Rib knit explained

Short answer: Rib is a knitting technique where the stitches alternate between the front and the back. It creates vertical ridges, high stretch across the width and a fabric that pulls in and sits close to the body.

How rib is built

In rib, knit and purl stitches alternate in the same row. The knit stitches stand out on the front and the purl stitches sink back, forming vertical ridges. The fabric stretches a lot across its width and springs back afterwards. It is used for edges and for whole garments, such as the long sleeve bamboo T-shirts.

Different types of rib

Rib is often described with two numbers, such as 1x1 or 2x2. The first number is the count of knit stitches, the second the count of purl stitches. A 1x1 rib has fine, tight ridges and is very stretchy. A 2x2 rib has wider ridges and a clearer texture. Both work the same way but look and drape slightly differently.

Why rib is used for edges

Necklines, cuffs and waistbands need to stretch when you put the garment on and pull back afterwards. That is why they are almost always made in rib. The edge keeps its shape and lies flat without curling, as plain knit otherwise does. See how the edges are finished on the items in most popular at Copenhagen Bamboo.

Rib as a whole fabric

A whole garment in rib sits closer to the body and has more texture than plain knit. The ridges create a vertical line that many find flattering. The fabric feels slightly thicker and fuller in the hand, even though the yarn is the same. That makes rib good for tops worn on their own. See the styles in bamboo tops for women.

Fit in rib

Because rib stretches so much across the width, a rib garment can look narrow on the hanger and still fit well on the body. Choose your usual size for a close fit, and go up a size if you prefer it a little looser. The length changes less, because rib stretches least lengthwise.

Rib and warmth

The ridges hold a little more air than plain knit, and the fabric is denser. That is why rib feels slightly warmer. It works well as a base layer in autumn and winter, and as a light top in spring. In summer, a smooth and lighter knit may feel more airy on the hottest days.

Washing and drying rib

Wash rib at 30 or 40 degrees on a gentle programme. Hot washes and tumble drying can make the fabric lose some of its stretch over time. Ease the garment into shape while it is damp and lay it flat to dry. That stops the ridges from being pulled lengthwise by the weight of the fabric.

Ironing rib

Rib rarely needs ironing, because the fabric smooths itself out once it is on the body. If you do want to iron it, use low heat and steam from a distance. Never press the iron hard into the fabric, because high heat and pressure can flatten the ridges for good. Hang the garment in the bathroom while you shower instead.

Frequently asked questions

Is rib warmer than plain knit

Slightly. The ridges hold more air and the fabric is denser, so rib feels a little warmer. You notice the difference most when the fabric sits close to the body.

Does rib lose its stretch

Over time, yes, especially without elastane and with hot washes or tumble drying. Gentle washing and drying flat help the fabric keep its shape for longer.

Can rib be ironed

Yes, but on low heat and preferably with steam from a distance. High heat and firm pressure can flatten the ridges permanently, so the fabric loses its texture.