Continental purling, also known as German purling, is a knitting technique that produces a different type of stitch compared to traditional purling. It creates a tighter, more compact fabric with a distinct texture that is often used in ribbed patterns, cables, and other decorative stitches. Mastering continental purling can significantly enhance your knitting skills and open up a wider range of knitting possibilities.
Unlike traditional purling, which involves wrapping the yarn around the right-hand needle in a clockwise direction, continental purling involves wrapping the yarn around the left-hand needle in a counterclockwise direction. This seemingly minor difference results in a significant change in the way the stitches are formed, creating a more uniform and consistent fabric. Continental purling is also faster and more efficient than traditional purling, making it a valuable technique for time-sensitive projects or large-scale knitting.
Transitioning to continental purling may initially require some practice and adjustment, but it is a technique that is well worth learning. Its benefits—including the production of a tighter, more durable fabric, increased knitting speed, and enhanced stitch consistency—make it an invaluable addition to any knitter’s skillset. With patience and dedication, you can master continental purling and elevate your knitting projects to the next level.
Holding the Yarn and Needle
The continental purl is a knitting technique that produces a fabric with a smooth, even texture. It is worked using the left-hand needle to wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle.
To hold the yarn and needle for continental purling, follow these steps:
- Yarn: Hold the yarn in your left hand, with the working yarn coming from the back of your hand. Use the thumb and forefinger of your left hand to control the tension of the yarn.
- Needle: Hold the right-hand needle with your right hand, with the tip of the needle pointed slightly towards you. Grip the needle between your thumb and forefinger, with the remaining fingers curled around the shaft of the needle.
- Positioning: Hold the yarn and needle in a relaxed position, with the yarn coming from the left and the needle pointing towards you.
Yarn Tension
Maintaining the correct yarn tension is crucial for producing even and consistent stitches. Here are some tips:
| Yarn Tension | Effect on Stitches |
|---|---|
| Too tight | Stitches will be tight and pull in |
| Too loose | Stitches will be loose and uneven |
| Correct tension | Stitches will be even and slightly elastic |
Experiment with different tension levels to find what works best for your yarn and needle combination. The correct tension will allow the yarn to slide smoothly over the needles without creating any snags or kinks.
Variations of the Continental Purl
Basic Continental Purl
This is the most common variation of the continental purl. It is worked with the yarn held in the left hand and the needle in the right hand. The yarn is wrapped around the needle from back to front, and the needle is then inserted into the next stitch on the left-hand needle. The yarn is then hooked onto the right-hand needle and pulled through the stitch.
Reverse Continental Purl
This variation of the continental purl is worked with the yarn held in the right hand and the needle in the left hand. The yarn is wrapped around the needle from front to back, and the needle is then inserted into the next stitch on the right-hand needle. The yarn is then hooked onto the left-hand needle and pulled through the stitch.
Combination Continental Purl
This variation of the continental purl combines the basic continental purl with the reverse continental purl. The yarn is held in the left hand and the needle in the right hand. The yarn is wrapped around the needle from back to front, and the needle is then inserted into the next stitch on the left-hand needle. The yarn is then hooked onto the right-hand needle and pulled through the stitch to the halfway point. The needle is then turned around, and the yarn is wrapped around the needle from front to back. The needle is then inserted into the same stitch and the yarn is pulled through to complete the stitch.
| Variation | Yarn Held | Needle Held | Yarn Wrap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Continental Purl | Left hand | Right hand | Back to front |
| Reverse Continental Purl | Right hand | Left hand | Front to back |
| Combination Continental Purl | Left hand | Right hand | Back to front, then front to back |
Using the Continental Purl in Projects
The continental purl can be used in a variety of projects, including:
- Stockinette stitch: The continental purl can be used to create stockinette stitch, which is a fabric that is smooth and stretchy on the right side and has vertical ridges on the wrong side.
- Ribbing: The continental purl can be used to create ribbing, which is a fabric that has alternating rows of knit and purl stitches.
- Cables: The continental purl can be used to create cables, which are raised patterns that are created by crossing stitches over each other.
- Lace: The continental purl can be used to create lace, which is a fabric that has openwork patterns.
| Project | Uses Continental Purl |
|---|---|
| Stockinette stitch | Yes |
| Ribbing | Yes |
| Cables | Yes |
| Lace | Yes |
Finishing the Edge with a KnitPurl Border
To finish the edge of a project with a knit-purl border, you will need to:
1. Knit one row.
2. Purl one row.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until the border is the desired width.
4. Bind off all stitches.
How to Purl Continental
The Continental Purl Stitch
The Continental Purl stitch, also known as the “throwing” method, is an alternative technique to the traditional English Purl. It involves throwing the yarn over the working needle rather than wrapping it around. This technique is preferred by many knitters due to its speed and fluidity.
Holding the Yarn
Hold the yarn in your left hand, with the working end coming from the back of the needle. Your thumb should be placed behind the yarn, and your index finger in front.
Inserting the Needle
Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch on the left-hand needle, as if to knit.
Throwing the Yarn
With your left thumb, throw the yarn over the right-hand needle, from back to front.
Catching the Yarn
Catch the yarn with the right-hand needle and pull it through the loop on the left-hand needle.
Slipping the Stitch
Slip the new stitch onto the right-hand needle.
Completing the Purl
Lift the new stitch over the old stitch on the right-hand needle to complete the Purl stitch.
Tension Control
Maintain consistent tension throughout the entire process to create even stitches.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice regularly to develop muscle memory.
- Use a yarn that is not too dark or thick, as it can make it difficult to see your stitches.
Conclusion: Mastering the Continental Purl
Mastering the Continental Purl takes time and practice. However, once you become proficient, you will enjoy the increased speed and fluidity of this technique. Remember to experiment with different yarn weights and needle sizes to find what works best for you.
How to Purl Continental
Purl Continental is a knitting technique that creates a series of loops on the left-hand needle. It is similar to the English method of purling, but the yarn is held in the left hand instead of the right. This technique is often used by knitters who find it more comfortable or who knit faster with this method.
To purl Continental, hold the needle in your left hand with the point facing away from you. Wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front, crossing the yarn over the needle. Insert the needle into the next stitch on the right-hand needle, from front to back. Wrap the yarn around the needle again, from front to back. Pull the yarn through the stitch, creating a new loop on the left-hand needle.
Repeat these steps for each stitch across the row. When you reach the end of the row, turn the needles around so that the left-hand needle is now the right-hand needle. Continue purling until you reach the desired length.
People Also Ask About How to Purl Continental
What is the difference between purl Continental and English?
The main difference between purl Continental and English is the way the yarn is held. In purl Continental, the yarn is held in the left hand, while in purl English, the yarn is held in the right hand.
Which method is better, Continental or English?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It depends on what is more comfortable for the individual knitter.
Can I switch between Continental and English?
Yes, it is possible to switch between Continental and English, but it may take some practice to get used to the different hand positions.
