How To Knit Twisted Rib Stitch (Flat + In The Round)

In this blog post, you will learn how to knit twisted rib stitch (flat + in the round).

This classic knitting technique adds a stylish and textured look to your projects, making it perfect for various projects!

This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating the twisted rib stitch, ensuring you can master this versatile pattern and incorporate it into your next knitting project with ease.

Let’s get started and add some beautiful twists to your knitting repertoire!

Please scroll down to view the written instructions for the free pattern.

Twisted Rib

Twisted ribbing in knitting is a technique that involves knitting through the back loops of knit stitches, creating a twisted appearance.

This twist tightens the stitches, making the ribbing firmer and more resilient.

The result is a distinctive, textured pattern that stands out from regular ribbing.

How it is formed:

Knit Stitches: Worked through the back loops (tbl), twisting them.
Purl Stitches: Usually worked normally, but in some patterns, they might also be worked through the back loops.

Common Uses:

Cuffs of Socks: Twisted ribbing is popular for sock cuffs because it creates a sturdy, elastic edge that maintains its shape over time.
Hems and Edges: It is used in cuffs, waistbands, and hat brims to provide a firm, neat finish.
Design Elements: The twisted columns add an appealing design feature, often used to highlight specific areas of a garment.

Overall, twisted ribbing enhances both the functionality and aesthetic of knitted items by providing a combination of durability and decorative texture.

Knitting Abbreviations

K – Knit
KTBL – Knit one stitch through the back loop
P – Purl
PTBL – Purl one stitch through the back loop
RS – Right side
WS – Wrong side

Twisted Rib Stitch Pattern

Worked Flat (Back and forth on straight needles)

Row 1 (RS): *KTBL, P1; rep to end.
Row 2 (WS): *K1, PTBL; rep to end.

Worked in the Round (With circular needles or double-pointed needles)

Rnd 1: *KTBL, P1; rep to end.

Video Tutorials

Learn how to KTBL here – How To Knit TBL (Through The Back Loop)

Learn how to PTBL here – How To Purl TBL (Through The Back Loop)

What Is A Twisted Rib Pattern?

The twisted rib pattern is a variation of the traditional rib stitch that creates a tighter, more defined ribbing.

In this pattern, knit stitches are worked through the back loop, twisting them and adding extra texture and elasticity to the fabric.

The typical sequence involves alternating knit and purl stitches, just like in standard ribbing, but with the twist occurring in the knit stitches.

This technique is often used in cuffs, hems, and collars to provide a snug, decorative finish to knitted garments and accessories.

What Is A Half Twisted Rib Stitch?

The half-twisted rib stitch is a variation of the rib stitch where only the knit stitches are twisted, achieved by knitting through the back loop (kt), while the purl stitches are worked as usual.

This creates a fabric with more definition and tightness compared to regular ribbing.

In contrast, the full twisted rib stitch involves twisting both the knit and purl stitches, resulting in an even tighter and more textured fabric.

The half twisted rib provides a unique look with added elasticity, making it suitable for edging details in knitting projects.

Is A Twisted Rib Tighter?

A twisted rib is generally tighter than a standard rib pattern.

This increased tightness comes from knitting into the back loop of the knit stitches, which twists the stitches and creates a more compact fabric.

This twist adds extra tension and firmness to the ribbing, making it more elastic and less prone to stretching out over time.

This makes the twisted rib an excellent choice for areas that need to maintain their shape, such as cuffs, hems, and collars in knitted garments.

Is The Twisted Rib Reversible?

The twisted rib stitch doesn’t create a reversible fabric.

While both sides of the fabric may look similar, the distinct twist in the knit stitches that characterizes the pattern is only evident on the front of the work (the right side of the work – rs).

The back side of the fabric (the wrong side of the work – ws) will have a different appearance, lacking the same definition and texture provided by the twisted stitches.

This makes twisted rib a good choice for projects where the front side is intended to be shown, such as cuffs, collars, and borders on garments.

How To Cast On A Twisted Rib?

When casting on for a twisted rib, start with a standard cast-on method like the long-tail cast-on to create an even number of stitches.

On the first row, establish the twisted rib pattern by knitting through the back loop (ktbl) for the knit stitches and purling the purl stitches.

This initial row sets the foundation for the twisted rib pattern, ensuring a neat and consistent edge.

Continue following the twisted rib pattern in subsequent rows to maintain the texture and structure.

Related Post: Knitting Cast On Methods

How To Bind Off A Twisted Rib?

You can bind off twisted rib stitch much like you would for regular ribbing, but there are a few considerations to ensure it matches the pattern’s tension and elasticity.

To maintain the pattern, bind off in pattern by knitting through the back loop (ktbl) for twisted knit stitches and purling for purl stitches.

Keep your tension consistent to avoid a tight or loose edge.

If extra elasticity is needed, consider a stretchy bind-off method.

This approach ensures a neat and elastic edge that complements the twisted rib pattern.

Related Post: Cast Off Knitting Methods

How To Undo A Twisted Rib?

Undoing a twisted rib stitch involves carefully correcting each stitch to its proper orientation.

To do this, first identify the row where the mistake began.

Insert your needle into the stitch below the twisted stitch, lift it onto the needle, and let the twisted stitch drop off.

Then, re-knit the stitch correctly.

Repeat this process for each twisted stitch in the row.

If multiple rows are affected, you might need to unravel row by row until you reach the problematic area, then re-knit correctly from there.

What Supplies Do You Need To Knit The Twisted Rib Stitch?

To knit the twisted rib stitch, you will need several essential supplies.

First, choose a suitable yarn for your project, typically a medium-weight yarn for good definition.

You will also need knitting needles that match your yarn’s gauge; circular needles are ideal if knitting in the round.

Stitch markers can help keep track of your pattern, especially for larger projects.

Additionally, a row counter is useful for tracking your progress, and a tapestry needle will be needed for weaving in ends and finishing your project.

Finally, keep scissors handy for cutting yarn.

Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)

What Can You Knit With The Twisted Rib Stitch?

The twisted rib stitch is ideal for a variety of knitting projects, adding a distinctive texture and elasticity.

It’s perfect for a sweater hem, cuffs, and collars, providing a snug fit and stylish detail.

This stitch also works well in accessories like hats, scarves, and mittens, giving them a firm, stretchy fabric that retains its shape.

Additionally, the twisted rib can be used in socks and headbands, offering both functionality and visual appeal.

Its structured look makes it a versatile choice for enhancing the design and durability of knitted items.

Knitting Lessons

If you are new to knitting and need help with the basics, check out these posts here: Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.

This includes how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic stitches, how to knit the knit stitches, how to knit the purl stitches, and how to knit the rib stitch.

Also included is a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), instructions on knitting the linen stitch, and more.

For an easy-level project like a ribbed hat or a garter stitch scarf check out these beginner-friendly patterns here – Beginner Knitters

And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

Could you share your work with us…

I love seeing your finished projects on social media.

If you enjoyed practicing the twisted rib stitch pattern, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the Handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo,

I’d love to see your work.

You can also find us on Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter.

Happy Knitting!

Free Patterns

Check out the knitting stitch patterns below to find your next project.