Mastering Reverse Knitting for Smoother Rows
Have you ever been deep in an intricate project—entrelac, bobbles, or short rows—and found yourself constantly turning your work every few stitches? If so, reverse knitting (also known as knitting backward) is about to become your new favorite technique.
Reverse knitting allows you to work from left to right without turning your work, eliminating the need to purl when knitting flat. This can save time, reduce strain, and help keep your tension consistent.
When to Use Reverse Knitting
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Entrelac: No more flipping your work every 6-8 stitches.
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Bobbles: Reverse knit the few stitches for a quick turnaround.
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Short Rows: Minimize interruptions and avoid awkward wraps.
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Colorwork or Intarsia: Maintain visual control of the front side.
How to Knit in Reverse (From Left to Right)
To practice, work a few rows in regular knitting (garter stitch works great), then try the following when you reach the end of a right-side row:
Reverse Stockinette (Knitting Backwards Instead of Purling):
- Insert your left needle from back to front into the back loop of the stitch on your right needle.
- Wrap the yarn over and around the left needle, counterclockwise (the opposite of a normal knit stitch).
- Pull the loop through and slide the old stitch off the right needle.
- You’ve just completed a backward knit stitch!
Repeat this process across the row without turning your work. You’ll be creating purl stitches on the right side—but without actually purling!
Tips for Success
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Practice slowly at first—this motion will feel awkward until your hands adjust.
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Use smooth, light-colored yarn to see your stitches clearly.
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Try a swatch in garter or stockinette so you can compare results.
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For reverse purling (knitting backward on the wrong side to create knit stitches), the motion is slightly different, but most knitters only need reverse knitting.
- Follow Doris' walk-through video below:
Why We Love It
Reverse knitting is a neat trick to have in your knitting toolkit. It may not replace purling in every situation, but for projects that require constant turning and short sections, it can be a game-changer. Plus, it looks impressive—and who doesn't want to look like a yarn wizard at knit night?
Want to Learn in Person?
Join us for our upcoming technique spotlight, where we’ll practice reverse knitting and explore its applications in entrelac and bobble projects, Saturday, August 24, 2025, 2:00 P.M. - 3:30 P.M.
