1×1 rib: How to Knit It (Flat & in the Round)

#3 of 10 · Updated November 2026 · The Yarn Math

1×1 rib, drawn as it looks on the right side of the fabric.

1×1 rib alternates one knit and one purl stitch, so the knit columns stack on top of each other. The fabric pulls in and stretches a lot widthwise, which is why it is used wherever a garment needs to hug: cuffs, hems and brims.

Stitch count	Multiple of 2
Level	Beginner
Curls at the edges	No
Reversible	Yes
Yarn use	About 15% more than stockinette
Good for	Cuffs, hems, hat brims, collars and neckbands.

How to knit 1×1 rib flat

Every row: *k1, p1; repeat from * to end.

How to knit 1×1 rib in the round

Every round: *k1, p1; repeat from * to end.

Chart

Read right-side rows (odd numbers) from right to left and wrong-side rows from left to right. Blank square: knit on the right side, purl on the wrong side. Dot: purl on the right side, knit on the wrong side.

Tips

Work ribbing on needles 1–2 sizes smaller than the body for a firmer edge.
On the wrong side, knit the stitches that look like purl bumps and purl the ones that look like Vs.
Bind off loosely in pattern so the edge keeps its stretch.

Cast on

How many stitches to cast on

Stitches per 4 in / 10 cm Width wanted Unit

Measure your gauge on a swatch knitted in this stitch: textured stitches often give a different gauge from stockinette.

Cast on

Questions

Why does my 1×1 rib look like seed stitch?

The columns have been shifted: on the second row you worked a knit over a knit. Remember to knit the stitches that face you as knits and purl the purls.

Planning a project in 1×1 rib? The yarn calculator estimates how much yarn you need; pick "Textured or ribbed" as the stitch pattern.

← Stockinette stitch 2×2 rib →

Top 10 knitting stitches

1Garter stitchKnit every row. Squishy ridges that lie flat.2Stockinette stitchKnit one row, purl one row. The smooth V fabric.31×1 ribKnit 1, purl 1 in columns. Stretchy and neat.42×2 ribKnit 2, purl 2. Bolder columns, still stretchy.5Seed stitchKnits over purls in a checkerboard of tiny bumps.6Moss stitchSeed stitch stretched to two rows. Soft, woven texture.7Box stitchLittle 2×2 squares of knit and purl.8Basketweave stitchBlocks of knit and purl that look woven.9Simple cableA 6-stitch rope cable on a purl background.10Eyelet laceRows of small holes made with yarn overs.