This is how i taught myself to knit! I was so confused watching videos trying to figure out why no one else moved back and forth and instead flipped their work. Turned out i was just doing something weird. Gotta say its SOO much easier this way.
You're so cute! Just to ensure that you aren't saying we knit wrong. That's so sweet of you. As a lefty, sometimes I feel like a weirdo because most things are made for right handed folk. So thank you! :)
When I first started practicing this technique, yes. I had tension issues in that my mirror knit rows were tighter than my regular knit rows. But after a few more inches of practicing, my tension is even. Just takes practice. :)
This is indeed exciting! I an a left handed knitter so everything is backwards....I wish you would go slower so I can watch your hands better and learn how you move each stitch ie: knit to purl ...so quickly. Love to watch but move too fast for me to catch it all. Thanks for taking your time to demonstrate for us.
It's so interesting to me to see some people dint like pulling, I don't mind it at all! That's why I love reading comments, I get to learn so many other views!!!!
I'm not sure I fully understand your question, but I'm guessing you might be a "Combination" knitter. This technique, as I demonstrate it, is appropriate for knitters who wrap their stitches in the traditional way, and who do not knit "through the back loop" as their normal way of knitting. If you do something different in your normal way of knitting, the way that I demonstrate this technique would put an extra twist on your stitches, which would show in stockinette stitch.
I am ambidextrous so this technique is something I am getting very comfortable doing. This is something I have been interested in doing for a while now. Your more recent video of this way of knitting got me to try it finally and it is working out great. I am doing Frankie's ten stitch blanket and I never have to turn my work. It makes it go much faster. Especially with the w&ts.
Ha! I stopped to learn this technique (which I use with entrelac but never can remember how) to work on Frankie's Ten Stitch Blanket. You are so right, it makes the short rows so much easier.
I haven’t read all 314 comments, but as well as being grateful you are there for us, a use of backwards purling came to me when I started work on a large blanket (Meg Swansen’s Puzzle Pillow Blanket) in garter stitch. As it grows, turning the work will be cumbersome but backwards purling to the rescue!
You are adorable. I love how you acknowledge your awkwardness knitting Continental style. We all have our limitations and should not feel inadequate because of them. thanks for keeping it real. Regarding this technique. I'm trilled to have this video as a reference. I just read about backward knitting in the book Vogue kitting Knitopedia the Ultimate A to Z for Knitters. I wanted to see it demonstrated and hoped you had a video... and you did! Oh happy day. thanks again for the valuable tutorial. And, by the way, the ombre sweater is gorgeous!
Hi Staci, I'm a continental knitter and switching the yarn to my right hand to mirror knit my purl rows like you do is awesome and easy. It is much easier than keeping the yarn in the left hand and feels very familiar to my hands even though it's feeding from the right not left. Then I knit the next row continental style as usual. Feels good because both my hands are training to do what's most efficient! Love your work, thank you!
You are probably the most helpful knitting tutor ever! Very descriptive and I am always really happy to see your videos pop up when I search for help!!!
Oh my word! This is absolutely blowing my mind! Love love love the video, your commentary AND mirror knitting! I'm a leftie continental knitter with some Norwegian knitting adaptations and trying this is so much fun. Thanks for sharing! Oh! By the way, for leftie knitters, it's always going to be clockwise wrapping instead of counter-clockwise.
Thanks so much for info for lefties!..I also am and your hint of clockwise instead of counterclockwise made a big difference...my stitches are so much more even. Thanks again..glad I read comments!
I recently learned to entrelac and the only thing I did not like about it was turning the work every minute. So glad I found this technique. Think it will help to keep my kitty happy in my lap while I work too, as turning the work means she has to be disturbed! lol
Me too. I knitted a single bed sized throw in entrelac & after a certain amount it was just too heavy to keep turning my work and I ended up using this technique.
As an English born English knitter I have never feared purling. This has me intrigued even though I don't envisage ever using this technique though, it's always cool to learn. I do love how clear and concise your videos are, without rambling and also not taking yourself too seriously when you commented on how it's painful to watch you continental knit! LOVE your videos.❤🧶
And double thanks for saying "always wrap counter-clockwise". I figured that out, but since it was a conclusion I came to myself, hearing it from an expert really helps. No matter what the stitch, wrap clockwise! Thanks!
When my Nanna first taught me to knit many years ago, I accidentally taught myself mirror knitting, and I am very glad I did. Not only is it especially handy for entralac or other styles where you knit very short rows. Strangely I am quick at my mirror rows than my "normal" (In my "normal" knitting I am also a flicker, but when I mirror knit I turn into a continental knitter.) ones and find I can do large pieces of stocking stitch in no time at all without having to purl a single stitch. .
I guess this all what someone is used to. I am left handed and have always knitted this way since childhood, it's very fast for me and I don't let go of the wrapping yarn ever. So, I use a combination of Continental Knitting, and then Mirror Knitting for the return. It is very very easy for left handed people and those of us who are ambidextrous (I also write backwards) Love your videos and podcast.... You are the best, Staci.
I always thought that purling was easier than knitting, because all of the action takes place in front of the needles, so I can see what I'm doing! So I'm less likely to split, drop, or grab the wrong stitch. Kind of like in gymnastics, where back flips are easier to land than front flips because you can see the floor (or beam!) before you land on it!
