Classroom: Fun with Flat Ribs

What is Flat Rib?

Skill Builder

Flat Rib Fun

The Goal of this Challenge

The goal of this Skill Builder Challenge is to help you get comfortable with flat ribs—a double-bed technique where all needles are in work on one bed, with selected needles in work on the opposite bed.

Through three exercises, you'll explore how needle selection affects the look and feel of your fabric, gain confidence in setting up and knitting flat ribs, and troubleshoot common issues. Whether you're new to working with both beds or just want to refine your technique, this challenge will give you the skills to add flat ribs to your machine knitting toolbox.
In this challenge you will knit at least 3 swatches. Each exercise will use different skills that may be new to you.

Skills Required:
Before attempting flat ribs you need to be familiar with your ribber and be comfortable with both a 1x1 cast on method and a full needle rib cast on method.

  • Compare 1x1 and Flat Rib

  • Vary the needle Setup

  • Add needles out of work

Get curious ....
  • Try different needle arrangements
  • Try racking the ribber to force the stitches to "travel"
  • Reverse things ... Try keeping all the ribber needles in work and isolate needles on main bed

Flat ribs are a great way to add texture and interest to your knitting—give them a try and see where they take you!
Skill Builder Challenge