How to Do the PFB Stitch: Step-by-Step Knitting Tutorial

Learn how to do the pfb stitch with my step-by-step guide! See photos, video, and more on my knitting tutorial page.

Why Learn the PFB Stitch?

If you’ve ever wanted to add stitches to your knitting in a way that looks neat and doesn’t leave a hole, the pfb stitch (purl front and back) is a must-have in your knitting toolbox. I’ve used this increase in several of my designs, and I keep coming back to it because it’s both functional and simple once you get the hang of it.

The pfb stitch increases one stitch by turning a single purl stitch into two, which comes in handy for shaping everything from socks to sweaters. And since we’re all about making our knitting life easier (and prettier), learning how to do the pfb stitch will definitely make you feel more confident the next time you see it pop up in a pattern.

What You’ll Need for This Tutorial

When I filmed and photographed this tutorial, I grabbed one of my favorite yarns: Berroco Ultra Alpaca (affiliate link). It’s soft, durable, and has just enough halo to make stitches look full and defined. Perfect for showing the details of the pfb stitch!

You’ll also want:

  • A set of knitting needles in a size that works well with your yarn.
  • Good lighting (trust me, it helps when working into the back of a stitch).
  • A little patience the first couple of tries.

What Is the PFB Stitch?

Let’s break it down simply. The pfb stitch stands for “purl front and back.” That means you’re going to purl into the same stitch twice: once as usual, and then again through the back loop.

The beauty of the pfb stitch is that it looks tidy and doesn’t create big gaps or eyelets. Unlike a yarn over, which intentionally leaves a hole, this method makes your knitting look smooth while still adding that extra stitch you need.

Step-by-Step Written Instructions for the PFB Stitch

Here’s exactly how to do the pfb stitch:

Purl into the stitch as normal but do not remove the stitch from your holding needle.

Purl through the back loop of the same stitch.

Now remove that stitch off of your holding needle.

That’s it—you’ve just worked one stitch into two! You’ve successfully increased using the pfb stitch.

When you look at your fabric, you’ll notice the increase is subtle. It’s not invisible, but it blends in nicely and is less noticeable than other increase methods.

Why I Love the PFB Stitch

The pfb stitch is one of those techniques that feels like a magic trick when you first learn it. Suddenly, your project grows faster, and you didn’t even have to stop your rhythm much.

I love using the pfb stitch for:

  • Sock gussets: It gives the extra room needed without distorting the fabric.
  • Sweater shaping: Especially when I want a softer look instead of sharp increases.
  • Baby items: The tidy look of the increase works well with delicate patterns.

Right-Handed and Left-Handed Tutorials

One thing I’ve learned from my knitting community is that not everyone knits the same way. Some of us are right-handed, some of us are left-handed, and the pfb stitch can feel different depending on your knitting style.

That’s why in this post, I’ve included pictures showing both right-handed and left-handed instructions. And if you’re a video learner like me, I’ve also filmed a step-by-step YouTube tutorial walking you through both versions.

I’ve heard your requests loud and clear—no more confusion about increases if you’re a left-handed knitter. I’ve got you covered!

Watch the Video Tutorial

Sometimes, seeing a stitch in motion is worth a thousand words (or, in this case, a thousand knits and purls). That’s why I made a video tutorial you can follow along with.

In the video, you’ll see:

  • The pfb stitch worked right-handed.
  • The pfb stitch worked left-handed.

If you’ve ever struggled with increases before, I think this video will clear things right up. Be sure to check it out on my YouTube channel!

Patterns That Use the PFB Stitch

This is the fun part—once you’ve learned the pfb stitch, where can you use it?

👉Toe Up September Socks Free Pattern– These already feature this increase.

👉 Upcoming Toe Up Vanilla Sock Free Pattern – Keep an eye out, because the pfb stitch will make an appearance there too.

By trying the pfb stitch in a project, you’ll get real-life practice and see how useful it can be in shaping your knitting.

Common Mistakes When Learning the PFB Stitch

Let me save you some frustration by pointing out what can go wrong when learning the pfb stitch:

  1. Forgetting to purl the back loop. Sometimes knitters get excited and slip the stitch off the needle too soon. Remember, it’s front and back.
  2. Splitting the yarn. When you purl through the back loop, you might accidentally catch only part of the yarn. Take your time, especially with splitty fibers like cottons.
  3. Tight tension. If your stitches are too tight, purling through the back loop can feel impossible. Try loosening up just a bit.

Why the PFB Stitch Works So Well

The reason the pfb stitch looks so neat compared to other increases is that the back-loop purl twists the stitch. That little twist helps close up what could otherwise be a hole. The result? A tidy increase that blends nicely into stockinette or ribbing.

It’s a subtle detail, but as knitters, we all know that subtle details make a big difference in the finished fabric.

Practicing the PFB Stitch

Here’s a quick practice swatch idea if you want to get comfortable before trying the pfb stitch in a real project:

  1. Cast on 20 stitches.
  2. Work 3 rows in stockinette (knit one row, purl one row).
  3. On the next purl row, work a pfb stitch every 5 stitches.
  4. Continue in stockinette for a few rows.

This will let you see how the increases affect your fabric and give you confidence before you dive into socks, sweaters, or other projects.

Tips for Success with the PFB Stitch

  • Use a yarn with good stitch definition when you’re first learning (like Berroco Ultra Alpaca—affiliate link).
  • Don’t rush—slow down and focus on purling through the back loop correctly.
  • Practice with larger needles and yarn if you’re struggling. Bigger stitches are easier to see and manipulate.

Where the PFB Stitch Fits Into Your Knitting Toolbox

There are lots of different increases—yarn overs, make one left/right, knit front and back—but the pfb stitch earns its place because it’s easy, effective, and neat.

Think of it as one of those trusty techniques you’ll always be glad you learned. It might not be the star of every pattern, but when you need it, it’s exactly what the fabric calls for.

I hope this tutorial makes you feel excited to try the pfb stitch. It’s one of those small knitting skills that can make a big difference in your projects. And remember, it’s not just about learning the stitch—it’s about applying it to something you’ll actually wear and love.

So grab your yarn, give it a try, and let me know how it goes. And don’t forget to check out the patterns that use the pfb stitch—especially those socks I mentioned earlier.

Have you tried the pfb stitch before? Do you like it better than other increase methods, or is there another one you prefer? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!

The post How to Do the PFB Stitch: Step-by-Step Knitting Tutorial appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.



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