Basic Stitch
Rib Stitch (1x1, 2x2) (k1p1 / k2p2)
Used For
- Cuffs
- Hems
- Collars
- Snug, elastic edges
Alternating columns of knit and purl stitches that pull the fabric in widthwise, creating stretchy vertical ribs.
Instructions
- For 1x1 rib, cast on an even number of stitches.
- Row 1: *Knit 1, purl 1; repeat from * to the end of the row.
- Row 2: Work the stitches as they appear — knit the knits, purl the purls — to keep the columns aligned.
- Repeat Row 2 for the desired length.
- For 2x2 rib, cast on a multiple of 4 stitches and work *knit 2, purl 2; repeat from * instead, again working stitches as they appear on following rows.
Tips & Notes
- Ribbing looks best worked on smaller needles than the rest of the garment, since its elasticity comes from the fabric pulling in on itself.
- Check that your cast-on count matches the rib multiple (even for 1x1, a multiple of 4 for 2x2) before you start.
- If the columns stop lining up, you've knit where you should have purled — check the stitch below the needle before working it.