I love this method thank you x I think it will be very useful when using more than one ball of yarn as without turning the work the strands wont get twisted so much
I’m pretty sure this is how my grandma taught me how to knit. I remember if I ever put down a project halfway through I always had difficultly remembering which way I was going. I stopped knitting at the age of about 11 years old and recently picked it up again now at 23. This cleared up my confusion as why I would ever be confused by the direction I was knitting! Thank you so much!
Yes, they are very shiny! All of the information about things you'll see in this video are listed out in the video description field, just below the video. These needles are Addi Turbos.
Thanks for teaching the mirror purl as well. I'm binding off EZ's Pi shawl using the sideways garter stitch BO. Not having to turn the work for the purl side for just 8 stitches makes this BO go faster especially since there is over 500 stitches to BO!
Miss Staci, knitting back backwards is such a blessing to know especially when I do Bavarian knitting. This way you are always working with the right side facing you. Great demo. :)
Thank you so much! I find continental so much easier since I have messed up my dominant hand. This has saved me so much time! Plus I don't drop stitches and I don't get confused what kind of stitch I'm on now. It also makes my yarn a lot more clean to deal with. I don't feel like it's hopeless for me to actually finish a project now!
You are awesome! Thank you so much. I went through books and videos for days until I found this. So clear, instructive and helpful. What a great teacher you are.
I've found this technique is really helpful in two places. 1) if I'm knitting fair isle/jacquard items flat. I can keep super even tension with both my yarns, and always holding both helps me keep colour dominance in check. 2) When making afghans and large blankets. It's been especially useful and time-saving while making the ten stitch blanket. Backward continental purling is becoming something of a forté now!
Thanks for the tutorial! SaintHaHaLOLZ I watched this video because I'm knitting a ten stitch blanket (the circular version) right now and I'm tired of turning it!
oh my stars that is amazing. Will have to try it. This would be great if you needed to knit a very long piece. It will be hard I learned to knit as a chid and am now 70 years old. Like to learn new things so will try. Thanks so much for showing us. Happy knitting.
I used the mirror purl stitch on your 10 stitch blanket... I was making a rather large one and it was a lot less flipping and flapping. Thank you for showing both!
Yes, you'd need to combine backwards knitting and backwards purling to work across that row. You sort of have to ask yourself which you prefer...if it's almost equal knitting and purling, it might just be easier to turn the work. Unless you're up for a kind of cool challenge. :)
I have done this for years and years and never knew it had a name at all. I don't wrap counter clock wise. I think the only thing a person has to pay attention to is which leg of the knit is in front or back. Its a matter of putting the needle where your legs won't get twisted. I always have the yarn in front to purl and yarn in back to knit. For lace knitting I find it invaluable not to turn the work. I can check for mistakes on the way back. Sometimes I can fix them without pulling everything out.
This video saved an entralac throw that has become quite bulky to continue to turn for purling so, I put it on the "Eventually Pile" which is really the "I am sick of this project" pile. :-) I am back on my project and enjoying it again. Thank you.
Love the idea of an "eventually pile" - or even better, the "I am sick of this project pile" lol!! Similar things in this house are known as UFOs - UnFinished Objects. I'm afraid I've got rather a lot of those... This is a great knitting technique, isn't it. Just discovered it today and don't think I shall look back now. I have never heard of entralac so must look this up!
Just gave this a go and I love it. I know you said you wouldn't use it for whole rows but that's what I'm going to do if I can get good at it. I'm a "flicker" but I have RSI issues with my right wrist and my purl flick twists my right wrist awkwardly so instead I let go of the right needle completely and use almost a whole arm movement to wrap the yarn which is slow and laborious. This mirror method allows me to purl without twisting my right wrist so could be really useful for me. Thank you!
This is how I have knitted since I started to learn to knit I am a true left handed knitter. My left hand needle is always the workimg needle. I am a self taught knitter now I learn it is a new technique. Now I can say I am a mirror knitter LOL Thanks for the video it was fun to watch how I knit and purl. If I mirror purled I would be knitting like a right handed person. Where ever I go people say wow you knit backwards.
Glad I found this. I am about to make a scarf in lace weight with lots of very thin vertical stripes . I was dreading the thought of the tangled mess that could easily become - but backwards (mirror) knitting might allow me to work across all those colours without tangling at all! Thanks so much for demonstrating this.
You are awesome! Thank you for responding. I did Google this method last night and found those videos you reference. I love this technique. My only challenge now is that the fabric blocks my view but I'll keep working with it. I learn from many of your videos. Thanks.
This is too funny! I came to knitting from crochet and when I first started, I would knit continental and wrap the "wrong" way, resulting in twisted stitches. Now I know I was just mirror knitting on the wrong side! Love it.
I love this way of knitting. I have always been a crocheter but I have been teaching myself to knit through RUclips . I find your videos very helpful. Thank you can't wait to try this. Maybe I will stay out of work to practice this lol. Thanks again
I found a purpose for the mirror purl stitch. When making the 10 stitch blanket don't wrap and turn. Wrap and mirror purl back so you don't drop stitches while turning your work. It really comes in handy when your blanket gets very large.
