How To Knit the Mistake Rib Pattern

The mistake rib pattern is a knitting pattern that creates a dynamic design that is similar to ribbing, and is great for edging. The mistake rib pattern is relatively simple - it deals with knit and purl stitches only. The directions below will explain how it works - however, basic knitting knowledge is necessary.

Step 1  

For the sake of example, let us start by presuming that we are knitting a simple scarf. Therefore the first step is to choose the number of cast on stitches. The mistake rib pattern requires the number of cast on stitches to be a multiple of 4, plus an extra 3 stitches.

Step 2  

Cast on the number, for example, 23 st.

Step 3  

Slip the first stitch knitwise, then knit one.

Step 4  

After these two initial stitches, you will follow this pattern: purl 2, knit 2 (p2,k2) until you have three stitches left on your needle.

Step 5  

Knit the first two stitches.

Step 6  

Purl the last single stitch.

Step 7  

Repeat exactly until the desired length is met. If this pattern seems to confuse you, and you find yourself saying "isn't that just a ribbing pattern?", read the Tips below.

Tips

• If you look at the mistake rib pattern in vertical columns, this is what it looks like: 1 column of knit, 1 column of knit and purl (every other), 1 column of purl, 1 column of knit and purl, and repeat. 
• Because of the extra stitch on the end, what would have been a ribstitch is thrown off, hence the name.
• A great thing about this pattern is that it is the same on both sides, and a great deal flatter than the ribstitch.

Things You'll Need

• Two straight knitting needles, sized appropriately for chosen yarn.
• Yarn.
• Basic knitting knowledge: Knit stitch, purl stitch, slip stitch knitwise.