Hint: Sometimes It Means Please Skedaddle 🧶
Decoding knitting abbreviations doesn’t need to overwhelm like cracking the Rosetta Stone. You’ve already mastered “k.” The very next abbreviation you’ll meet is “p,” and once you learn it, whole new textures and possibilities open up.
So, what does “p” mean in knitting? Let’s find out.
The Real Meaning of “p” in Knitting
In a knitting pattern, p = purl stitch.
If you see “p3,” that means “purl three stitches.” If you see “p to end,” that means “purl every stitch across the row.”
The purl stitch is the companion to the knit stitch: you’ll use it just as often, and together, knit and purl are the foundation of almost every pattern you’ll ever try.
👉 Want to practice the purl stitch step by step? Learn to make a purl stitch in this free lesson.
The Twist: p = Please Skedaddle
Of course, knitters know there’s a second meaning to “p.”
p = please skedaddle.
Why? Because when you’re counting stitches, nothing throws you off faster than someone talking to you. That’s when you whisper, “please skedaddle, I’m counting.” A true knitter’s plea.
Why “p” Matters for Beginners
Once you know how to purl, you unlock the ability to create textures and patterns that go beyond the basics. Stockinette, ribbing, seed stitch: all of these rely on purl stitches.
✨ Ready to practice? Try these beginner-friendly patterns that mix knits and purls:
🛁 Classic Seed Stitch Washcloth
🧶 Knitting Pattern Library: Explore more patterns
These projects use a combination of knit and purl stitches, making them perfect for building confidence.
Find More Abbreviations
Visit the Knitting Abbreviations Main Page to see the whole series.
What’s Next?
Now that you know p = purl stitch (and sometimes please skedaddle), you’re ready to keep exploring the knitting shorthand. Next up: CO = cast on, the very beginning of every project.
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