Rib Knit
A stretchy, elastic knit with vertical ridges — used for cuffs, collars and close-fitting tops.
Also known as: 1x1 rib, 2x2 rib, Ribbing
beginner
Rib knit alternates face and reverse wales to create vertical ribs, giving strong widthwise stretch and excellent recovery, which makes it the standard for cuffs, waistbands and neckbands.
What it is
Rib knit is a double-bed weft knit that alternates knit and purl wales across the fabric, producing raised vertical ribs on both faces. The alternating loops let the fabric contract, giving high crosswise stretch and strong elastic recovery — a 1x1 rib can stretch to roughly twice its width and spring back. Notation like 1x1 or 2x2 describes how many face and reverse wales alternate. It looks similar on both sides and lies flat without curling.
Because of its grip and recovery, rib is the go-to for cuffs, collars, neckbands and waistbands on jersey and fleece garments, and for close-fitting ribbed tops and beanies. Wider ribs (2x2, 3x3) give a bolder texture; adding elastane boosts recovery further. Rib is heavier per area than single jersey because it packs more loops into the same width.
How to apply it
Use rib knit for cuffs, collars and waistbands that must stretch over hands or hips and recover, or as a stretchy, textured body fabric for fitted tops.
Related entries
Sources & further reading
- Knitting Technology — David J. Spencer (book)