How to knit the Double Mock Ribbing Stitch

The Double Mock Ribbing Stitch is a fun and versatile pattern, but what makes it a standout for me is the wrong side. Pictured above is the reverse of the stitch, and I absolutely love the texture and look it creates. While the right side gives a classic ribbed feel, the wrong side has a rich, woven appearance that adds depth to any project. This stitch is simple to work, yet full of character, perfect for scarves, cowls, and anywhere you want beautiful texture. This is how I like to knit the Double Mock Ribbing Stitch, I use a slipped stitch edge for a cleaner, more polished border, as shown in the photo below. These instructions include how to create this type of edge so you can get that same neat finish in your projects.  

k =  knit

p = purl

sl = slip

sts = stitches

rep = repeat

Terms & Abbreviations explained at end of post.

Cast on a multiple of 4 stitches.

I prefer to knit with a slipped stitch at the beginning, and a knit stitch at the end, as I like the way the edges look.

Pattern is two rows, repeated until desired length is reached.

Row 1 (RS): sl1 knitwise with yarn in back, k2, *p2, k2; rep from * to last st, k1.

Row 2: sl1 knitwise with yarn in back, p2, *keeping yarn in front of work, sl2, p2; rep from * to last st, k1.

Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until your desired length is reached.

Tip: Always slip the first stitch of each row as if to knit, with the yarn held in back, this helps create a clean, neat edge. This textured stitch is simple to knit and creates a beautiful reversible fabric. The “wrong side” is especially striking and gives a unique woven look.

Knit in the round

I created a beanie that uses this stitch, The Breeze Beanie, you can find the pattern in my Shop.

Cast on a multiple of 2

Pattern is two rounds, repeated until desired length is reached.

Round 1: *k2, p2; rep from * to end.

Round 2: *keeping yarn in front of work, sl2, p2; rep from * to end.

Repeat these 2 rounds until desired length is reached.

k =  knit

p = purl

sl = slip

sts = stitches

rep = repeat

Asterisks: asterisks * are used in this pattern to indicate repetition of a sequence of stitches. For example when you see *k1, p2; rep from * to end. This means knit 1 stitch, purl 2 stitches until you reach the end of the row.

k & p abbreviations: describe the detailed workings of the pattern. For example; k1, p4, k2 written in a pattern means you knit 1 stitch, then purl 4 stitches, then knit 2 stitches.

Multiples: some patterns require a certain number of stitches to form a complete pattern, the number of stitches cast on the needle must be divisible by this number. In the beginning of the pattern when stated multiples of 5, this means to cast on a number that 5 can go into, such as 10, 15 or 20, you get to choose the number depending on what it is you are making. If a pattern asks for a multiple of 3 + 1 this means you cast on a number that 3 can go into, then add 1 additional stitch, for example if you want to use 9 as your multiple of 3 you would cast on 10 stitches then add 1 stitch for a total of 10 stitches cast on.

Repeat: written as rep in a pattern.

sl: this abbreviation means you transfer the stitch from the left hand needle on to the right hand needle without knitting it, then you follow the directions for  the next stitch. For example; sl1, k1 written in a pattern means you slip the first stitch from the left hand needle on to the right hand needle without knitting it, then knit the next stitch.

stitch(es): abbreviated as st or sts in a pattern.

Knit samples knit using Lion Brand Yarn Wool-Ease Thick & Quick

I really hope you enjoy this stitch pattern, I wanted to add a section to my website so that I could share some of my favorite stitches and how I like to knit them. I also have been enjoying converting traditionally flat stitches into being knit in the round.

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If you’re interested in the Breeze Beanie Pattern that features this stitch, you can find it available for purchase as a PDF by visiting the link below.

The Breeze Beanie Pattern PDF

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