Mastering the PFB (Purl Front and Back) Increase in Knitting
When it comes to increasing stitches in your knitting projects, PFB (Purl Front and Back) is an essential technique, especially for projects that rely on purl stitches. It’s the purl equivalent of the KFB (Knit Front and Back) and can be a valuable tool in your knitting skillset. In this post, we’ll break down how to work a PFB and when to use it.
What is PFB?
PFB stands for Purl Front and Back. It is an increase stitch that adds one stitch to your row by purling into both the front and back of the same stitch. This creates a small visible bump, similar to the KFB, making it a “bar increase” that blends well into purl stitch patterns.
When to Use PFB
The PFB increase is most commonly used when you need to add stitches on the purl side of your work. It's perfect for shaping garments, increasing in purl-heavy patterns, or when you need a discreet increase that fits into ribbing, stockinette, or garter stitch patterns.
How to Work a PFB (Step-by-Step)
Purl into the front loop of the next stitch as you normally would, but don’t slide the stitch off the left needle yet.
Purl into the back loop of the same stitch. To do this, bring your right needle around to the back of the left needle and purl through the back of the stitch.
Now slide the stitch off the left needle. You’ve just turned one stitch into two!
Tips for PFB
Tension: Like the KFB, the PFB can create a small bar across the stitch, so make sure to keep your tension even to maintain consistency in your fabric.
Practice: If you’re new to this technique, practice on a small swatch to get comfortable with maneuvering the needles, especially when purling into the back loop, which can feel a bit awkward at first.
PFB in Action
The PFB is a versatile increase that you’ll find in many knitting patterns, from sweaters to shawls. Whether you're shaping sleeves or adding stitches in a textured pattern, the PFB is an easy way to grow your project while keeping it smooth and professional-looking on the purl side.
Now that you’ve learned PFB, you’re ready to tackle any pattern that calls for purl increases! If you want to see more tutorials or need further help with your knitting projects, check out our tutorial section or search specific stitches on our website.