Mistake Rib
About this stitch
A "mistake" version of 2×2 rib that produces deep, soft columns. Cast on a multiple of 4 + 3.
An elevated alternative to plain ribbing — slightly more time per row, but a noticeably more refined fabric. Use anywhere standard rib appears.
Further reading A primer on swatching Ribbing for accurate gauge.
Stitch chart
Read RS rows right-to-left, WS rows left-to-right. The bottom-right cell is row 1, stitch 1.
knit on RS, purl on WS
•
purl on RS, knit on WS
Row-by-row written instructions
- Cast on a multiple of 4 stitches.
- Row 1 (RS): k2, p2 worked over a 4n+3 multiple
- Row 2 (WS): work knits as knits and purls as purls.
- Repeat for pattern.
Abbreviations used
- k knit
- p purl
- tbl through the back loop
- sl slip purlwise
- wyib with yarn in back
- wyif with yarn in front
Knitter's tips
- Slipped or twisted ribs use a fraction more yarn per inch than plain rib — swatch first.
- Pair with a plain stockinette body for visual contrast at sweater hems.
Editor's pick Why every knitter should keep a swatch journal.
Recommended materials
This stitch is most flattering in Worsted-weight yarn on 7 (4.5 mm) needles, at a working gauge near 24 stitches and 30 rows over four inches in stockinette. Open the yarn weight reference or the needle conversion chart for substitutions.