Increasing a stitch at the end of a purl row is a common technique to expand your fabric, and it can be achieved using several methods, most commonly the Purl Front and Back (PFB) or Make One Purl (M1P) increases. The Purl Front and Back (PFB) method is particularly effective for creating two stitches from one, often leaving a distinct "bar" or "bump" that signals the increase.
Understanding Purl Increases
When working on the purl side of your knitting, increases are typically performed to maintain the purl stitch pattern. Unlike knit increases which might create holes (like yarn overs) or lean visibly (like KRL/KLL), purl increases like PFB or M1P often produce a more subtle or textured addition to the fabric.
Purl Front and Back (PFB) Explained
The Purl Front and Back (PFB) is a straightforward method to increase a stitch directly into an existing stitch. This technique creates a new stitch by working into the same stitch twice—first into its front loop, then into its back loop. This action effectively makes two stitches out of one, resulting in a small bar or "bump" at the base of the newly formed stitch on the purl side. This "bar" gives the increase its characteristic look.
Step-by-Step Guide to Purl Front and Back (PFB)
To perform a PFB increase on the last stitch of your purl row, follow these steps:
- Purl into the Front Loop: Insert your right needle into the front loop of the last stitch on your left needle as if to purl.
- Wrap and Purl (First Time): Wrap the yarn around your right needle and pull it through, forming a new loop on your right needle. Do not drop the original stitch off the left needle yet.
- Purl into the Back Loop: While the original stitch is still on your left needle, insert your right needle from the back into the back loop of the same stitch. This can feel a bit awkward initially, so you might need to adjust your grip.
- Wrap and Purl (Second Time): Wrap the yarn around your right needle again and pull it through the back loop. Now you have two loops on your right needle from the single original stitch.
- Drop the Stitch: Gently slide the original stitch off your left needle. You have now successfully created two stitches from one.
This technique is easy to remember as you "purl again" into the same stitch before you "drop it off," leaving that characteristic "little bar."
Alternative: Make One Purl (M1P)
Another common increase that results in a "bar" and can be done near the end of a purl row is the Make One Purl (M1P). This method involves picking up the strand of yarn (the "bar") between two stitches and purling into it.
How to Execute a Make One Purl (M1P)
- Identify the Bar: Locate the horizontal strand of yarn lying between the last stitch you purled and the next stitch on your left needle (or the edge of your fabric if it's the very end).
- Pick Up the Bar: Using your left needle, pick up this bar from the back, lifting it onto your left needle. This will twist the bar, creating a tighter increase.
- Purl into the Back Loop: Insert your right needle into the front loop of this newly picked-up strand (now on your left needle) and purl it.
While M1P can be used near the end of a row, PFB is usually preferred if you are increasing on the last stitch itself.
Choosing the Right Increase for Your Project
The choice between PFB and M1P often depends on the desired appearance and placement of the increase.
Comparison Table: PFB vs. M1P (Purl Side)
Feature | Purl Front and Back (PFB) | Make One Purl (M1P) |
---|---|---|
Method | Works into one existing stitch, creating two stitches from it. | Picks up the "bar" (strand) between two stitches to create a new stitch. |
Appearance | Creates a visible "bump" or "bar" on the purl side; often less noticeable on the knit side. | Creates a small, often neater, twisted bar on the purl side; can lean subtly. |
Location | Directly on any specific stitch in the row, including the last stitch. | Between two stitches; useful for increases within the row or at edges. |
Ease | Relatively easy for beginners, once comfortable with purling into the back loop. | Requires identifying and picking up the bar correctly. |
Result | Increases the stitch count by one for each PFB performed. | Increases the stitch count by one for each M1P performed. |
Common Use | Often used for shaping garments, increasing stitch count subtly. | Good for subtle shaping, especially when maintaining stitch integrity is key. |
Both methods are excellent for increasing stitches on a purl row. PFB is particularly suitable when you want to increase directly into the final stitch, whereas M1P is great for adding a stitch between the last working stitch and the edge of your fabric.