Knitting vs. Purling — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 15, 2024
Knitting involves creating stitches by pulling loops through loops from the back, while purling does the same from the front.
Difference Between Knitting and Purling
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Knitting is a fundamental technique in hand knitting where the stitch is formed by pulling a new loop of yarn through an existing loop from the back. Purling, on the other hand, involves a similar process but from the front of the fabric.
In knitting, the stitches appear as smooth 'V's on the fabric surface, making it ideal for patterns like stockinette. Whereas in purling, the stitches create a bumpy texture, often referred to as reverse stockinette.
Knitting is often used for large areas of fabric because it is typically faster and less yarn-consuming. While purling is frequently used to add texture or ribbing to projects, impacting the fabric's elasticity.
Stitch orientation in knitting keeps the yarn at the back of the work, which can be more comfortable for many knitters. On the other hand, purling requires the yarn to be in front, which can be slightly more complex in terms of hand movements.
Knitting tends to be the default method for beginners due to its simplicity and ease of learning. Purling, however, may require a bit more practice to master as it involves a different yarn position and finger movement.
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Comparison Chart
Yarn Position
Behind the needle
In front of the needle
Stitch Appearance
'V' shaped smooth stitches
Bumpy and textured stitches
Common Usage
Basic patterns, smooth fabric
Textured patterns, ribbing
Speed and Ease
Generally faster and easier
Slightly slower and requires more skill
Stitch Orientation
Loop is pulled through the back
Loop is pulled through the front
Compare with Definitions
Knitting
Often used to create flat or tubular fabric pieces.
Knitting socks requires circular or double-pointed needles.
Purling
Considered slightly more complex than knitting.
She found purling more challenging than plain knitting.
Knitting
Creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn with needles.
She spent the evening knitting a colorful scarf.
Purling
A knitting technique where the stitch is made by pulling yarn through the front.
Purling each row creates a garter stitch pattern.
Knitting
Popular in creating garments and accessories.
He took up knitting to make his own hats.
Purling
Necessary for varied texture in knitting patterns.
Alternating knitting and purling can create intricate designs.
Knitting
A method to produce smooth, 'V' shaped stitches.
Knitting gives the sweater a sleek finish.
Purling
To flow or ripple with a murmuring sound.
Knitting
Can be done using machines or by hand.
Machine knitting is much faster than hand knitting.
Purling
To knit (yarn) with a purl stitch.
Knitting
Knitting is a method by which yarn is manipulated to create a textile or fabric. It is used in many types of garments.
Purling
To edge or finish (a handkerchief, for example) with lace or embroidery.
Knitting
The act or process of producing something knitted.
Purling
To do knitting with a purl stitch.
Knitting
Material that has been knitted or is being knitted.
Purling
To edge or finish with lace or embroidery.
Knitting
Present participle of knit
Purling
The sound made by rippling water.
Knitting
The action of the verb to knit; the process of producing knitted material.
I find knitting very relaxing.
Purling
Abbr. p. Inversion of a knit stitch; purl stitch.
Knitting
Material that has been, or is being knitted.
She put down her knitting and went to answer the phone.
Purling
A decorative edging of lace or embroidery.
Knitting
Overhead electrification wires, OHLE
Purling
Gold or silver wire used in embroidery.
Knitting
The work of a knitter; the network formed by knitting; knitwork.
Purling
Present participle of purl
Knitting
Union formed by knitting, as of bones.
Purling
That purls; rippling, eddying.
Knitting
Needlework created by interlacing yarn in a series of connected loops using straight eyeless needles or by machine
Purling
The motion of a small stream among obstructions; flowing with a murmuring sound.
The purlings of the stream
Knitting
Creating knitted wear
Purling
The motion of a small stream running among obstructions; also, the murmur it makes in so doing.
Purling
Produces a bumpy texture on the fabric's surface.
Purling is essential for ribbed patterns.
Purling
Commonly used to enhance fabric elasticity.
Purling is frequently used in the cuffs of socks.
Common Curiosities
Which is faster, knitting or purling?
Knitting is generally faster than purling.
Can you only use knitting or purling in a project?
Most projects use a combination of both to achieve various textures and elasticity.
What are the typical uses of purl stitches in knitting projects?
Purl stitches are often used for ribbing, borders, and textured patterns.
What is the main visual difference between knitting and purling?
Knitting results in smooth 'V' shaped stitches, while purling gives a bumpy texture.
What basic tools are required for both knitting and purling?
Both techniques primarily require knitting needles and yarn, though the needle size and yarn type can vary depending on the project specifics.
Why do knitters often alternate between knitting and purling in patterns?
Alternating stitches can create a variety of textures and patterns, such as ribbing or seed stitch, which enhance the fabric's visual and functional qualities.
Is purling more difficult than knitting?
Yes, purling can be seen as more complex due to the different hand movements required.
How does the choice between knitting and purling affect the final product's stretchiness?
Purling, especially in ribbing patterns, can significantly increase the elasticity of the fabric, making it more suitable for items like beanies and sweater cuffs.
How do beginners find learning to purl compared to knitting?
Beginners might find purling slightly more challenging due to the need to manage yarn in front of the work, which can be awkward at first.
What is stockinette stitch and how is it related to knitting and purling?
Stockinette stitch is made by alternating rows of knitting and purling, resulting in one smooth side and one textured side, showcasing the distinctive aspects of each technique.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