I have tried continental knitting the first row and mirror knitting the second. It felt confortable. Basically I am an English knitter. Thank you for your very interesting video.🌻🌼💐
As for uses for mirror purling: im doing a shawl that has garter stitch short rows (a lot of them). I sought this out to avoid flipping back and forth for only 4, 3, and then 2 stitches for every short row. Thanks for posting this!
I am not at all aversive against purling but I knit right to left when knitting short rows. Very good tuto (as usual 😘), especially because you always show and explain different ways of implementation.
I recently found a need for the mirrored purling. I'm working on the ten stitch blanket. The stitches kept sliding off the needles when turning on the short rows. By mirrored purling back to the beginning, no turning and no dropped stitches.
I knit and purl English style but with strait needles and purl almost faster than I knit. However, knitting backwards is very enjoyable for knitting intarsia : it is easier to distinguish the pattern from the knit side. Brilliant technique !
Thank you for the note! Using this technique in rib is no different than what I demonstrate...you'll work the stitches as I show, but alternate them for the rib. Hope that helps!
Was suggested that when I try to knit Entrelac that it helps to be able to mirror knit/knit back backwards save turning the work.....also as others have said the ten stitch blanket.......great video as always I do look at other videos but always come back to you as you seem to clear the oh my GOD fog very nicely.......
I knit "backwards" all the time (I'm a lefty). When I taught myself to knit, I tried knitting the regular English/American way, but it felt completely awkward, so I switched hands.
Emily Walton I'm the same way (fellow Lefty)! I knit exclusively "mirror image". I knit and purl like normal but my working needle is in my left hand. I get so much flack for it too from older knitters, they always tell me I'm doing it wrong, but I've had people tell things like that my whole life because I'm left handed.
Exactly! That's what I always say. It doesn't really bother me anymore, not like it did when I was a kid. At the end of it all you gotta do what you are most comfortable/satisfied with.
Thank you for showing the mirror purling as well! I was thinking about using mirror knitting for a scarf I'm making, but it has 4 sts of garter on the edges, lace on the front side and purl on the back... so now I can do the lace side normal and mirror knit the back using the mirror purl on the garter edges 👍
I somehow managed to figure this out on my own a few years ago but forgot how since I haven't used it since that project. it is truly amazing for entrelac. because even in the round you have to constantly turn your work.
Yes - you can use this technique for any stitch combination that has you knitting and purling back across a row. But at some point you have to ask yourself - would it be easier to turn the work? I find that this technique is best used if the wrong side of the work is mostly purl, which allows me to mirror knit across the row. If there are a lot of other stitches in the row, (especially if there are cable twists, increases, or decreases) it might be easier to turn the work.
I'm a Continental knitter and I agree that backward knitting is awkward. I heard that it works well when knitting the heel of a sock. But I don't mind purling. I will try Mirror knitting on a heel of a sock or short rows to compare the techniques. Thanks for your tutorial. You are always fun to watch.
I would say "continental backwards knitting" is what you were doing before you changed the yarn to your left hand, as in holding the yarn on the side you are knitting from. I'm left handed and I just do the exact same movements no matter which way I knit. If the stitches end up with the other leg in front, it's not a big deal, I just knit whichever leg is in front, unless the pattern asks to twist the stitch.
Thanks for doing this. I'm knitting the border around a baby blanket. The blanket begins in the center and works out, then when you have 227 stitches on each side you start working them off doing the edging at right angles to the blanket. The edging is 7 - 17 stitches wide and every little row you have to turn that whole blanket. It has both knit and purl stitches because it is lacey but the lace yo's are all done on the right side rows. So am going to give it a try.
I was hoping you would do a demo of this in your slo mo series but I just discovered RUclips now allows me to change the playback speed myself. You make it look easy when you "throw" and I would have to learn how to throw continental style when I try it. Thanks! Chuck
I've promised back backwards (motor knitting) for a while and enjoy it. I have to fo a 3 switch 9 row greater tab for a shawl. Thank you for including mirror purl or knitting back backwards.
I have heard of 4 types of knitting. Right handed English which is what I do, Right handed Continental which is where you knit backwards continental style, left handed continental, and left handed english where you knit backwards english style. Continental and English don't really have a handedness so to speak even though you often hear "Oh english is right handed and continental is left handed". All that both of those styles have is a forwards and backwards
I love mirror knitting! I'm designing a VERY long scarf with long braid cables, and mirror knitting works up great on the wrong side rows. Also, mirror purling is wonderful for tose 3 stitch purl collums.
+texassweetgrl I was just wondering why anyone would avoid purling because for me purling is actually easier than knitting. Now you mentioned I remember how I gave up on some of the patterns because I always messed up reading the chart!
I learned to do this when knitting entrelac via Elizabeth Zimmerman. I recently resurrected this technique while knitting with a DK weight cotton. There is no forgiveness with cotton and my regular stockinette stitching looked corrugated. (I have been knitting challenging things for MANY years, so my tension has never been an issue with wool and other fibers.) Mirrored knitting makes this project look wonderfully even. Shaping is a bit of a head-scratcher, but I am very pleased with this option.
Began using this technique when I did an entrelac project and have used it regularly since. Fixes the problem of looser pearl rows. I use the “backwards pearl” for garter borders or patterns on the pearl side of a stockinette projects. Otherwise I would have to turn the work to knit the few knit stitches.
