The Purl Stitch: What Nobody Tells Beginners!

Think you know how to purl? Think again. Most beginners are taught one “official” way — but here’s the secret nobody tells you: there are *at least* six common methods, and the one you learned might not be the best fit for your hands, your speed, or your tension.

We’ll also tackle the big issue beginners run into — **rowing out** — and why your knit and purl rows don’t always match. Spoiler: it’s not your fault.

Along the way, I’ll be referencing Sally Melville’s classic *The Knitting Experience Book 2: The Purl Stitch* — part how-to guide, part pattern collection — which remains one of my most recommended books for knitters at every level.

👉 Don’t miss my companion video: [The Knit Stitch: An HONEST Beginner’s Guide That Won’t Bore You to Tears]

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What I'm wearing: Poet's Dream by Thea Colman
https://www.ravelry.com/projects/KnicoleKnits/poets-dream

Sally Melville's books:
https://www.amazon.ca/Books-Sally-Melville/s?rh=n%3A916520%2Cp_27%3ASally%2BMelville

Video: Fix Untidy Tension with Combination Knitting
https://youtu.be/TjLhxWwE5XQ?si=vycF-o5S0skZU6we



00:00 Introduction
02:57 The Right Hand Carry
09:03 The Left Hand Carry Methods
19:50 Combined Continental
24:33 Portuguese - My new favourite?
36:52 Rowing out