KnitOnePurlOne: How to Knit One Purl One

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

Knitting is a versatile craft with endless possibilities, and one of the fundamental stitches every knitter should master is the classic 1×1 rib stitch, often referred to as KnitOnePurlOne.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating a reversible fabric that looks the same on both sides, making it ideal for various projects such as cuffs, bands, or waistbands.

Highlights:

What is Knit One Purl – (KnitOnePurlOne)

KnitOnePurlOne, often abbreviated as K1P1, is a basic knitting technique that alternates between a knit stitch and a purl stitch, creating a reversible fabric with a distinctive ribbed pattern. It is commonly used for cuffs, bands, and waistbands due to its stretch and versatility.

How to Knit One Purl One – (KnitOnePurlOne)

To knit one purl one (KnitOnePurlOne), alternate between knitting and purling stitches, ensuring the yarn is at the back for knits and at the front for purls. This creates a reversible 1×1 rib stitch, perfect for cuffs and bands.

Let’s go into the detailed procedure:

Materials Needed

Before we begin the step-by-step process, make sure you have the following materials on hand:

1. Yarn of your choice
2. Knitting needles suitable for your yarn
3. A comfortable and well-lit workspace

Step 1: Casting On

Begin by casting on the desired number of stitches. For a 1×1 rib stitch, ensure the total number of stitches is even.

Step 2: Understanding the Basics

The 1×1 rib stitch alternates between a knit stitch and a purl stitch. While the fabric appears the same on both sides, only the knit stitches are visibly prominent due to the way the fabric is pulled together. This tension creates what is known as negative ease, making it perfect for projects where stretch and elasticity are essential.

Step 3: The Knit Stitch

To execute the knit stitch:

Step 4: The Purl Stitch

For the purl stitch:

Step 5: Maintaining the Pattern

It’s crucial to pay attention to the yarn position for each stitch. For knit stitches, the yarn should always be at the back of the needle, and the yarn should be at the front for purl stitches.

Step 6: Checking Your Work

To avoid common mistakes like unintentional yarnovers, always ensure the yarn is correctly positioned before each stitch. This will help maintain an even and tight ribbing pattern.

How Do You Do K1p1 in the Round?

Ensure your total stitch count is divisible by 2. Mark the beginning of your round, then follow a consistent rhythm of K1P1, starting with knit one stitch, moving the yarn to the front, purling one stitch, and repeating.

Materials Needed

1. Yarn: Choose a yarn of your preference, considering the weight and color of your project. The yarn should suit the garment or accessory you plan to knit.
2. Knitting Needles: Select circular knitting needles (e.g., Boye 3216327007M) with a length appropriate for the circumference of your project. The needle size should match the recommended size for your chosen yarn.
3. Stitch Marker: Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round. This helps you track where you started and ensures a seamless transition between rounds.

Optional accessories:

1. Scissors: Keep a pair of scissors handy for cutting the yarn when needed.
2. Yarn Needle: A yarn needle is useful for weaving in loose ends and finishing your project.

To knit a 1×1 ribbing in the round, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Start with a Divisible-by-Two Stitch Count

Ensure that the total number of stitches on your needle is divisible by 2, as the knit one purl one (K1 P1) pattern is a 2-stitch repeat.

Step 2: Identify Your Starting Point

Mark the beginning of your round with a stitch marker or the tail. This helps you keep track of where you started.

Step 3: Initiate the K1 P1 Pattern

Begin your round with K1 P1. For example, knit one stitch, move the yarn to the front, purl one stitch, and repeat.

Step 4: Reading Your Knitting

Observe your work if you’re unsure whether the next stitch should be a knit or a purl. Knit stitches resemble a V, while purl stitches look like a bump. Continue the K1 P1 pattern, ensuring you knit and purl the knits.

Step 5: Maintain Consistency

Keep a consistent rhythm of knitting and purling, moving the yarn between stitches as needed. This creates a stacked ribbing effect.

Step 6: End with the Correct Stitch

Since the K1 P1 pattern is a 2-stitch repeat, ensure your round ends with the correct stitch. For instance, if you start with a knit, end with a purl, and vice versa.

Step 7: Continue in the Round

Continue working in the round, repeating the K1 P1 pattern. The beauty of this ribbing is its elasticity and forgiving nature, making it suitable for various projects.

Step 8: No Right or Wrong Side

Unlike flat knitting, where there’s a distinct right and wrong side, 1×1 ribbing in the round looks the same on both sides. Enjoy the simplicity and versatility of this classic ribbing technique.

FAQs

What materials do I need for K1P1 knitting?

You’ll need yarn of your choice, knitting needles suitable for your yarn, and a comfortable and well-lit workspace.

Is K1P1 suitable for flat knitting projects?

Yes, many people prefer K1P1 for flat knitting projects like scarves, as it creates a reversible fabric with no distinct right or wrong side.

What’s the importance of maintaining yarn position in K1P1 knitting?

It’s crucial to keep the yarn at the back for knit stitches and at the front for purl stitches. This ensures the correct formation of each stitch, maintaining an even and tight ribbing pattern.

Can I use K1P1 for various stitch counts?

Yes, K1P1 is versatile, and as long as your total stitch count is divisible by 2, you can use it for different projects, from large sweaters to small socks.

How does K1P1 in the round differ from flat knitting?

In the round, K1P1 looks the same on both sides, eliminating the need for a distinct right or wrong side. This makes it a convenient choice for circular knitting projects.

What’s the benefit of negative ease in the 1×1 rib stitch?

Negative ease, created by the tension in the 1×1 rib stitch, makes the fabric super elastic and forgiving. It’s excellent for projects like cuffs and bands where stretch and flexibility are essential.

Conclusion

You’ve just mastered the art of KnitOnePurlOne, creating a beautiful 1×1 rib stitch. This versatile technique can be applied to various knitting projects, adding texture and stretch to your creations. Practice and patience are key, so take your time and enjoy the rhythmic flow of this classic knitting stitch.

Malinda Bailey

“I like to turn a piece of string into something that I can wear.” I am dedicated to sharing knowledge on the necessary sewing equipment in The Sewing Stuffs.