I don't think that technique would be a favorite way for me.lol I could see myself getting all messed up....I have to tell you the green sweater is beautiful on you! I love the shades of green.
I wonder, if you're a continental knitter: couldn't you mirror your hands as well as the needles? Hold the yarn in your right hand and pick the stitches? (I'm only a beginner at continental, but am sure going to try it!) Update: yes, you totally can! But you'll be wrapping the yarn around the needle clockwise instead of the usual counterclockwise, and the stitches will be "backwards" on your needle (forevermore, if working in stockinette). With most yarn, the clockwise wrap will slightly untwist it, resulting in slightly less-defined stitches. But it's still a totally legit method, "officially" known as "combination knitting". It totally works on my current velvet yarn, though. Not sure if it will be my new default, but am glad to have added to my skillset!
I knit combination so don't mind purling but am trying my hand at Entrelac and while it is not a pretty fluid motion just yet it is proving to be nice and fast! Thanks so much for such great directions (as always!). : )
I'm using mirror purling for entrelac garter stitch. Thanks for the video, I've eliminated the zillions of turns for this project! Oo, short rows in garter stitch, too, like for shaping, that would be another use for mirror purl
I really enjoy mirror knitting. I am currently working on an intarsia blanket and it saves me time. I would like to learn mirror purling as well, but haven't gotten around to it yet. I am right handed and knit continental style.
Thank you for this video, I found a hat pattern with this really neat looking stitch pattern, and it calls for backwards knitting for making short rows. Now that I know what backwards knitting is I am going to start the hat. It is knit in the round.
I've designed a sweater with intarsia cables and I can see this as very useful when doing the turtleneck rather than carry multiple strands of the contrast color.
I've only just found out I mirror knit all the time. I only have 1 left hand. My right arm ends at the wrist. I use a knitting aid to hold the right needle. 35 years after my grandma taught me, it's mirror knitting!
hi, I've looked at some other knitters knit backwards, and what you are trying to do as 'continental backwards' isn't going to work, so you finding it very awkward is legitimate; your flicking technique, working backwards, is the best technique there is, and it is actually a continental backwards. People who hold the yarn in their left hand 'throw' the yarn a la English knitting for knitting backwards. So...all the more reason for me to learn your brilliant flicking technique.
Being able to do purl AND knit stitches backwards is good for entrelac knitting. You mentioned not being quite sure where being able to knit backwards would be as useful and I'm currently practicing both for that reason. Other than that, though, I don't think I'll need to do knit stitches backwards, but there ya have it! Thanks for this video!!
Haha! It is kind of mind-blowing, isn't it? To answer your question, yes. You can expect this to throw your gauge off, especially while you're still learning it. But you check gauge before you start every single project, right? Problem solved. :)
This is great! Could we maybe see how to slip the first stitch of a row please? Like when you are knitting normally (english style) and slip purl wise then take the yarn to the back. My brain doesnt want to work when i try to figure that part out haha. Thanks for the video.!
I am a Continental knitter. If you hold the wool on your left index finger, you can just move it forward to wrap the wool around the needle. The movement is the same that you do with your right index finger when you knit.
Knitting backwards purl is good if you want the finished product to be in garter. I'm doing the 10 stitch blanket and turning it every 10 stitches is tiresome so I'm going to practice this technique. Thanks for the video :)
This is how i taught myself to knit! I was so confused watching videos trying to figure out why no one else moved back and forth and instead flipped their work. Turned out i was just doing something weird. Gotta say its SOO much easier this way.
This is how I taught myself too! In early 90s so video tutorials were not a thing. Just imagine my frustration when I wanted to follow a pattern!
Samer here! I was always so confused until i figured out I was knitting backwards!
You're so cute! Just to ensure that you aren't saying we knit wrong. That's so sweet of you. As a lefty, sometimes I feel like a weirdo because most things are made for right handed folk. So thank you! :)
You are probably one of the best teachers I’ve watched. Clear instructions, good lighting, good angle, and good use of yarn color. Thank you!
I must learn step by step, it won't be easy.
I'm a continental "mirror" knitter because I'm a lefty. It's cool seeing someone else knitting my way!
When I first started practicing this technique, yes. I had tension issues in that my mirror knit rows were tighter than my regular knit rows. But after a few more inches of practicing, my tension is even. Just takes practice. :)
This is indeed exciting! I an a left handed knitter so everything is backwards....I wish you would go slower so I can watch your hands better and learn how you move each stitch ie: knit to purl ...so quickly. Love to watch but move too fast for me to catch it all. Thanks for taking your time to demonstrate for us.
@@eviejacobson6950 - here is my slo-mo video on mirror knitting: ruclips.net/video/Bn0OLmweP7g/видео.html
You had me at "never have to work another purl row ever."
Thank you so much!
It's so interesting to me to see some people dint like pulling, I don't mind it at all!
That's why I love reading comments, I get to learn so many other views!!!!
I'm not sure I fully understand your question, but I'm guessing you might be a "Combination" knitter. This technique, as I demonstrate it, is appropriate for knitters who wrap their stitches in the traditional way, and who do not knit "through the back loop" as their normal way of knitting. If you do something different in your normal way of knitting, the way that I demonstrate this technique would put an extra twist on your stitches, which would show in stockinette stitch.
