2×2 Rib Stitch Knitting Pattern for Beginners
The 2×2 Rib Stitch is a versatile knitting pattern that lends itself beautifully to a variety of projects, including scarves, hats, and blankets. With an easy sequence of alternating knit and purl stitches, this textured fabric displays a vertical ribbing effect.
Get your written pattern instructions both flat and in the round below, along with knitting chart and video tutorial.
Table of Contents
Knitting Instructions
Cast on any multiple of 4 stitches, depending on how wide or round you want your piece to be.
Whether you are knitting flat on straight needles or in the round on circular needles, the instructions for this rib stitch stay the same. Every row or round is worked the same way, including both the right and wrong sides when knitting flat.
You will simply repeat: Knit 2, Purl 2.
Knitting Flat on Straight Needles
- Row 1 (Right Side): * K2, P2 *
- Row 2 (Wrong Side): * K2, P2 *
Knitting In-the-Round on Circular Needles
- Round 1 (Right Side): * K2, P2 *
- Round 2: * K2, P2 *
Watch Video Tutorial
Knit Stitch Pattern Book
Love easy knitting? Get 50 stitch patterns from my Knit Stitch Pattern Book available in both digital and print formats.
Knitting Techniques
The 2×2 Rib Stitch is an easy combination of simple Knit and Purl Stitches. Find my entire library of Knitting Techniques to help knit up this project.
- How to Cast On Without a Slip Knot or Slip Knot
- Cast On
- K = Knit Stitch
- P = Purl Stitch
- Cast Off
- Weave-in Yarn Ends
Classic Ribbing Texture
This vintage favorite is known for its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned knitters.
- Row Repeat: Knit up the 2×2 Rib Stitch in a simple 2-row repeat.
- Stitch Techniques: A series of easy knits and purls create the ribbed pattern.
- Stretchy: It’s a favorite choice for comfortable elasticity, making it perfect for projects that require a bit of stretch. The brims of hats and cuffs of sweaters often use this pattern.
- Easy-to-Memorize: As we are knitting just two rows with simple knits and purls, this texture is easy to knit on the go, as you can memorize the pattern without needing to refer to the written pattern.
- Reversible: This is a reversible pattern, meaning that both sides of your work, the right and wrong sides, are identical.
- Lays Flat: It is a favorite stitch choice because this pattern easily lays flat.
Cast On and Cast Off Ribbing
When beginning and ending Rib Stitch Patterns, you may wish to do so “in pattern.” This creates the ribbed texture along the edge for knitted items like sleeves and necks, rather than a solid horizontal edge.
Casting On: Alternating the Long-Tail Cast On Knitwise and Cast On Purlwise stitches in pattern to begin your project.
Casting Off: Alternating the Basic Cast Off Knitwise and Cast Off Purlwise gives the finished edge the same texture as your ribbing.
Printable Knitting Instructions
Printable Knitting Pattern
The 2x2 Rib Stitch is a 2-Row repeating pattern of knit and purl techniques. Great stitch to create a simple, stretchy project like the brim edge of a hat.
Materials
- Yarn - Any Gauge
Tools
- Knitting Needles - Appropriate Size for Yarn
- Tapestry Needle
- Scissors
Instructions
KNITTED FLAT ON STRAIGHT NEEDLES:
Cast On: Multiples of 4
- Row 1 (Right Side): * K2, P2 *
- Row 2 (Wrong Side): * K2, P2 *
or
IN THE ROUND ON CIRCULAR NEEDLES:
Cast On: Multiples of 4
- Row 1 (Right Side): * K2, P2 *
- Row 2: * K2, P2 *
Notes
Repeat Rows 1 – 2 until your piece is the length you desire.
Repeat pattern between the * * asterisks
Reversible Knit Stitch Pattern
2-Row Repeat
Does Not Lie Flat
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KNITTING TECHNIQUES
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KNITTING CHART
Kristen McDonnell
Author • Designer • Teacher
Kristen from StudioKnit LLC produces knitting video lessons and pattern designs from her vibrant production studio on Half Moon Bay’s California coast.
Kristen McDonnell is the author of the highly acclaimed book Knit Stitch: 50 Knit + Purl Patterns featuring vintage and unique designs.