english or continental style

I was taught to knit many years ago by a kind woman in my church. She taught me to knit by holding the yarn in the right hand and "throwing" the yarn, commonly known as the English/American style of knitting. Several years back I discovered Elizabeth Zimmerman's book, Knitting Without Tears, and here I read about her preference of holding the yarn in the left hand and "picking" the yarn with the needle, the Continental/German style of knitting. I  easily taught myself how to knit with this technique, and I will consistently switch between these two knitting styles. But I had become totally flummoxed when it came to purling in the continental style. One evening last week through sheer determination akin to the Little Engine That Could, I set myself to not give up until I could purl with the yarn held in my left hand. 

Finally, success was reached and even though my method might not be the conventional way, it works for me. A new project was then deemed necessary so I could practice my new skill. A sweater in Cascade yarn for Charlotte was begun. After the initial garter stitch knitting on the bottom edge, it will enable me to knit row after row of stockinette stitch, giving equal rows for knitting and purling in the Continental technique. 

I am always on the lookout for books to read during the Lenten season that help to keep my heart and mind near to the cross. I found an excellent one this year entitled, Jesus, Keep me Near the Cross. It is edited by Nancy Guthrie and includes compilations written by several Bible teachers and theologians. These meditations will draw you to the passion of Jesus on the cross, and they will enliven you to the power of His resurrection. This book leaves me in tears as I read it; what my Lord did for me on that cross, it will never loose its power!

 (top photo) You must bring the yarn in front just as with any technique of purling. The needle goes under both strands of yarn when picking up the new stitch.

(bottom photo) Now here is what I do, using my finger, index or middle, I push the strand of yarn down, then  use my needle to go back through the loop.