Knitting in the English Style
English knitting (also called "throwing") holds the working yarn in the right hand and wraps it around the right needle for each stitch. It is the dominant knitting style in the UK, North America, and former British colonies.
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Mechanics
The right hand holds the working yarn against the right needle. For each stitch, the right hand "throws" the yarn over the needle from back to front (knit) or front to back (purl). The left hand holds the work and provides tension.
Speed
Slower than Continental for most knitters but more comfortable for those who learned this way as children. Many North American knitters have used English style for decades and are very fast despite the slower fundamental motion.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Purling
English purling is more natural than Continental purling for most beginners. The throwing motion is the same as the knit but in the opposite direction.
Best uses
Beginners who find Continental difficult to learn. Knitters with limited left-hand dexterity. Two-handed stranded colourwork (the non-dominant colour is held in the right/English hand).
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| k | knit |
| p | purl |
Tips
- English purling is easier to learn than Continental purling.
- For two-handed stranded colourwork, English in the right hand is the standard for the non-dominant colour.
- Most North American knitters learn English first.
In depth
English knitting is the traditional style in the UK and North America. Despite the slower fundamental motion, expert English knitters are very fast and the style remains the most-taught in beginner classes in English-speaking countries.