How to Knit an Open Twisted Rib Pattern

Knitting stitches through the back loop is a technique that creates firm, decorative stitches. It takes some practice to master this technique, though. The open twisted rib pattern creates columns of chains with eyelets at their centers. There are four rows to the pattern and each one is different, so be sure to keep track of what you're doing. Read on to learn how to knit an open twisted rib pattern.

Things You'll Need

• Ball of yarn
• Knitting needles

Instructions

Beginning

1. Pick a yarn that's smooth and light-colored so you can easily see the open twisted rib pattern. Worsted, double-knit (DK) or sport weight is the most appropriate for this pattern.

2. Use the needle size suggested on the ball band. Unlike most lacework, the eyelets are subtle and blend into the chain pattern.

3. Cast on a multiple of five stitches plus three extra loosely. A 23-stitch swatch makes a good open twisted rib sample.

4. Start the first row by knitting stitch, purling one stitch through the back loop, and knitting the third stitch. To purl a stitch through the back loop, insert the right needle underneath the back bar and over the front bar of the stitch before purling it.

5. Purl the next two stitches one after the other. Knit the third stitch, purl the one after it through the back loop and end the sequence by knitting a stitch.

6. Repeat Step 2 until the end of the row.

The Second Row

1. Purl the first stitch, knit the next through the back loop and purl the third stitch. To knit a stitch through the back loop, simply insert the right needle into the middle of the stitch so the point picks up the yarn underneath the back bar.

2. Knit the next stitch and make a yarn-over by bringing the yarn in between the needles and throwing it over the right needle. Hold the yarn around the needle with your thumb and forefinger, and knit the next stitch.

3. Make the next stitch a purled one. Then knit the stitch after it through the back loop. Finish with another purled stitch.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 till there are no more stitches in the row.

The Third Row

1. Begin the third row with a knit stitch. Then purl a stitch through the back loop and knit the stitch after it.

2. Purl the next three stitches. Then knit a stitch, purl one through the back loop and knit the stitch after it.

3. Repeat Step 2 until you finish the stitches on the row.

The Fourth Row

1. Start the fourth row by knitting the following sequence: Purl one stitch, knit one through the back loop and purl one.

2. Knit three stitches separately. Then pass the third stitch on the right needle, which was the first one of this series you knit, over the other two.

3. Finish the sequence by purling 1 stitch, knitting the next through the back loop, and purling the third stitch.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 till the end of the row.

Finishing

1. Repeat the four rows described in Steps 4, 5 and 6 of Section 1 and all steps in Sections 2, 3 and 4 six times, so your swatch has 24 rows.

2. Bind off all stitches loosely.

3. Block the knitted fabric so the open twisted rib pattern is clearly visible and the chain design is even and attractive.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your tension isn't too tight or you'll bunch up the chain design.