Many patterns call for the use of a kfb (knit front and back). This abbreviation is used for a knitting increase made by knitting into the front and back of a stitch. It is an easy and quick increase that turns one stitch into two. The resulting new stitch leaves a bump similar to a purl bump. Try your hand at this elementary increase demonstrated in my newest video.
Author: Knit Purl
Purl
Once you have mastered the knit stitch, it is time to learn the purl stitch. The knit and purl stitches are the foundation of all knitting and it is the million manipulations of these two stitches that create the wonderful designs that dazzle us!
Knit
If you or a friend are interested in learning to knit, try this basic knitting lesson to get started. A whole world of creativity awaits you!
Cables
Cables are the best bang for your buck in knitting! Cable designs look difficult, but are so simple to execute. Start with these easy cables and work your way up to more complicated versions. All levels of cables follow the same principles and you will be very impressed by the professional look achieved with such minimal effort. We don’t have to let all those non-knitters in on our little secret!
K2tog
Every knitter will need to decrease stitches at some point. The simplest decrease is made by knitting two stitches together to create one new stitch. A knit two together (k2tog) results in a stitch that is right leaning.
Left Twist
The left twist is a bit trickier to execute than its counterpart the right twist, but these two stitches open the door to many design possibilities. There are several ways to create that finicky left twist, but I demonstrate the simplest in this video. Give it a whirl and enjoy all the new stitch opportunities!
Catawampous
This top down sock was a delight to knit due to the yummy softness of Shibui’s newest yarn, Staccato. The cuff began with the optional rib cast on using the Long Tail/Purl Cast On (see Purl Cast On Video) and was followed by the simple dancing squares. Pattern debuted as Mystery Sock #24 in May 2010.
Purl Cast On
The Purl Cast On is a variation of the Long Tail Cast On that creates, you guessed it – a purl stitch! Many knitters use this cast on as a way to keep an edge from curling. Alternate this cast on with the standard Long TaiI and you can actually establish your rib pattern in the cast on row. I think this is especially good looking when knitting with a bulky yarn. I love the way this cast on challenges my brain!