Slip Stitch Rib Knit Stitch

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Knit Slip Stitch Rib Stitch for Beginners

The Slip Stitch Rib Stitch is a textured knitting pattern that mimics the look of a classic rib but is created using slipped stitches instead of knitting and purling alternately.

This method makes knitting easier while still achieving a stretchy, ribbed effect. It’s an excellent pattern for scarves, cuffs, and other projects that require elasticity without being too complicated.

Skill Level

Beginner-friendly – This stitch is perfect for knitters who are comfortable with the basic knit and purl stitches and are ready to try slipping stitches.

Skills Needed

Before you begin, you should be comfortable with:

• Knit
• Purl
• Slipping stitches purlwise with the yarn held in front. See below.
• Keeping track of the right and wrong sides of your work (See photos below)

Abbreviations

Here are the abbreviations used in the instructions:

• k – Knit
• p – Purl
• sl1 wyif – Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn held in front
• rep – Repeat
• st(s) – Stitch(es)
• RS – Right side of the work
• WS – Wrong side of the work
• *     * - Repeat the instructions between the two asterisks and the number of times indicated with the pattern.

Supplies Needed to Knit a Swatch

To practice the Slip Stitch Rib Stitch, gather these supplies:

• Yarn: Medium-weight (worsted) yarn is great for practicing. A light-colored yarn will help you see your stitches.
• Needles: US Size 8 (5mm) knitting needles (or any size appropriate for your yarn).
• Scissors – For cutting the yarn when finished.
• Tapestry Needle – For weaving in the ends.

Notes

• All instructions are written in US Terms.
• Worked on a multiple of 3 + 2.
• Two-row repeat.
• Classified as a rib stitch and a slip stitch.
• All slip stitches are slipped purlwise, meaning that you insert the needle as if to purl, but do not purl the stitch. Simply slip the stitch onto the right needle.

Is It Reversible?

The right and wrong sides of the fabric are not identical; however, both sides look great. This makes it an excellent choice for scarves and projects where both sides are visible.

How to Knit the Slip Stitch Rib Stitch (Step-by-Step Instructions)

This pattern is worked over a multiple of 3 + 2

Casting On

Cast on multiple of 3 + 2. For the swatch, I cast on 3 x 7 = 21 +2 = 23.

Pattern Instructions

Row 1 (RS):

*P2, P1, repeat from the * to the last two stitches. End withP2.

Row 2 (WS):

*K2, sl 1 purlwise wyif, repeat from the * to the last two stitches. End with K2
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until the fabric reaches your desired length.

Once you have completed enough rows, bind off in pattern. Bind off after row 1. Bind off in pattern means that you knit the knit stitches and slip the slip stitches as they appear on the left needle.

Chart Instructions

What Can You Make With This Stitch

This stitch would make a very nice scarf or cowl. If you need a small project to practice this stitch, consider making a pair of fingerless gloves, working flat and then seamed on one side. I am using it in a easy beanie I'm making now.

Pro Tips

• Keep your tension even: Since some stitches are slipped, do not pull the yarn too tight or loose. Work on the tips of your needles when knitting, purling and slipping to improve tension.
• Watch your yarn placement. Always bring the yarn to the front before slipping stitches to maintain the rib effect.
• Count your stitches regularly: Slipping stitches can sometimes make counting tricky. Check your work periodically to ensure you maintain the correct number of stitches.
• Practice on a swatch before using it in a project: This will help you get comfortable with the technique before incorporating it into a larger piece.

Final Thoughts

The Slip Stitch Rib Stitch is an easy yet effective way to create a stretchy, textured fabric without constantly switching between knits and purls. It's perfect for beginners who want to add some variety to their knitting without taking on an overly complex pattern.
Now that you know how to knit the Slip Stitch Rib Stitch try incorporating it into your next scarf, hat, or sweater cuffs! Happy knitting!

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a small  commission.

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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