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.  

There are many ways to make this stitch, but I think this one is the easiest.

slip stitch rib pattern worked in blue yarn and still on the needles

Skill Level

Skill level easy per the Craft Yarn Council

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

Is The Slip Stitch Rib Reversible?

Yes! The Slip Stitch Rib Stitch is a reversible pattern, but not identical.  This means that it looks great on both sides, making it an excellent choice for scarves and projects where both sides are visible.

Right side showing of the slip stitch rib patternRight Side
Wrong side showing of the slip stitch rib knit patternWrong Side

Abbreviations

Here are the abbreviations used in the instructions:
k – Knit
p – Purl
sl1 wyib – Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in back
rep – Repeat

*  *  Repeat the instructions between the asterisks for the number of times indicated.
st(s) – Stitch(es)
RS – Right side of the work
WS – Wrong side of the work

Skills Needed

Before you begin, you should be comfortable with:

How to Slip Stitches Purlwise With Yarn in Back (sl1 wyib)

How to slip one purlwise with yarn held in backWith the yarn held in the back, insert the right needle into the stitch on the left needle as if to purl, but instead of working a purl stitch, slip it off and onto the right needle.

This may seem complicated at first, but it really is not.  Let's break it down.

What are Slipped Stitches?

Slipped stitches are created by inserting the right needle into the next stitch on the left needle. Then, without knitting or purling the stitch, slip it onto the right needle.

There are two ways to slip a stitch:

Knitwise: Insert the right needle into the stitch as if you were going to knit it, but just slip it onto the right needle without working it.

Purlwise: Insert the right needle into the stitch on the left needle as if you were going to purl. Without working it, slip it off and onto the right needle.

Which Method do you use

The pattern should tell you, but if not, assume you slip the stitch purlwise unless you are making a decrease or a decorative stitch.

With Yarn in Front or Back (wyif, wyib)

You can either hold the yarn in the front as you would do when making a purl stitch. You can also hold it in the back as if you were making a knit stitch.

The pattern will tell you. Each method creates a different look, so it is important that you hold the yarn in the correct location.

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 clearly.
  • 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 use US English.
  • The pattern is worked over a stitch multiple of 3 + 2.
  • It has a two-row repeat.
  • The fabric tends to curl a little, so blocking is recommended.

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

For the swatch shown, I cast on 23 stitches (7 x 3) + 2 = 23.

Row 1 (RS): *P2, sl1 wyib, rep from * across the row.  End with P2.
Row 2 (WS): K2, *P2, k2* across the row.

Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until the fabric reaches your desired length.

Once you have reached your desired length, bind off in pattern, which means knitting the knits and slipping the stitches as they appear. 

Instructions in Chart Form

The slip stitch rib pattern shown in a knitting chart form

Pro Tips

  • Watch your yarn placement: For this rib, 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're maintaining 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 the constant 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!

Slip Stitch Rib:  Pin Now for Future Reference

Slip stitch rib stitch pattern tutorial in pin imageSlip Stitch Rib: Pin Now, Knit Later

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About Janice

Hi, I’m Janice, the voice behind Smart-Knit-Crocheting. I love to knit and crochet and even more, I love teaching others what I know.

Though I learned to knit and crochet as a child, I didn’t get serious about these amazing hobbies until I retired. I’m a certified knit and crochet instructor through the Craft Yarn Council and am working on becoming a Master Hand Knitter through The Knitting Guild Association.

I’m currently living with my husband of over 50 years and our 6 Shih Tzu dogs.

I love hearing from you, so please drop me a line and let me know what you’re working on, whether you love knitting or crocheting more, and if you have any questions. Please visit my about me page for more information.


Happy Crocheting