Mistake Rib Stitch for Beginners
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The mistake rib stitch is a fantastic beginner stitch made up entirely of knits and purls. The stitch pattern is just a one row repeat, making it a cinch to memorise. It’s the perfect lazy stitch for relaxed knitting.
If you can knit and purl, then this stitch will be a breeze. The stitch pattern is nearly identical to 2×2 ribbing. But unlike regular ribbing, the mistake rib stitch produces a squishy, lofty fabric with deep valleys and fluffy peaks. It’s one of my favourite stitches because, despite looking complicated, it’s deceptively easy to knit!
Mistake Rib Stitch Flat:
Cast on a multiple of 4+3 (ie. start with a multiple of four, like 4, 8, 12, 16. Then add three to it and cast on 7, 11, 15, 19…)
Row 1: *knit 2, purl 2; repeat from * to the last 3 stitches, knit 2, purl 1
Repeat Row 1 until knitting measures the length you like.
Mistake Rib Stitch in the Round:
Cast on a multiple of 4 (ie. 4, 8, 12, 16…)
Round 1: *knit 2, purl 2; repeat from * to the end of the round
Round 2: purl 1, *knit 2, purl 2; repeat from * to last 3 stitches, knit 2, purl 1
Repeat rounds 1-2 until knitting measures the length you like.
Mistake Rib Stitch Infinity Scarf Video Tutorial:
Ready for a challenge? The mistake rib stitch is perfect for plushy scarves and cowls. In this video tutorial, I’ll show you how to knit an infinity scarf step-by-step. I use super bulky yarn for an expedited knit – great for holiday knitting!
In the video, you’ll notice that the stitch pattern for the scarf is slightly different than the stitch pattern above. That’s because I’ve included selvedge stitches to give the scarf a clean edge. That’s why both the cast on stitches and the instructions are a bit different.
If you’re interested in knitting the mistake rib infinity scarf, check out the pattern page to download the pattern PDF and more details.
Great tutorial! Very clear and fun to watch🤗
Mistake rib is beautiful, infinity scarf looks fun and super soft.
Is there a way to knit the mistake rib pattern so the ridges are symmetrical?
Thanks for the clear instructions. I’m making a shawl with bulky yarn, it’s an easy pattern to remember (every row the same) and great for watching TV. It’s so squishy and fun.