Demystifying the Knitting Lingo- Unraveling the Meaning of ‘PM’ in Patterns
What does PM stand for in knitting patterns? This is a common question among knitters, especially those who are new to the craft. PM, in the context of knitting patterns, is an abbreviation that stands for “purl mississippi.” It is used to indicate a specific type of purl stitch that is unique to the knitting technique. Understanding what PM means and how to execute it correctly can greatly enhance the quality and appearance of your knitting projects.
Knitting patterns often include a variety of abbreviations to make the instructions easier to follow. PM is one of these abbreviations, and it is essential to know its meaning to ensure that your knitting turns out as intended. In this article, we will explore what PM stands for in knitting patterns, how to perform the PM stitch, and its significance in knitting projects.
PM, or purl mississippi, is a variation of the standard purl stitch. While the standard purl stitch involves inserting the needle into the front loop of the stitch below, PM requires inserting the needle into the back loop instead. This creates a slightly different texture and appearance in the fabric, which can be useful for creating patterns and textures in your knitting.
When you encounter PM in a knitting pattern, you will typically see it followed by a number, such as PM 2, PM 3, or PM 4. This number indicates the number of purl stitches you should work in the PM manner. For example, if the pattern reads PM 2, you would purl two stitches using the PM technique.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform the PM stitch:
1.
Insert the needle into the back loop of the stitch below, instead of the front loop as you would for a standard purl stitch.
2.
With the yarn in front of the work, wrap it around the needle in the opposite direction of the knit stitch (for right-handers, this means wrapping the yarn clockwise; for left-handers, counterclockwise).
3.
Draw the yarn through the loop on the needle to complete the purl stitch.
By incorporating PM into your knitting, you can create a variety of textures and patterns. For instance, the PM stitch is often used in seed stitch, which is a popular texture for scarves, hats, and other accessories. Additionally, PM can be used to create intricate patterns in more complex knitting projects.
Understanding what PM stands for in knitting patterns is an important skill for any knitter. By familiarizing yourself with this technique and its applications, you can take your knitting to the next level and create stunning projects with unique textures and patterns. So, the next time you see PM in a knitting pattern, remember that it refers to purl mississippi, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering this essential knitting technique.
