The Triple Twist Rib Knitting Stitch creates bold raised columns of twisted stitches separated by narrow purl ribs. The three-stitch twists give the fabric a cable-like appearance, while twisted knit stitches add extra definition along each side of the motif.
Worked over a multiple of 7 stitches plus 2 with only a 2-row repeat, this textured rib knitting pattern is ideal for scarves, hats, sweater panels, cuffs and other projects where you want a firm, highly defined ribbed texture.
When worked firmly in a springy yarn on relatively small needles, the fabric pulls inward much like traditional ribbing. In a softer yarn and with blocking, the pattern can be opened out to create a flatter textured stripe.
Pattern Details
- Stitch Multiple: Multiple of 7 + 2 stitches
- Row Repeat: 2 rows
- Techniques: Knit, purl, twisted stitches and three-stitch twists
- Worked Flat: Yes
Abbreviations
- k: knit
- p: purl
- ktbl: knit through the back loop
- ptbl: purl through the back loop
- t3R: twist 3 right
- st(s): stitch(es)
- RS: right side
- WS: wrong side
How to Work t3R
The t3R is worked differently on the right and wrong sides.
t3R on RS: Knit through the front loop of the 3rd stitch on the left needle, knit through the front loop of the 1st stitch, then knit through the front loop of the 2nd stitch. Slip all 3 stitches from the left needle together.
t3R on WS: Purl through the front loop of the 2nd stitch on the left needle, purl through the front loop of the 3rd stitch, then purl through the front loop of the 1st stitch. Slip all 3 stitches from the left needle together.
Triple Twist Rib Pattern
Cast on a multiple of 7 stitches + 2.
Row 1 (RS): p2, *ktbl, t3R, ktbl, p2; repeat from * to end.
Row 2 (WS): k2, *ptbl, t3R, ptbl, k2; repeat from * to end.
Repeat Rows 1–2 for the pattern.
Helpful Knitting Notes
The t3R is the feature stitch that creates the prominent twisted column. Three stitches are worked out of their usual order while they remain on the left needle, producing the appearance of a small cable without using a cable needle.
The single ktbl stitches on either side of the twist are worked through the back loops. This twists the stitches and gives the edges of each raised column a crisp, well-defined appearance.
On the wrong side, these stitches are worked as ptbl so the twisted columns continue correctly through the fabric.
Working into the third stitch while the stitches remain on the left needle can feel tight at first. Keep your tension reasonably relaxed around the t3R sections so you can insert the needle comfortably.
Choosing Your Cast-On Number
Use:
7 × number of repeats + 2 stitches
- 1 repeat: 9 sts
- 2 repeats: 16 sts
- 3 repeats: 23 sts
- 4 repeats: 30 sts
- 5 repeats: 37 sts
- 6 repeats: 44 sts
Using This Twisted Rib Stitch
For a firm, elastic rib, choose a resilient yarn and work at a fairly firm gauge. The twisted stitches naturally draw the fabric inward and create deep, pronounced columns.
For a flatter decorative fabric, use a softer yarn at a more relaxed gauge and block the finished knitting open. This reveals the pattern as a series of strongly textured vertical stripes.
