Mistake Rib Stitch Pattern: Beginner-Friendly Step-by-Step Tutorial

Mistake Rib Stitch Pattern by Janice |Updated 01-27-2024

The mistake rib stitch is a super easy pattern with offset stitches that give it the characteristic name. It works just like the 2 x 2 rib stitch, but adding an extra stitch causes it to look like a mistake.

By adding just one stitch when you cast on stitches, the normal 2 x 2 rib will be displaced by that one stitch, creating a more textured fabric.

This reversible pattern makes it perfect for scarves, neck warmers, and hats where both sides are visible. Since it can be worked flat with just one row of instructions, it’s perfect for working while watching television or relaxing.

I have provided the instructions for working this stitch in the round and when worked flat.

Working the Mistake Rib Stitch in the Round

You can work this pattern either flat or in the round. There is a tiny difference when working the pattern on circular needles. You will work two rounds rather than the one-row repeat on flat needles.

If you decide to try this in the round, I recommend placing a stitch marker at the beginning to help you keep track of where the round begins.

---

Cast on in multiples of four stitches, being careful not to twist the stitches.

Round 1: *K2, P2, repeat from the* to the end of the round
Round 2: P1, *K2, P2, repeat from* to the last 3 stitches, K2, P1

Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until you reach your desired length.

Bind off in a pattern and weave in ends.

Skill Level

Basic

Abbreviations Used

K – Knit
P – Purl
* * Repeat the instructions between the asterisks for the number of times indicated in the instructions
CO – Cast On
Sts - stitches

Skills Needed

How to Cast on
How to Bind off
How to Knit
How to Purl
How to Weave in Ends

Notes about the Mistake Rib Stitch

• Worked over a multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches.
• One Row Repeat
• Reversible

Is this a Reversible Pattern?

This knit pattern is reversible.  Notice the photos below.  They are identical.

Supplies Needed

1. Yarn
2. Knitting Needles
3. Scissors
4. Yarn Needle for Weaving in Yarn
5. Stitch Marker (optional)

Written Directions

The pattern is worked over a multiple of 4+3 stitches.

I used Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash Merino Wool and
US 7 (4.5 mm)

I cast on 23 stitches (4x5) + 3 sts.

All rows: *K2, P2, repeat from * to last 3 sts, K2, P1.

Repeat this row until you have reached your desired length, then bind off in pattern, meaning you will knit the knits and purl the purls as you remove them from the needles.

Weave in ends.

Ideas for putting this stitch to use

Any place where you might use a rib pattern can also be used to create a fancy, textured rib, such as the Mistake Rib. Scarves, fingerless gloves, cowls, and neck warmers are great project ideas for this stitch.

Knitting Charts

Most knitters just getting started rely on written instructions such as those above to help them learn how to knit. But instructions are also available in the form of charts.

Charts using universally understood symbols become more critical as patterns become more elaborate. The mistake rib stitch is a straightforward, beginner-friendly pattern that can be understood by reading written instructions.

It is essential, however, to learn how to follow easy charts at an early stage.

References Used

Knitting For Dummies Paperback

Mistake Rib Stitch Pattern:  Pin for Future Reference

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a small  commission.

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

Most Popular Pages

---