Knitting: Basic Ribbing

Basic Ribbing in knitting is a stretchy, textured pattern made by alternating knit and purl stitches in the same row. It creates vertical “ribs” of knit stitches separated by purl stitches — which makes the fabric elastic and snug-fitting.

You’ll see ribbing on the edges of sweaters, cuffs, hats, socks, and neckbands because it helps the fabric stretch and spring back into shape.