How To Knit 1 x 1 Rib Stitch

Looking to add a stretchy, textured edge to your next knitting project? This guide will show you step-by-step how to knit the 1×1 rib stitch, troubleshoot common mistakes, and use it creatively in your designs. Let’s dive into this essential stitch pattern!

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1 x 1 Rib Stitch

Knitting 1 x 1 rib stitch is a foundational stitch that every knitter should learn. As you can see in the video, 1 x 1 ribbing stitch creates a stretchy fabric that with vertical ridges that is the same on both sides of the fabric. When knitting this stitch, remember to knit your knits and purl your purls. All your knit stitches will create a line of v’s on your work and the purls will create a line of bumps. This is what creates the ribbing effect. If you see a V, you knit that stitch. If you see a bump, you will purl.

This 1×1 rib stitch swatch was knit using Bernat Super Value in the colourway Grey Ragg on size 6* Addi click knitting needles. I cast on 25 stitches using the long tail cast on.
*I am a loose knitter so I size down. The recommended knitting needles for this yarn is 5.0mm US Size 8.

Follow these steps to create this timeless stitch pattern:

How to Knit 1 x 1 Rib Stitch Flat

1×1 Rib stitch is achieved by alternating between knitting and purling. This created a stretchy fabric with ribs running vertically on the fabric. When knitting this stitch, remember to knit your knits and purl your purls.

Step 1: Cast On

Cast on your desired number of stitches. I recommend casting on a multiple of 2 + 1. This will create fabric with knit stitches at the beginning and end of your row. Use a stretchy cast-on method like the long-tail cast-on for an even cast on edge.

example: 25 total stitches is 24 (a multiple of 2) plus 1 edge stitch.

Step 2: Knit One, Purl One

The main repeat of 1 x 1 rib is knit one stich, purl one stitch. At the end of the row you will have one extra stitch – knit this stitch. Turn your work and repeat.

Step 3: Purl One, Knit One

On the wrong side of your work, the pattern will be opposite. Your repeat is *purl one, knit one*.

Step 3: Repeat

Continue alternating between knit one and purl one the next until your project reaches the desired length.

**If you chose to cast on a multiple of 2 without the edge stitch, you will always start with a knit stitch. Row 1 will be *knit one, purl one* and row 2 will be *knit one, purl one*. Remember you will knit your knit stitches from the previous row, and purl the purl stitches from the previous row.

How to Knit 1×1 Rib Stitch In The Round

Knitting 1×1 rib stitch in the round is just as easy as working it flat!

Step 1: Cast On

Start by casting on the desired number of stitches, in a multiple of 2, for your project. For beginners, the long-tail cast-on method is a great choice as it creates a neat, stretchy edge. Place a stitch market to indicate your beginning of round.

Step 2: Knit One, Purl One

1×1 rib stitch in the round is created by knitting one stitch and purling one stitch. Just keep knitting until you this pattern have reached your desired length.

Step 3: Bind Off

Once your project reaches the desired length, it’s time to bind off. To perform a basic bind off: knit the first stitch, purl the second, then pass the first stitch over the second and off the needle. Continue in sequence. Knit the next stitch and repeat until only one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a small tail, and pull it through the final stitch to secure.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

While 1×1 rib stitch is straightforward once you get the hang of it, small mistakes can happen, especially when transitioning between knit and purl stitches. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Losing Track of the Knit-Purl Pattern

It’s easy to accidentally knit where you should purl or purl where you should knit, especially if you’re interrupted.

• Fix: Look at your stitches: knit stitches form “v” shapes, while purl stitches create small bumps. Ensure you’re knitting into the knit stitches and purling into the purl stitches to maintain the ribbing pattern.

Twisted Stitches

If your stitches look tight or uneven, you may be wrapping the yarn incorrectly or inserting the needle into the wrong part of the stitch.

• Fix: Always wrap the yarn counterclockwise around the needle and ensure you’re inserting the needle through the front of the loop unless otherwise specified.

Uneven Tension

Switching between knits and purls can sometimes cause uneven tension, leading to a lumpy or inconsistent appearance. This is common, especially for beginners. Practice and time will help you improve.

• Fix: Practice maintaining an even grip on your yarn. If your purl stitches are looser, try pulling the working yarn slightly tighter when purling.

Missing a Stitch Transition

Forgetting to switch between knit and purl can lead to unintended sections of stockinette stitch or garter stitch.

• Fix: If you catch the mistake quickly, unpick (“tink”) back to the error and correct it. To avoid this, periodically check your work to ensure the ribbing pattern is consistent. If you catch it later, it is possible to drop your stitches down the row to the wrong stitch and then use a crochet hook to correct the stitch and re-do the stitches in the row.

Edges That Don’t Look Neat

If the edges of your ribbing seem messy, it may be due to inconsistent tension or forgetting to maintain the pattern at the beginning and end of rows.

• Fix: Pay extra attention to your edge stitches. For cleaner edges, you can slip the first stitch of each row purlwise (without knitting it).

By keeping an eye on your work and understanding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to troubleshoot issues and keep your 1×1 rib stitch looking neat, stretchy, and professional!

Benefits of 1 x 1 Rib Stitch

The 1×1 rib stitch is a versatile and functional knitting technique that offers many advantages, making it a favorite among knitters for a variety of projects.

Here are the key benefits of this classic stitch pattern:

Exceptional Stretch and Elasticity

• 1×1 rib stitch is highly stretchy, allowing it to conform to different shapes and sizes. This makes it ideal for snug-fitting items like cuffs, hats, collars, and hems.
• Its elasticity ensures a comfortable fit without losing its shape over time.

Neat and Polished Appearance

• The alternating knit and purl stitches create clean, vertical ridges that add a professional, polished look to your projects.
• The symmetry of 1×1 rib stitch makes it an excellent choice for projects where both form and function matter.

Versatility in Design

• This stitch can be used on its own for a stretchy, ribbed fabric or combined with other stitch patterns to create texture and structure.
• It works well for both small details (like edging) and larger sections of fabric.

Reversible Fabric

• 1×1 rib stitch looks the same on both sides, making it a fantastic choice for reversible projects like scarves and cowls.

Beginner-Friendly

• While it requires switching between knits and purls, the pattern is repetitive and easy to memorize, making it approachable for knitters of all skill levels.
• Practicing 1×1 rib stitch helps beginners build confidence and improve their tension when transitioning between stitches.

Functional for All Yarn Types

• This stitch complements a wide variety of yarns, from lightweight cottons to bulky wools.
• Its texture can highlight solid colors, variegated yarns, or even hand-dyed skeins.

Practical for Edges and Trim

• 1×1 rib stitch prevents curling, making it an excellent border for stockinette projects.
• It provides structure and elasticity to garments, ensuring the edges don’t sag or roll.

Whether you’re designing a cozy winter hat or adding structure to a sweater hem, the 1×1 rib stitch is a reliable, stylish choice that enhances both the form and function of your knitting.