Purl Knit Basics: Characteristics, Applications, and Styling Tips

Knitting techniques that are applied with yarns and needles are what make clothing a unique piece of art. To understand the foundation of knitting it is important to get introduced with purl knit. This unique knitting style is what provides a lifted pattern on the purl knit. If you are new into knitting, purl knitting is where you should start your journey. This amazing fabric is well known among the designers and manufacturing industries. It also has its name for being soft and comfortable. The fabric has good insulating properties making it ideal for winter garments. It is great for a stylish and luxurious look for any day. In this article, I will be explaining all about purl knit. 

What is Purl Knit?

Purl knit is a unique knitting stitch that is made by creating loops on the back of the fabric which forms raised structures on the front. The stitch gets pulled into a loop by the yarn through another stitch. Purl knit is the versatile and basic knitting style that was ever introduced to us. Purl knitting involves a mixture of purl and knit stitches.

These two get alternating between each other which makes this fabric. The main difference between knit stitches and purl stitches is that by knit stitch we get an even surface on the back of the fabric while purl stitch makes loops and bumps on the front of the fabric. Purl knit is produced by a mixture of different materials. Wool and cotton are used as organic materials while synthetic materials like synthetic fibers and acrylic are used for adding more durability and stretchability to the fabric. The garments made with this fabric provide good comfort, texture, and durability. The raised patterns, loops, and bumps add to the aesthetics of the garments. This method of knitting has been known for a long time in Europe, Middle-east and East Asia. The advancement of machinery and the wide practice of this knitting style have proven to greatly spread around the world. Since then it has become a cultural practice among the nation. The unique qualities of this fabric have proven to enhance and create new designs and patterns. 

Applications of Purl Knit

Characteristics of Purl Knit

Texture

The knitting style adds unique textures to the fabric like:- raised patterns and loops which perfectly blend with the garments. It allows garment industries to include different types of designs and patterns in their apparel. These characteristics make the fabric appealing to our eyes as well as making it comfy and cozy to wear.

Softness

The fabric is highly soft and comfortable due to its mixture of wool and cotton. The fabric manufactured by the industries often goes through a softening process which can further enhance the softness of the fabric. 

Flexibility

The combination of organic and synthetic materials makes the fabric stretch freely. The fabric can hold itself under high tension and doesn't overstretch or lose its shape. 

Warmth

One of the unique features of purl knit is the warmth provided by the fabric. Wool and cotton are well known for having great insulating capabilities. The blend of these insulating materials with synthetic fibers traps the air and  the fabric is comfortable, lightweight, breathable, and warm which is ideal for cold weather. 

Properties of Purl Knit

Types of Purl Knit

Basic Purl stitch

It is one of the most versatile knitting styles that has been widely used by the garment industry. To make this type of knitting style we need to alternate from the right-hand to the left-hand needles and then wrap the yarn in a clockwise motion then back to the right-hand needles. This knitting pattern will create neat and clean loops around the fabric. 

Ribbing Purl stitch

This knitting pattern involves knit stitches and purl stitches. There is a reason why knit stitches and purl stitches are used together. Purl stitches can create bump like textures and enhance the elasticity of the fabric while knit fabric decreases the stress. It prevents overstretching and increases the longevity of the fabric. One of the common mistakes made while knitting is a high amount of tension.

Since we are alternating between two types of stitches, there remains a high risk of building tension while stitching. This can be done by maintaining a steady tension on the yarn. 

Seed Purl stitch

This pattern is similar to the ribbing purl stitch as it requires alternating rib and purl stitches which creates small bumps on the fabric. This method of stitching creates a smooth back and gives a textured front. 

Styling tips for Purl Knit

As we all know by now the fabric offers a range of numerous patterns and designs. Many industries have unique designs that have been well-recognized by their consumers. 

•  Rowan: A British brand that has its name for applying their unique patterns through knitting style. Known for their versatility and fashion designs. 
• Dale of Norway: they have made their position by implementing traditional knitting techniques through their fabrics and became one of the famous brands of Norway.
• Debbie Bliss: She is a famous designer from Great Britain. Her designs and works have shown remarking favor from users. She has mastery over purl stitches which can be seen throughout her designs. Her designs and patterns represent great proficiency in purl and knit stitches. 

• Brooklyn Tweed: A well-known brand from America known for its artistic designs. They solely rely on purl stitches and create astonishing designs. 
• Malabrigo: it is a brand from Uruguay that exhibits the knitters. They use the traditional method which includes hand dyeing the yarns. 

Conclusion

Purl knitting is the universal knitting style and works as the foundation of knitting styles. It allows the designers and manufacturing industries to utilize different patterns, designs, and textures. This knitting method makes the fabric soft, comfortable and durable. The garments knitted by using purl knit have good stretchability, flexibility and durability. Today, many new industries have realized the importance of this fundamental knitting style and have started to implement it in their garments.