Twisted Purl Stitch or Purl 1 Through the Back Loop (abbreviated p1-tbl)

Twisted stitches are worked through the back loop (or leg of the stitch) to create more stitch definition. Generally, twisted purl stitches are used in rib, cable or textured patterns to make them pop. Working in the back loop also produces a tighter stitch. It can be helpful to use in places where your stitching would naturally loosen up. For instance, the stitch right after a cable can sometimes be loose. Try working it through the back loop to tighten up that area on your fabric.

Some Europeans are taught to purl all of their stitches through the back loop. This won’t produce a strange fabric if all stitches are worked in that manner.

Purl stitches have two “legs.” The front leg, or right leg, is the portion of the loop closest to you on your knitting needle. The back leg, or left leg, is the one farther from you. To work the twisted purl stitch, insert the right-hand knitting needle through the back leg of the next stitch on the left-hand needle. You will have to maneuver your work to get the needle to the far side of the back leg to work into from the back. Then, complete as a purl stitch.