How to Knit Front & Back (Kf&b)

Kf&b (Knit front & back) - sometimes written as k1f&b - is a classic knitting increase that creates a purl-like bump to the left of your knit stitch. It can be used to make an interesting and subtle design details, and it’s also great for garter stitch, bobbles, buttonholes, and more.

Here we'll show you how to work kf&b both Continental (picking) and English (throwing) style.

How to...

1

Continental / Picking Style

A

Knit 1 stitch, but do not slip the original stitch off the left needle. 

B

Rotate right needle the back of your work. Knit 1 through the back loop of the same stitch you previously knit into.

C

Slip original stitch off the left needle. 

2

English / Throwing Style

A

Knit 1 stitch, but do not slip the original stitch off the left needle.

B

Rotate right needle the back of your work. Knit 1 through the back loop of the same stitch you previously knit into.

C

Slip original stitch off the left needle. 

Patterns that Use Kf&b

1

Baby Bear

Baby Bear is a snuggly baby onesie with a sewn-in diagonal snap closure. Kf&b is used to make a smooth bias bind-off at the crotch.

Baby Bear pattern page

Baby Bear On Demand Class

2

Veronika

Veronika is a light and swingy “swoncho” with fitted ribbed cuffs. Knit from the bottom up, the front and back curves are created with short row shaping. Kf&b is used in the neckline shaping.

Veronika pattern page

3

Toni

Toni is a classic grandpa cardigan with pockets, an incorporated button band, and customization options galore. Kf&b is used in the buttonholes.

Toni pattern page

4

Toasty Topper

Toasty Topper is a helmet-style hat with warming ear flaps and a whimsical tassel. Knit top-down, with sizes for the whole family. Kf&b is used for the shaping.

Toasty Topper pattern page

5

Milli Kerchief

The Milli Kerchief has curved ties and includes stockinette, stripe, and bobble options. Knit it with any yarn, at any gauge, to any size - and perfectly use up all your yarn thanks to the formulaic instructions. Kf&b is used for the bobble version.

Milli Kerchief pattern page

6

Olivia

Olivia is the perfect thrown-on-over-anything transitional weather piece - not quite a vest, not quite a sweater. You can knit it with either the YO or bobble pattern in the center panel - kf&b is used for the bobble version.

Olivia pattern page

7

Beatriz

Beatriz is a roomy jacket-like cardigan with drop shoulders. Kf&b is used for the cable increases on the back shoulders and for the buttonholes.

Beatriz pattern page

Beatriz On Demand Class

8

Andie

Andie is a classic pullover with plenty of added personality: dramatic drop shoulders, full sleeves, and an oversized fit. Kf&b is used for the cable increases on the back shoulders.

Andie pattern page

9

Baby Coco

Baby Coco is a baby cardigan with two options: Version A is a grandpa cardigan with stockinette body, front pockets, and shawl collar; Version B has a simple lace panel below the yoke. Kf&b is used in the Version A pocket linings and buttonholes.

Baby Coco pattern page

Baby Coco On Demand Class

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