What rib knit means
Short answer: Rib knit is a knit with vertical ridges that stretches a lot across and pulls back together again. That is why it is used for edges. Here we look at how it is knitted and where you meet it.
What rib knit is
Rib knit is a knit with vertical ridges that stretches a lot across and pulls back together again. That is why it is used for edges on clothes. The fabric is easy to recognise by its clear lines, and you find it on almost every piece with a neck, sleeves or waistband, whatever material it is made of.
How it is knitted
Rib knit is made with knit and purl stitches in turn, so the fabric forms ridges. The ridges can be pressed flat and spring back, which gives a fabric that hugs the body lightly. It is not the yarn alone but the way the stitches are set that gives stretch, and that is why rib also works in fabrics without elastane.
Where it is used
Rib knit is used in necklines, cuffs and waistbands, where the fabric has to stretch over the head or hand and then close tight again. Without rib, the edge would hang or stand away from the body. See bamboo clothing for men, where you can see how the edges are made.
When the whole garment is rib knit
The whole garment can be rib knit in close fitting tops and undershirts, where the ridges follow the body without the garment needing to be cut in. Rib throughout is also used when the fabric should fit several sizes. See bamboo undershirt for women and bamboo tank top for men.
How rib feels
Rib feels firm and elastic and gives the surface a clear texture. It follows the body without turning tight when you move. Because the fabric pulls together, it looks thinner when laid flat than it is when worn on the body and stretched a little.
Why necklines go slack
Necklines go slack because the rib knit loses its spring after many washes. The threads tire from being stretched and from heat, and then the ridges do not spring back as before. It shows most clearly on clothes that are pulled on and off over the head many times.
How to look after rib edges
Wash at 30 degrees and do not pull on the neckline when you take the piece off. Avoid high heat in the dryer, and let the piece dry flat so the edge is not pulled out of shape. With a little care the rib edge keeps its spring longer, and the clothes look better even after many washes.
What two by two rib means
Two by two rib means the stitches alternate between two knit and two purl. There is also one by one rib, where the stitches alternate one at a time. The wider the ridges, the clearer the pattern, and the more the fabric can give. The label rarely names the variant, but you can see it in the fabric.
Frequently asked questions
Why do necklines go slack
Because the rib knit loses its spring after many washes. Heat and pulling on the edge wear the threads, so the ridges no longer spring fully back as they did at the start.
What does two by two rib mean
That the stitches alternate between two knit and two purl. It gives wide, clear ridges and a fabric that can stretch a good deal and then pull back together again.
Is rib knit warmer
A little, because the ridges hold more air. The difference is not large, but rib often feels slightly denser and warmer than smooth knit made from the same yarn.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
