How to knit ribbing
Alternate knits and purls within the row, then stack them: knit the knits and purl the purls on every following row.
Updated August 12, 2026·6 min read
Ribbing alternates knit and purl stitches inside the same row, then keeps those columns stacked on every row after. The result pulls in sideways and springs back, which is why it goes on cuffs, hems, and hat brims.
1x1 rib
- 1Cast on an even number of stitches.
- 2Every row: knit one, purl one, repeat to the end.
- 3Move the yarn between the needle tips each time you switch — front for the purl, back for the knit. Never over the top of a needle.
Worked flat over an even count, the columns line up automatically because you end the row on a purl and begin the next on a knit, which sits above the previous purl. In the round, you cast on an even number and repeat k1, p1 forever.
2x2 rib
- 1Cast on a multiple of four stitches.
- 2Every row: knit two, purl two, repeat to the end.
- 3Keep the yarn moving between the tips at each switch, same as 1x1.
Which rib to use
| Rib | Stitch multiple | Behaviour | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1x1 | 2 | Tightest pull-in, least visible column definition | Sock cuffs, fine-gauge necklines |
| 2x2 | 4 | Strong stretch and recovery, clear columns | Sweater hems, hat brims |
| 3x1 | 4 | Modest pull-in, decorative | Panels, scarf edges |
| Twisted 1x1 | 2 | Crisper, firmer, slightly less stretchy | Cuffs that need to stay tight |
| Fisherman / brioche-look | 2 | Very thick, uses far more yarn | Chunky scarves |
For anything that has to grip — a hat that shouldn't ride up, a cuff that shouldn't sag — go 2x2 and drop one to two needle sizes below your body-fabric size. Ribbing that matches the body gauge will relax and stop gripping within a few wears.
If it goes wrong
- There's a loose ladder between the knit and purl columns.
- You're leaving slack when moving the yarn front to back. Give the yarn a small tug after the switch and before working the next stitch. It's the single most common rib complaint and it's entirely a habit fix.
- The rib doesn't pull in at all.
- Either the needle is too big for the yarn or the fibre has no memory. Superwash wool and plant fibres like cotton and bamboo relax and stay relaxed. Non-superwash wool springs back best.
- The columns shift sideways partway up.
- A knit got worked where a purl belonged, usually at a row join in the round. Read the stitches at the start of each round rather than assuming.
- Your cast-on edge is tighter than the rib and won't stretch over a head or foot.
- A standard long-tail cast-on has limited give. Use a stretchy cast-on, or cast on with a needle two sizes larger and switch down for the ribbing.
Binding off ribbing
A standard bind-off removes most of the stretch you just built, which defeats the point on a cuff or a hat brim. Work the bind-off in pattern — knit the knits and purl the purls as you go — and use a needle one or two sizes larger, or switch to a stretchy bind-off.