I am ambidextrous so this technique is something I am getting very comfortable doing. This is something I have been interested in doing for a while now. Your more recent video of this way of knitting got me to try it finally and it is working out great. I am doing Frankie's ten stitch blanket and I never have to turn my work. It makes it go much faster. Especially with the w&ts.
oh wow that is mega cool ^-^ i hope you cherish that gift, it's very rare 🌹
Ha! I stopped to learn this technique (which I use with entrelac but never can remember how) to work on Frankie's Ten Stitch Blanket. You are so right, it makes the short rows so much easier.
I haven’t read all 314 comments, but as well as being grateful you are there for us, a use of backwards purling came to me when I started work on a large blanket (Meg Swansen’s Puzzle Pillow Blanket) in garter stitch. As it grows, turning the work will be cumbersome but backwards purling to the rescue!
You are adorable. I love how you acknowledge your awkwardness knitting Continental style. We all have our limitations and should not feel inadequate because of them. thanks for keeping it real.
Regarding this technique. I'm trilled to have this video as a reference. I just read about backward knitting in the book Vogue kitting Knitopedia the Ultimate A to Z for Knitters. I wanted to see it demonstrated and hoped you had a video... and you did! Oh happy day. thanks again for the valuable tutorial. And, by the way, the ombre sweater is gorgeous!
Yes - there is so much potential for this technique! I'm excited to see the ideas that everyone comes up with.
Hi Staci, I'm a continental knitter and switching the yarn to my right hand to mirror knit my purl rows like you do is awesome and easy. It is much easier than keeping the yarn in the left hand and feels very familiar to my hands even though it's feeding from the right not left. Then I knit the next row continental style as usual. Feels good because both my hands are training to do what's most efficient! Love your work, thank you!
You are probably the most helpful knitting tutor ever! Very descriptive and I am always really happy to see your videos pop up when I search for help!!!
I so agree! No one teaches the way she does. She is the "Knitting Ninja"!
Oh my word! This is absolutely blowing my mind! Love love love the video, your commentary AND mirror knitting! I'm a leftie continental knitter with some Norwegian knitting adaptations and trying this is so much fun. Thanks for sharing!
Oh! By the way, for leftie knitters, it's always going to be clockwise wrapping instead of counter-clockwise.
Thanks so much for info for lefties!..I also am and your hint of clockwise instead of counterclockwise made a big difference...my stitches are so much more even. Thanks again..glad I read comments!
I recently learned to entrelac and the only thing I did not like about it was turning the work every minute. So glad I found this technique. Think it will help to keep my kitty happy in my lap while I work too, as turning the work means she has to be disturbed! lol
Rodeo Prinsessa ooh that’s interesting! Definitely going to attack an entrelac pattern the moment I get home!
Me too. I knitted a single bed sized throw in entrelac & after a certain amount it was just too heavy to keep turning my work and I ended up using this technique.
As an English born English knitter I have never feared purling. This has me intrigued even though I don't envisage ever using this technique though, it's always cool to learn.
I do love how clear and concise your videos are, without rambling and also not taking yourself too seriously when you commented on how it's painful to watch you continental knit!
LOVE your videos.❤🧶
And double thanks for saying "always wrap counter-clockwise". I figured that out, but since it was a conclusion I came to myself, hearing it from an expert really helps. No matter what the stitch, wrap clockwise! Thanks!
When my Nanna first taught me to knit many years ago, I accidentally taught myself mirror knitting, and I am very glad I did. Not only is it especially handy for entralac or other styles where you knit very short rows. Strangely I am quick at my mirror rows than my "normal" (In my "normal" knitting I am also a flicker, but when I mirror knit I turn into a continental knitter.) ones and find I can do large pieces of stocking stitch in no time at all without having to purl a single stitch. .
I guess this all what someone is used to. I am left handed and have always knitted this way since childhood, it's very fast for me and I don't let go of the wrapping yarn ever. So, I use a combination of Continental Knitting, and then Mirror Knitting for the return. It is very very easy for left handed people and those of us who are ambidextrous (I also write backwards) Love your videos and podcast.... You are the best, Staci.
I always thought that purling was easier than knitting, because all of the action takes place in front of the needles, so I can see what I'm doing! So I'm less likely to split, drop, or grab the wrong stitch. Kind of like in gymnastics, where back flips are easier to land than front flips because you can see the floor (or beam!) before you land on it!
I love this method thank you x I think it will be very useful when using more than one ball of yarn as without turning the work the strands wont get twisted so much
I’m pretty sure this is how my grandma taught me how to knit. I remember if I ever put down a project halfway through I always had difficultly remembering which way I was going. I stopped knitting at the age of about 11 years old and recently picked it up again now at 23. This cleared up my confusion as why I would ever be confused by the direction I was knitting! Thank you so much!
After learning to Portuguese purl I will never avoid purling for any reason-I now almost prefer to purl 🤩
Yes, they are very shiny! All of the information about things you'll see in this video are listed out in the video description field, just below the video. These needles are Addi Turbos.
