What is twisted ribbing?

As the name suggests, twisted ribbing is a method of knitting ribbing where you intentionally twist the stitches. If you only twist the knit stitches, it is technically 'half-twisted ribbing' and that is what I tend to do. It creates a nice clean set of knit stitch columns that really pop off the purl background.

When to use it

This technique is always optional. The only difference between standard and twisted ribbing is aesthetic, as twisted often looks a bit cleaner and tighter (no loose knit columns), although it tends to be somewhat less stretchy.

I personally have a hard time making this work when I'm knitting flat, so it's a bit better for projects that are knit in the round, where you are always knitting on the 'right side', rather than trying to twist stitches on the 'wrong side'.

Doodle patterns that use this technique

I generally prefer twisted ribbing compared to standard, so many of the patterns that have a rib edge (Standard Cowl, Scarf, Beanie, etc.) suggest twisted ribbing.

To watch my quick video reel, see How to Knit Twisted Ribbing.

 

INSTRUCTIONS

CAST-ON 

Using your preferred cast-on method, cast on however many stitches you need. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist your knitting.

SET-UP ROUND

Work the first round as *knit 1 through the back loop, purl 1* repeat to end of round.

SUBSEQUENT ROUNDS

Continue to work in 1x1 ribbing, but knit all knit sts through the back loop, purl as usual.

BONUS TECHNIQUE: "Semi-twisted" ribbing

Did you know that you can expand this method of ribbing for wider repeats than 1x1!

If you want to maintain some of the "chunky" look of 2x2 ribbing (but want a slightly cleaner look than the standard way), try twisting the first knit stitch only (*k1tbl, k 1, p 2, repeat across round). [middle row on lighter purple sample in photo]

If you want very tight knit columns, twist all of the knit stitches (*k 2 sts tbl, p 2, repeat across round). [top row on lighter purple sample in photo]

That's it! Get ready to receive a lot of compliments on how good your ribbing looks!

Happy Doodling!

Blog co-written by Jamie Lomax and Grey Lundy. Yarn used is from Moonglow Yarn Co.