Purling is a knitting technique that creates a textured stitch by working the yarn in a specific way. In this method, the yarn is held in front of the work, and the needle is inserted into the stitch from the back to the front. This results in a stitch that appears to have a bump on the surface, contrasting with the smooth appearance of a knit stitch. Purling is essential for creating various patterns and designs in knitting, such as ribbing and seed stitch. It is often used in combination with the knit stitch to produce different textures and shapes in knitted fabrics, making it a fundamental skill for knitters.