Broken Rib Stitch

The Broken Rib stitch is a very simple yet rather beautiful Rib Stitch. It is similar to a 1×1 rib stitch except that it inserts a row in between the stitches which breaks up the pattern a bit.

Unlike the majority of Rib Stitches, this is not reversible – at least not in the sense that you will see the same pattern on both sides of the fabric. You could argue that it is, in fact, two stitches in one as the reverse that is created is a beautiful raised dimpled text similar to the Moss Stitch or Seed Stitch. This reverse is sometimes referred to as the Rice Stitch.

So, how do you create it? This stitch requires mastery of the two basic stitch techniques, knit and purl. These two stitches are combined in right side (odd numbered rows) by simply alternating between them – knit one stitch then purl one stitch and repeat throughout the row. This repeating pattern is “broken” by knitting every stitch in the wrong side (or even rows).

Looking for more new stitches? Check out our stitch dictionary for some inspiration!

Instructions for the Broken Rib Stitch

Cast on the required number of odd stitches for your project. Row 1 consists of a repeating knit one, purl one pattern which should be continued to the last stitch which is knitted. Knit every stitch of row 2.

Once you have completed row 2, simply reverse the fabric and continue repeating rows 1-2 until you have the desired size.

Difficulty level:

Cast on:

Cast on an odd number of stitches.

Techniques Used:

k
p

Traditional Instructions

Row 1: *k1, p1; repeat from * to the last stitch of the row; k1.
Row 2: k all stitches

Repeat rows 1-2 to desired length.

Broken Rib Stitch Chart

Broken Rib Stitch Swatch Examples

Example – Right Side

Example – Wrong Side