How To Knit Slip Stitch Rib (Tutorial)

In this tutorial, you will learn how to knit slip stitch rib, a simple textured stitch pattern that creates a structured, ribbed fabric.

Slip stitch rib is a great stitch to use when you want a fabric with extra texture and durability.

The slipped stitches create vertical lines that give the knitting a modern look while also helping the fabric hold its shape.

This stitch pattern works well for many knitting projects, including bags, scarves, and textured accessories.

Before You Get Started

Slip stitch rib is created by combining knit, purl, and slipped stitches in a repeating pattern.
When you slip stitches in knitting, you simply move the stitch from the left needle to the right needle without knitting or purling it.
In this pattern, the stitch is slipped with the yarn held in the back of the work, which creates the textured rib effect.
This stitch pattern is suitable for advanced beginners, as it only requires basic knitting skills.

Materials

To practice this stitch pattern, you will need:

Any yarn weight
Knitting needles suitable for your yarn
Scissors
Tapestry needle (optional)

Because this is a stitch tutorial, you can use any yarn and needle size to make a practice swatch.

Abbreviations

CO – Cast on
Cont – Continue
K – Knit
Patt – Pattern
P – Purl
Sl 1 WYIB – Slip one stitch with the yarn in the back
St(s) – Stitch(es)
Rep – Repeat
RS – Right side
WS – Wrong side

Pattern Instructions

Please note: Worked over a multiple of 3 stitches, plus 2 extra stitches; 3+2 st (for example, 3×5=15+2=17sts.

Worked flat knitting back and forth on two needles:

Cast on 17 sts.

Row 1 (RS): *P2, Sl 1 WYIB* – Rep from * to the end of the row, ending with P2.
Row 2 (WS): K2, *P1, K2* – Rep from * to * to the end of the row.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 until your sample reaches the desired length.

Video Tutorial

If you prefer to learn visually, you can watch the video tutorial below to see exactly how the slip stitch rib is worked.

Pattern Using This Stitch

If you would like to use this stitch pattern in a project, you can try the Slip Stitch Rib Project Bag Knitting Pattern.

This textured bag uses slip stitch rib to create a sturdy fabric that works well for everyday use or carrying knitting supplies.

FAQ

What Is The Slip Stitch Rib Stitch?

The slip stitch rib stitch is a textured variation of classic ribbing that adds depth and interest to your knitting.

Combining knit, purl, and slip stitches creates a raised ribbed fabric that works beautifully for scarves, hats, sweaters, and other textured projects.

Is slip stitch rib beginner-friendly?

Yes. This stitch pattern is suitable for advanced beginners who are comfortable with knit and purl stitches.

What does “slip stitch with yarn in back” mean?

It means you move the stitch from the left needle to the right needle without knitting it, while keeping the yarn held at the back of the work.

What can I make with slip stitch rib?

This stitch works well for many projects, including:

bags and totes
scarves and cowls
sweaters and cardigans
textured accessories

Why are slip stitches used in knitting?

Slip stitches add texture, structure, and durability to knitted fabric.

They are often used in patterns where a stronger or more decorative surface is desired.

Is the slip stitch rib a reversible pattern?

The slip stitch rib stitch is not traditionally reversible in the strictest sense, as the texture on the front of the work differs from that on the wrong side.

On the right side, the slip stitches create raised ribs, while the wrong side exhibits a flatter surface with subtle indentations where the slipped stitches occurred.

Share Your Make

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If you enjoyed this tutorial, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, tag me @handylittleme.

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Happy Knitting!

More Patterns

More Rib Stitches

Check out these posts to try out new stitches.

Bag Knitting Patterns

For more knitting time, check out these bag knitting patterns.