Contributing to PURL
How do I submit a proposal to PURL?
You can find our current mood board here. Also on that page is a form to submit a proposal for that issue.
What kinds of articles are you looking for?
We want articles that explore the hows and whys and the what ifs of knitting. Although some content will have tutorials, we instead want to focus on exploring the reasoning behind something that will help readers understand the results of the choices they make in their knitting. Experiments are a great way of testing out various options to see what differences they make. We also love looking into knitting and crafting history and knitting traditions around the world.
Here’s an example of some article descriptions from the Cast On issue:
Cast Ons That Include the First Row: This article will discuss the group of cast ons that include the first row of knitting as part of the cast on (e.g., long tail cast on). The article will explain how that first row is created with the cast on and how that can affect the start of your project. It will also discuss what you should do if the designer doesn’t specify a cast on and any modifications to the first row you might need to make if you choose one of these cast ons.
The Stretchiness of Stretchy Cast Ons: This article will set up an experiment to test the stretch factor of at least four of the stretchy cast ons (e.g., Twisted German/Old Norwegian, Channel Island, Tubular, Estonian/Double Start) for stockinette, garter, 1×1 ribbing, and 2×2 ribbing. It should focus on knitting in the round but can mention knitting flat as well. The yarn used should be something that allows for stretch such as wool or a blend with mostly wool and should be the same across all samples. Provide the results of the stretchiness of each swatch (measure before and after stretching) and draw conclusions for which cast ons would be best based upon the fabric created in the project.
What kinds of patterns are you looking for?
Each issue will have 4-5 patterns, and each pattern will connect to at least one article in the issue. The designer does not need to be the one to write the connecting article, but pattern proposals should consider how the pattern might connect to an article that fits the issue topic.
Because we only have a few patterns in each issue, we want each one to be eye-catching, and it should be aimed at the intermediate+ knitter.
The proposal form doesn’t include space to upload my design sketch. What do I do?
We don’t need to see a design sketch at the proposal stage. Instead, describe the design in words and explain how it might connect to the issue topic.
Do you pay contributors?
Yes, absolutely! We determine compensation based upon the assigned word count and also take into consideration the samples we ask for.
Will I need to take my own photos?
No, we do photography in house. You’ll send swatches and samples to us, and we’ll take photos during the photo shoot for that issue. For tutorial-style photos, you may be asked to send some example photos that we can use as a basis to re-create them during our photo shoot.
What happens to my article once I turn it in?
Each article goes through a full editing process: content editing (for organization and making sure enough explanation is provided), tech editing (to make sure any technical details are accurate), copyediting (check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation, as well as PURL style), and proofreading (checking the laid out version of the issue for errors, including any images).
We’ll contact you at any point in the process if we have questions. You’ll receive and will review the edited version of the article before it gets sent to layout and a PDF version of the article after layout.
What are the rights for my submission?
PURL has first publication rights (the right to edit, adapt, and publish the work for the first time in PURL Magazine). Twelve months after publication, rights for the article or pattern revert back to you.
For patterns, what sizes do I need to include?
PURL is size inclusive, so your pattern should include multiple size options. For garments, at a minimum, full bust measurements should include from 30 inches to 60 inches before ease, with equal increments between sizes (such as 2 inches or 4 inches). We do have a tech editor who can help with grading if needed.
For my pattern sample, what size should I make?
We do not have a specific sample size that you have to make. We will find someone to model the item based upon the size you send. (We use people in the community rather than professional models in our photo shoots and our goal is to have a range of diverse models.)
Will I get my samples (project, swatches, yarns) back?
Yes, after the photo shoot, we return your samples and swatches for articles. For patterns, we let the designer decide if PURL keeps the sample or if it is returned to the designer (see below about yarn support).
Do you provide yarn support?
For articles, we do not provide yarn support (instead, we take that cost into consideration when determining compensation).
For patterns, we do offer full yarn support (we will purchase the yarn and have it sent to you) if we keep the sample. If you want the sample returned, you’ll need to provide the yarn for accessories; however, for garments, we will split the cost of the yarn.
Subscribing to PURL
How do I subscribe to PURL?
You can subscribe by visiting our subscription page. If you are outside the U.S., make sure to click the link for Canadian or International subscriptions under the Choose Your Subscription section.
How many issues of PURL come out each year and when?
PURL comes out 4 times a year, starting August 2026. Issues are released in February (Spring), May (Summer), August (Autumn), and November (Winter).
Is the magazine available in print or digital?
Both. We’ve designed our print version to be a resource for your shelf and to stand up to time and use, but we understand that sometimes you don’t have the space or desire for a print copy. The digital version is available as a PDF file.
What if I want both print and digital versions?
Good news! For individual subscribers of the print version, the digital version is included as a bonus.
Can my guild or library subscribe to the magazine?
Yes! However, guild/library subscriptions are available in print only and do not include the digital copy.
When I subscribe, what issue will I get?
The first issue comes out in August 2026, so if you subscribe now, that’s the first issue you’ll receive in your subscription.
After that, which issue your subscription starts with depends on when you place your order. Typically, your subscription will start with the current issue (allow 2-6 weeks for shipment plus shipping time). Each issue is mailed on the 10th of the publication month, so if you subscribe in the 3 weeks before that date, you’ll receive the new issue (rather than the current issue) as the first issue in your subscription.
Working with PURL
How can I advertise in PURL?
You can find out more information on our Advertising page. Jeannie is our advertising coordinator, and she’s fabulous! She can help you out with any questions you might have about advertising in PURL.
How can I get my yarn/tool/item in PURL?
We use items that we have in our photo shoots, so the best way to have your item included is to send it to us so we have it on hand (though we make no guarantee that it will be used). Contact us for more information, including where to ship.
For yarn, we ask designers for their preference and typically use that suggestion; however, sometimes designers ask us to suggest a yarn. We’re keeping a list of yarn companies to consider in those situations, so please contact us if you’d like to be on that list.
How can I carry PURL in my shop/LYS?
If you’d like to carry PURL in your shop, fill out this form to apply for a wholesale account. If you have questions, please contact us.