OMGOODNESS!! I looked at this video several months ago and decided to give it a try; you are SOOOO right, I may never purl again!🥰🤩🤩
Thanks for teaching the mirror purl as well. I'm binding off EZ's Pi shawl using the sideways garter stitch BO. Not having to turn the work for the purl side for just 8 stitches makes this BO go faster especially since there is over 500 stitches to BO!
Miss Staci, knitting back backwards is such a blessing to know especially when I do Bavarian knitting. This way you are always working with the right side facing you. Great demo. :)
Thank you so much! I find continental so much easier since I have messed up my dominant hand. This has saved me so much time! Plus I don't drop stitches and I don't get confused what kind of stitch I'm on now. It also makes my yarn a lot more clean to deal with. I don't feel like it's hopeless for me to actually finish a project now!
I love this technique! I began practicing last night and think I have it now...even with the purl stitches :)
Thank you for posting this video!
You are awesome! Thank you so much. I went through books and videos for days until I found this. So clear, instructive and helpful. What a great teacher you are.
I've found this technique is really helpful in two places.
1) if I'm knitting fair isle/jacquard items flat. I can keep super even tension with both my yarns, and always holding both helps me keep colour dominance in check.
2) When making afghans and large blankets. It's been especially useful and time-saving while making the ten stitch blanket. Backward continental purling is becoming something of a forté now!
Thanks for the tutorial!
SaintHaHaLOLZ I watched this video because I'm knitting a ten stitch blanket (the circular version) right now and I'm tired of turning it!
I was going to say the very same thing. Much easier then flipping and tangling. I also am Continental so I find purls are easier than knits.
oh my stars that is amazing.
Will have to try it.
This would be great if you needed to knit a very long piece.
It will be hard I learned to knit as a chid and am now 70 years old.
Like to learn new things so will try.
Thanks so much for showing us.
Happy knitting.
I used the mirror purl stitch on your 10 stitch blanket... I was making a rather large one and it was a lot less flipping and flapping. Thank you for showing both!
Yes, you'd need to combine backwards knitting and backwards purling to work across that row. You sort of have to ask yourself which you prefer...if it's almost equal knitting and purling, it might just be easier to turn the work. Unless you're up for a kind of cool challenge. :)
I have done this for years and years and never knew it had a name at all. I don't wrap counter clock wise. I think the only thing a person has to pay attention to is which leg of the knit is in front or back. Its a matter of putting the needle where your legs won't get twisted. I always have the yarn in front to purl and yarn in back to knit. For lace knitting I find it invaluable not to turn the work. I can check for mistakes on the way back. Sometimes I can fix them without pulling everything out.
This video saved an entralac throw that has become quite bulky to continue to turn for purling so, I put it on the "Eventually Pile" which is really the "I am sick of this project" pile. :-)
I am back on my project and enjoying it again. Thank you.
Love the idea of an "eventually pile" - or even better, the "I am sick of this project pile" lol!! Similar things in this house are known as UFOs - UnFinished Objects. I'm afraid I've got rather a lot of those... This is a great knitting technique, isn't it. Just discovered it today and don't think I shall look back now. I have never heard of entralac so must look this up!
Just gave this a go and I love it. I know you said you wouldn't use it for whole rows but that's what I'm going to do if I can get good at it. I'm a "flicker" but I have RSI issues with my right wrist and my purl flick twists my right wrist awkwardly so instead I let go of the right needle completely and use almost a whole arm movement to wrap the yarn which is slow and laborious. This mirror method allows me to purl without twisting my right wrist so could be really useful for me. Thank you!
I needed the 'mirror purl' instructions when I was doing a garter stitch border on a blanket. Perfect!
Once I start to practice this, I'm not sure I will ever want to go back to purling again! Awesome technique! Thanks for showing us!
This is how I have knitted since I started to learn to knit I am a true left handed knitter. My left hand needle is always the workimg needle. I am a self taught knitter now I learn it is a new technique. Now I can say I am a mirror knitter LOL Thanks for the video it was fun to watch how I knit and purl. If I mirror purled I would be knitting like a right handed person. Where ever I go people say wow you knit backwards.
Glad I found this. I am about to make a scarf in lace weight with lots of very thin vertical stripes . I was dreading the thought of the tangled mess that could easily become - but backwards (mirror) knitting might allow me to work across all those colours without tangling at all! Thanks so much for demonstrating this.
Thank you for demonstrating the purl also! With double knitting knowing how to use it with a purl stitch is awesome. I'm going to try it.
You are awesome! Thank you for responding. I did Google this method last night and found those videos you reference. I love this technique. My only challenge now is that the fabric blocks my view but I'll keep working with it. I learn from many of your videos. Thanks.
This is too funny! I came to knitting from crochet and when I first started, I would knit continental and wrap the "wrong" way, resulting in twisted stitches. Now I know I was just mirror knitting on the wrong side! Love it.
I love this way of knitting. I have always been a crocheter but I have been teaching myself to knit through RUclips . I find your videos very helpful. Thank you can't wait to try this. Maybe I will stay out of work to practice this lol. Thanks again
I found a purpose for the mirror purl stitch. When making the 10 stitch blanket don't wrap and turn. Wrap and mirror purl back so you don't drop stitches while turning your work. It really comes in handy when your blanket gets very large.
Thank you SO much for this technique !! hate to purl and this can be such a great new way for me!!
