The Iron Knit Stitch Pattern

Iron Knit Stitch Pattern   |Published 09-28-2023

Here's a great little rib stitch that works great for items that need an interesting twist to the traditional rib.  This could be hats, cowls, or other wearables that need a rib section such as a sweater or cardigan.

This pattern is not completely reversible, but looks great on both sides. The front and back both display a stretchy rib stitch where one side looks more like a 1 x 1 and the other side looks like a 2 x 1 rib.  This can add additional texture to a project.

The iron knit stitch pattern worked in red yarn, closeup view

Notes on the Iron Knit Stitch Pattern

  • Row Count: 2-Row Repeat
  • Stitch Repeats: Multiples of 4 + 1, meaning that you will cast on a multiple of 4 stitches, such as 20, plus 1 st.
  • A little blocking will make this fabric look prfessional.
  • Both sides of the fabric are not identical, but this stitch pattern can be used in projects where both sides are facing. A photo of each side can be seen below.

Materials Needed to Create the Iron Knit Stitch Pattern

  • Yarn: I recommend a worsted-weight yarn (#4) in a light color so you can see your stitches. Use wool, acrylic, cotton, or what you have on hand. Smooth, non-slippery yarn works best for beginners.
  • Knitting needles: If using #4 yarn, choose a pair of knitting needles size 7 ( 4.50 mm ) or 8 ( 5.0 mm).
  • Scissors
  • Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Skill Level

This is a basic or very beginner-friendly knit stitch.

From the Craft Yarn Council, the symbol used to determine the skill level required to finish the project.

Abbreviations

K – knit
P – Purl
** - Repeat instructions between the * * asterisks

How to Make the Iron Knit Stitch Pattern

The Iron knit stitch pattern worked in white yarn, right sideThe Knit Iron Stitch Right Side
Iron knit stitch swatch worked in white yarn, wrong sideThe Iron Knit Stitch Wrong Side

Cast on a multiple of 4 sts, plus 1 extra stitch.  If you like to have an extra selvage stitch, add two more stitches.

Row1: (RS) *k1, p3* repeat across row to last stitch k1.
Row 2: (WS) p1, *k1, p1* repeat across row.

Repeat Rows 1-2 until you have reached your desired length. Bind off in pattern and weave in ends.

Learn to Read a Stitch Chart

This beginner-level stitch doesn’t require a knitting chart, but if you learn how to use one now, it will be much easier when you attach more complicated stitch patterns. This is a very simple chart.  For more information on knitting chart, check out the knit chart tutorial.

Iron Knit Stitch Pattern Knit Chart

knitting chart of the iron knit stitch pattern

Last Words

The iron knit stitch pattern is an easy, beginner-friendly stitch pattern that is worked on a two-row repeat and a stitch pattern of 4 + 1. 

While not exactly reversible, both sides create a beautiful rib pattern that perfect for a project that needs something a bit more fancy than the typical one by one rib pattern.  

Iron Knit Stitch Pattern:  Pin for Future Reference

Iron knit stitch pattern show with a right and wrong side view, pin imageIron Knit Stitch Pattern Pin Image

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About Janice

Hi, I’m Janice, the voice behind Smart-Knit-Crocheting. I love to knit and crochet and even more, I love teaching others what I know.

Though I learned to knit and crochet as a child, I didn’t get serious about these amazing hobbies until I retired. I’m a certified knit and crochet instructor through the Craft Yarn Council and am working on becoming a Master Hand Knitter through The Knitting Guild Association.

I’m currently living with my husband of over 50 years and our 7 Shih Tzu dogs.

I love hearing from you, so please drop me a line and let me know what you’re working on, whether you love knitting or crocheting more, and if you have any questions. Please visit my about me page for more information.


Happy Crocheting