your choice)
Instructions:
Step 1. Position your needles
First, you’re going to cast on 10 stitches and knit 1 row. Position the ball end of the yarn on your left-handed needle, the empty needle in your right hand.
Step 2. Insert
Next, go in with your right-handed needle from above into the loop of your left-handed needle with the stitches (in knit stitch, you will go in from below).
Step 3. Wrap
Take the ball end of the yarn and wrap it around the right-handed needle (make sure it doesn’t slip out).
Step 4. Bring through the loop
Bring it through the loop.
Step 5. Slide
Slide your work off the left-handed needle.
Step 6. Repeat
Repeat the same steps from the stitches you cast on. You can tight in as you go, just so the stitches are more even, just pull on the ball end of the yarn to tighten a little bit. And there you go, good job! It’s very easy, just keep on practicing.
You can watch the video tutorial below for fuller details:
Learning the purl stitch is not that hard at all. In fact, it will be your guide in making more creative crafts in knitting. Just spend a little time practicing, and you’ll surely be as good as professional knitters. Have fun knitting!



