1x1 and 2x2 Rib Knitting Patterns with Stripes

Instructions

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1. 1Stitch multiple and cast onThis swatch uses a multiple of 4 sts + 2: that count works for 1x1 rib (an even number) and for 2x2 rib that starts and ends with knits. With colour A, cast on 30 sts (4 x 7 + 2) on 4 mm needles. Use a stretchy cast-on such as the long-tail method for ribbing.
2. 21x1 rib (rows 1-20)Row 1 (RS): *k1, p1; rep from * to end. (30 sts) Rows 2-20: work as Row 1. With an even stitch count every row reads the same, because on the WS the first stitch looks like a knit and is knitted. In short, you work the stitches as they appear: knit the knits and purl the purls.
3. 3Striped 2x2 rib (rows 21-40)Row 21 (RS, colour B): knit all sts. Row 22 (WS): p2, *k2, p2; rep from * to end. Row 23: k2, *p2, k2; rep from * to end. Row 24: as Row 22. Rows 25-28: with colour A, repeat rows 21-24. Work these 4-row stripes 5 times in total in the order B, A, B, A, B (to row 40). (30 sts)
4. 4Clean colour changesIf you rib the row where you change colour, bumps of the old colour show as dots in the purl columns. That's why the first RS row of each new colour is knitted across, which turns the stripe into a smooth line. Don't cut the unused colour; carry it up the side and twist the two yarns once at each colour change.
5. 5Compare the two ribsWhen the swatch is done, measure and stretch both sections. 1x1 rib looks finer and denser, stretches a lot widthwise and springs back immediately; it's ideal for sock cuffs, mitten wrists and necklines. 2x2 rib gives bolder columns and is more decorative for hat brims, sweater hems and scarves. Measured unstretched, the two sections are nearly the same width; the difference shows when you stretch them.
6. 6What to make with itStriped 2x2 rib makes a smart hat or cowl on its own. For a hat in the round, cast on 100 sts (a multiple of 4), work *k2, p2* every round, and knit the colour-change round plain; at 20 cm, decrease for the crown. Use 1x1 rib for cardigan and sweater edges with a needle one size smaller than the body.
7. 7FinishingAfter row 40, bind off loosely in pattern, knitting the knits and purling the purls; a tight bind-off kills the stretch of ribbing. Weave in each colour's ends into its own colour along the edge. Block ribbing without stretching: just dampen it and lay it flat, don't pin it out.