Hello friends! Welcome to the next installment of Stitch Spotlight. Today we will be talking about rib stitches—1×1 and 2×2.
Rib stitch is very useful to know as it creates fabric that is durable and cozy, yet with an incredible amount of stretch. It is commonly used for cuffs or edges of garments, mittens, socks, hats…the list goes on and on! I personally like to use 1×1 rib stitch for the cuffs on my hats, and 2×2 rib for sock cuffs.
Rib stitch is very easy to learn and is integral for creating a well-fitting garment. A sweater with a neck that is too tight or socks with cuffs that are too loose are garments that are not functional. So, by using stitches that hold their shape while providing considerable stretch, we can create handknits that will fit and last.
To knit a 1×1 stitch, all you need to know is how to cast on, knit and purl.
Row 1: *K1, p1,* rep from * to end.
Repeat until desired length is met.
Now you can knit a 1×1 rib hat!
To knit a 2×2 rib stitch, working flat, we will work in multiples of 4 + 2 stitches:
Row 1: K2, *p2, k2* repeat from * to * until the end of the row
Row 2: P2, *k2, p2,* repeat from * to * until the end of the row
Repeat until desired length is met
OR we can work in the round in multiples of 4 stitches:
All rounds: *K2, p2,* repeat from * to * until the end of the round
Happy Knitting!
Which rib stitch is your favorite? Let us know below in the comments!
- Knit Stitch Spotlight: Rib Stitch - October 12, 2021
- Knit Stitch Spotlight: Stockinette Stitch - October 11, 2021
- Essential Tools for Knitting - June 5, 2021