Thank you sooo much for showing how to do this technique as a continental knitter! My head hurt there for a minute 😂
I have tried continental knitting the first row and mirror knitting the second. It felt confortable. Basically I am an English knitter. Thank you for your very interesting video.🌻🌼💐
The needles I'm using are a size 9 US.
As for uses for mirror purling: im doing a shawl that has garter stitch short rows (a lot of them). I sought this out to avoid flipping back and forth for only 4, 3, and then 2 stitches for every short row.
Thanks for posting this!
i was about to ask if mirror purling would be used for garter stitch; thanks for answering my question before i have a chance to ask!
I am not at all aversive against purling but I knit right to left when knitting short rows.
Very good tuto (as usual 😘), especially because you always show and explain different ways of implementation.
I recently found a need for the mirrored purling. I'm working on the ten stitch blanket. The stitches kept sliding off the needles when turning on the short rows. By mirrored purling back to the beginning, no turning and no dropped stitches.
I did that also. Purling mirrored is a bit harder I think.
I love your videos! You’ve helped me improve so much as a knitter! You’re a great teacher! Thank you! ☺️
I knit and purl English style but with strait needles and purl almost faster than I knit. However, knitting backwards is very enjoyable for knitting intarsia : it is easier to distinguish the pattern from the knit side. Brilliant technique !
Thank you for the note! Using this technique in rib is no different than what I demonstrate...you'll work the stitches as I show, but alternate them for the rib. Hope that helps!
Was suggested that when I try to knit Entrelac that it helps to be able to mirror knit/knit back backwards save turning the work.....also as others have said the ten stitch blanket.......great video as always I do look at other videos but always come back to you as you seem to clear the oh my GOD fog very nicely.......
I knit "backwards" all the time (I'm a lefty). When I taught myself to knit, I tried knitting the regular English/American way, but it felt completely awkward, so I switched hands.
Emily Walton I'm the same way (fellow Lefty)! I knit exclusively "mirror image". I knit and purl like normal but my working needle is in my left hand. I get so much flack for it too from older knitters, they always tell me I'm doing it wrong, but I've had people tell things like that my whole life because I'm left handed.
Jo Jo it's not wrong if it works for you and you're happy with your finished piece!!
Exactly! That's what I always say. It doesn't really bother me anymore, not like it did when I was a kid. At the end of it all you gotta do what you are most comfortable/satisfied with.
Thank you for showing the mirror purling as well! I was thinking about using mirror knitting for a scarf I'm making, but it has 4 sts of garter on the edges, lace on the front side and purl on the back... so now I can do the lace side normal and mirror knit the back using the mirror purl on the garter edges 👍
I somehow managed to figure this out on my own a few years ago but forgot how since I haven't used it since that project. it is truly amazing for entrelac. because even in the round you have to constantly turn your work.
Yes - you can use this technique for any stitch combination that has you knitting and purling back across a row. But at some point you have to ask yourself - would it be easier to turn the work? I find that this technique is best used if the wrong side of the work is mostly purl, which allows me to mirror knit across the row. If there are a lot of other stitches in the row, (especially if there are cable twists, increases, or decreases) it might be easier to turn the work.
Thank you! I have put so many projects down because I didn't understand this! Now I am going to try again.
I'm a Continental knitter and I agree that backward knitting is awkward. I heard that it works well when knitting the heel of a sock. But I don't mind purling. I will try Mirror knitting on a heel of a sock or short rows to compare the techniques. Thanks for your tutorial. You are always fun to watch.
I taught myself to do this when knitting entrelac, it saves SO much time and hassle with all the turning.
I would say "continental backwards knitting" is what you were doing before you changed the yarn to your left hand, as in holding the yarn on the side you are knitting from. I'm left handed and I just do the exact same movements no matter which way I knit. If the stitches end up with the other leg in front, it's not a big deal, I just knit whichever leg is in front, unless the pattern asks to twist the stitch.
Thanks for doing this. I'm knitting the border around a baby blanket. The blanket begins in the center and works out, then when you have 227 stitches on each side you start working them off doing the edging at right angles to the blanket. The edging is 7 - 17 stitches wide and every little row you have to turn that whole blanket. It has both knit and purl stitches because it is lacey but the lace yo's are all done on the right side rows. So am going to give it a try.
I was hoping you would do a demo of this in your slo mo series but I just discovered RUclips now allows me to change the playback speed myself. You make it look easy when you "throw" and I would have to learn how to throw continental style when I try it. Thanks! Chuck
Yes, you can work ribbing with this technique. You'll just need to alternate knit and purl stitches, as you would normal direction.
Your video just solved all of my intarsia problems!
I've promised back backwards (motor knitting) for a while and enjoy it. I have to fo a 3 switch 9 row greater tab for a shawl. Thank you for including mirror purl or knitting back backwards.
I have heard of 4 types of knitting. Right handed English which is what I do, Right handed Continental which is where you knit backwards continental style, left handed continental, and left handed english where you knit backwards english style. Continental and English don't really have a handedness so to speak even though you often hear "Oh english is right handed and continental is left handed". All that both of those styles have is a forwards and backwards
I love mirror knitting! I'm designing a VERY long scarf with long braid cables, and mirror knitting works up great on the wrong side rows. Also, mirror purling is wonderful for tose 3 stitch purl collums.
