How to Knit Fisherman's Rib Stitch
Even for beginners, learning to knit the fisherman's rib stitch is a breeze!
The fisherman's rib stitch is a fun and fluffy variation on a traditional 1 by 1 rib stitch. In fact, some knitters even prefer the fisherman's rib to other rib stitches because it's simply a one-row repeat stitch with a set up row. This stitch, however, gives you a wonderful, multidimensional effect to your finished fabric that's warm, cozy, and extra fluffy.
Use this easy knitting stitch for the ends of sweater sleeves or the brims of hats for its stretchiness, or knit an entire piece in this stitch for a thick, cozy winter piece. This tutorial is also great for tea cozies or coffee sleeves due to the thickness and its flexibility. After trying this stitch out, you may never find yourself using the classic rib stitch again.
Many people compare this rib stitch to brioche knitting. While it's true that they do look very similar, the fisherman's rib is much, much easier to work, and the structure of the stitches themselves is nearly identical.
Watch and Learn
How to Knit Fisherman's Rib Flat
CO an even number of sts
Row 1 (set up row): P all sts
Row 2: (P1, k1b), repeat ( ) until you have 2 sts remaining, end p2
Repeat row 2 for rest of project.
*See below for our tutorial on how to work a k1b
How to Knit Fisherman's Rib in the Round
CO an even number of sts + 1 for the invisible join
Rnd 1 (set up rnd): K all sts
Rnd 2: (P1, k1b), repeat ( ) around
Rnd 3: (K1, p1b), repeat ( ) around
Repeat rnd 2 for rest of project.
*See below for our tutorial on how to work a k1b/p1b
How to Work a K1B (Knit 1 Below)
Step 1
Work to the point in your pattern that calls for the K1B.
Step 2
Identify the hole below the stitch that calls for the K1B and insert your needle into that hole from front to back.
Step 3
Yarn over and bring the yarn through the stitch, just like a normal knit stitch.
Step 4
Sweep the entire stitch and the stitch above it off of the old needle. (Don't worry, this is not a dropped stitch; working into the stitch below will prevent the stitch from dropping.)
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craftedbyfox
Feb 28, 2017
I live a good browse on this site and nearly always find something new to try. I had never heard of the fishermans rib before and liked the look of it in the image so decided to give it a go. The videos tutorial like all of the ones I have viewed on this site is excellent and takes you through the stitch in a really simple yet effective way. I love how the rib has turned out and think I will be using this on m next baby vest rather than conventional rib. Looking forwarding to putting this new skill into practise.
Sara R
Aug 19, 2016
I'm so glad that I found this video because I've been seeing the fisherman's rib stitch and I've just thought that it was the same as the stockinette stitch! This was super helpful and I can't wait to try it myself!
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