KTBL Knit Through the Back Loop
This KTBL Knit Through the Back Loop technique creates one twisted knit stitch. This is accomplished by entering the needle into the stitch in the opposite direction. Patterns include this technique when tightening ribbing stitches or creating decorative ridges and mock cables.
Below, my written instructions with close-up photos help you easily understand this knitting tip. I’ve also included video tutorials for both right and left-handed knitters.
Table of Contents
Knit Through the Back Loop: KTBL
In my demonstration, my working yarn is in the color white to help you best differentiate the old and new stitches.
Watch Video Tutorial
Right-Handed KTBL Instructions
STEP 1: INSERT NEEDLE. With the yarn in back, insert your right needle into the first stitch from right to left. Your right needle is resting behind your left.
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STEP 2: WRAP YARN. Wrap your yarn around the right needle counterclockwise from back to front, so it rests between the two needles.
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STEP 3: KNIT THROUGH. Knit your new stitch through by sliding the right needle down and bring the point forward, bringing the yarn with it.
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STEP 4: DROP OFF OLD STITCH. Bring your new stitch through and drop your old stitch off to knit a twisted stitch on your right needle.
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Left-Handed Knitting Instructions
STEP 1: INSERT NEEDLE. With the yarn in back, insert your left needle into the first stitch from left to right. Your left needle is resting behind your right.
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STEP 2: WRAP YARN. Wrap your yarn around the left needle clockwise from back to front, so it rests between the two needles.
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STEP 3: KNIT THROUGH. Knit your new stitch through by sliding the right needle down and bring the point forward, bringing the yarn with it.
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STEP 4: DROP OFF OLD STITCH. Bring your new stitch through and drop your old stitch off to knit a twisted stitch on your right needle.
KFB Knitting Front and Back
You will use this knitting increase in KFB Knit Front and Back. It uses this back loop technique when creating the second stitch on your needle.
Printable Knitting Instructions
Printable Knitting Instructions
Learn how to Knit Through the Back Loop (KTBL) in 4 easy steps.
Materials
- Yarn - Any Gauge
Tools
- Knitting Needles - Appropriate Size for Yarn
Instructions
4 STEPS TO KNIT THROUGH BACK LOOP
- INSERT NEEDLE: With the yarn in back, insert your right needle into the first stitch from right to left. Your right needle is resting behind your left.
- WRAP YARN: Wrap your yarn around the right needle counterclockwise from back to front, so it rests between the two needles.
- KNIT THROUGH: Knit your new stitch through by sliding the right needle down and bring the point forward, bringing the yarn with it.
- DROP OFF OLD STITCH: Bring your new stitch through and dropping your old stitch off to knit a twisted stitch on your right needle.
Kristen McDonnell
Author • Designer • Teacher
Kristen from StudioKnit LLC produces knitting video lessons and pattern designs from her vibrant production studio on Half Moon Bay’s California coast.
Kristen McDonnell is the author of the highly acclaimed book Knit Stitch: 50 Knit + Purl Patterns featuring vintage and unique designs.