+texassweetgrl I was just wondering why anyone would avoid purling because for me purling is actually easier than knitting. Now you mentioned I remember how I gave up on some of the patterns because I always messed up reading the chart!
Really clear demonstration! Thank you for teaching me a new skill ❤🧶
I learned to do this when knitting entrelac via Elizabeth Zimmerman. I recently resurrected this technique while knitting with a DK weight cotton. There is no forgiveness with cotton and my regular stockinette stitching looked corrugated. (I have been knitting challenging things for MANY years, so my tension has never been an issue with wool and other fibers.) Mirrored knitting makes this project look wonderfully even. Shaping is a bit of a head-scratcher, but I am very pleased with this option.
I use this technique when knitting the ten stitch blanket. I absolutely love this technique.
Began using this technique when I did an entrelac project and have used it regularly since. Fixes the problem of looser pearl rows. I use the “backwards pearl” for garter borders or patterns on the pearl side of a stockinette projects. Otherwise I would have to turn the work to knit the few knit stitches.
Thank you for your video! when I got back home from work, I'll try this technique
I don't think that technique would be a favorite way for me.lol I could see myself getting all messed up....I have to tell you the green sweater is beautiful on you! I love the shades of green.
I wonder, if you're a continental knitter: couldn't you mirror your hands as well as the needles? Hold the yarn in your right hand and pick the stitches? (I'm only a beginner at continental, but am sure going to try it!)
Update: yes, you totally can! But you'll be wrapping the yarn around the needle clockwise instead of the usual counterclockwise, and the stitches will be "backwards" on your needle (forevermore, if working in stockinette).
With most yarn, the clockwise wrap will slightly untwist it, resulting in slightly less-defined stitches.
But it's still a totally legit method, "officially" known as "combination knitting".
It totally works on my current velvet yarn, though. Not sure if it will be my new default, but am glad to have added to my skillset!
I knit combination so don't mind purling but am trying my hand at Entrelac and while it is not a pretty fluid motion just yet it is proving to be nice and fast! Thanks so much for such great directions (as always!). : )
I'm using mirror purling for entrelac garter stitch. Thanks for the video, I've eliminated the zillions of turns for this project!
Oo, short rows in garter stitch, too, like for shaping, that would be another use for mirror purl
Oh my gosh you have taught me so much - seriously. Your videos are so helpful - thank you!
I really enjoy mirror knitting. I am currently working on an intarsia blanket and it saves me time. I would like to learn mirror purling as well, but haven't gotten around to it yet. I am right handed and knit continental style.
Your nail polish is gorgeous!
Thank you for this video, I found a hat pattern with this really neat looking stitch pattern, and it calls for backwards knitting for making short rows. Now that I know what backwards knitting is I am going to start the hat. It is knit in the round.
I've designed a sweater with intarsia cables and I can see this as very useful when doing the turtleneck rather than carry multiple strands of the contrast color.
I've only just found out I mirror knit all the time. I only have 1 left hand. My right arm ends at the wrist. I use a knitting aid to hold the right needle. 35 years after my grandma taught me, it's mirror knitting!
I found mirror purling very useful when adding a 10 st border to my pin hole baby blanket, no more flipping my work!
I love this technique for entrelac. Makes it so much smoother and faster.
Yes, you can work this while holding the yarn in your left or right hand, whichever is natural to you.
If you're going to knit entrelac this is indispensable. There is so much turning in entrelac that it's a real pain, but doing this makes it SO easy.
Comes in handy when working short rows and entrelac.
Very interesting! Especially when you have several yarn threads which always get tangled when turning the work. I'll try this for sure! Thank you :)
hi, I've looked at some other knitters knit backwards, and what you are trying to do as 'continental backwards' isn't going to work, so you finding it very awkward is legitimate; your flicking technique, working backwards, is the best technique there is, and it is actually a continental backwards. People who hold the yarn in their left hand 'throw' the yarn a la English knitting for knitting backwards. So...all the more reason for me to learn your brilliant flicking technique.
I am having such a great time practicing this. Laughing like a maniac it is so much fun. Holy wow this is so cool!
Being able to do purl AND knit stitches backwards is good for entrelac knitting. You mentioned not being quite sure where being able to knit backwards would be as useful and I'm currently practicing both for that reason. Other than that, though, I don't think I'll need to do knit stitches backwards, but there ya have it! Thanks for this video!!
Haha! It is kind of mind-blowing, isn't it? To answer your question, yes. You can expect this to throw your gauge off, especially while you're still learning it. But you check gauge before you start every single project, right? Problem solved. :)
This is great! Could we maybe see how to slip the first stitch of a row please? Like when you are knitting normally (english style) and slip purl wise then take the yarn to the back. My brain doesnt want to work when i try to figure that part out haha. Thanks for the video.!
I am a Continental knitter. If you hold the wool on your left index finger, you can just move it forward to wrap the wool around the needle. The movement is the same that you do with your right index finger when you knit.
Knitting backwards purl is good if you want the finished product to be in garter. I'm doing the 10 stitch blanket and turning it every 10 stitches is tiresome so I'm going to practice this technique. Thanks for the video :)