Knit ribbing is so much more than just the basic K2 P2. This month’s Stitchopedia explores three unusual ribbings! We have:
- Eyes on You Ribbing
- Slip Stitch Waffle Rib (this page)
- Waffle Stitch Ribbing
Yarn Info
I used Berroco Vintage Sock in Fondant 12110 (light pink). I had forgotten how much I like the Vintage Line! The hand is very soft, I don’t feel that plasticy fabric that doesn’t breathe, it’s machine-washable and there are currently 50 colors available.
I’d gladly consider this yarn for a gifted pair of socks – it’s nice and soft and there’s no worry about them “mistakenly” washing it by machine.
Why is the Slip Stitch Waffle Rib Special?
- One full repeat is 11 rows long. That’s much larger than most ribs.
- The Knit stitches that are in ribbing are slipped every other round. This makes the knit stitches appear larger.
- Given that the knit stitches are slipped, it’s an easier ribbing to execute without being overly concerned of that tell-tale loose knit stitch when transitioning to a purl. Since slipped stitches are naturally a bit more taut, they take care of looseness because there just isn’t as much yarn!
- There are 3 rounds that are just knit. But, if you don’t like it, you could just work rounds 2 and 3.
Written Instructions
Rnd 1: Knit. (4 sts)
Rnd 2: Sl, p3.
Rnd 3: K1, p3.
Rnds 4 – 9: Repeat rounds 2 – 3.
Rnd 10: Sl, k3.
Rnd 11: Knit.
Slip Stitch Waffle Rib Chart
Once You’re Done
Like most ribs, I suggest you bind off in pattern.
If I was just working a single repeat, I’d consider stopping after Round 9. This is definitely an aesthetic decision, but I wouldn’t want to end it with 2 all-knit rounds. I think it would look like a mistake.
If you’re working a cuff-down sock with the ribbing in a CC and the body is just stockinette, I don’t think your eye would pick up anything “wrong”.
Of course, I do think that in this case, the 2 all-knit rounds are superfluous. But, there wouldn’t be any extra knitting. It’s more of a philosophical question than anything. </knitting geekery>
About the Instructor: Jody Richards
Jody is the founder and lead editor of Knotions. She loves poring over stitch dictionaries and trying out new stitches.
She’s also on a mission to get everyone to embrace the blocking. And, to avoid using garter stitch edges in knit swatches made for gauge.
And while she likes all things crafting (well ok, except that one thing), yarn crafts are her true love (and she has the stash to prove it).
About Jill Bickers, our Resident Knitting Nerd
Jill Bickers is a full fledged knitting nerd, who can’t seem to stop buying books on fiber history in general and knitting history in particular. Okay, let’s be honest. She can’t seem to stop buying books, period. She is particularly obsessed with socks , lace, and cables.
Her designs can be found on Ravelry, as well as Knotions.
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