Twisted Rib Stitch

Twisted rib is ordinary rib with the knit columns twisted so they stand up sharp and defined. Work it like one-by-one rib over an even number of stitches, but knit each knit stitch through the back loop instead of the front: (knit one through the back loop, purl one) to the end, and on the following row work the stitches as they present, again knitting the knits through the back loop. Entering the back loop crosses the base of the stitch, so the knit columns look narrow, firm, and slightly rope-like rather than flat. The result grips more than plain rib, which makes it a favourite for cuffs, hat brims, and sock tops that need to stay put, and it looks tidy on collars and button bands. It is barely harder than plain rib once the back-loop knit becomes automatic, though it works up a little more slowly and with slightly less horizontal stretch. You can twist only the knits, as here, or twist the purls too for an even firmer fabric.