Here is a photo tutorial to show you how to make the crochet 2×2 rib stitch. Which is a knit-look ribbing technique that’s achieved with simple and easy stiches. Such as single crochet and half double crochet worked in back loops only.
If you are a beginner looking into expanding your skills, then ribbing will be a great next step for you. For experienced crocheters, this is a great way to create your own patterns.
Another thing to keep in mind about the crochet 2×2 rib stitch is it creates a very stretchy fabric. So, for projects that don’t require a positive ease, you need to be cautious with sizing.
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Table of Contents
What does ribbing mean in crochet?
Ribbing is a technique in crochet that you create by alternating rows of raised and sunken rows of stitches. Typically, by crocheting in back loops only or in back/front crochet posts.
Generally, ribbing is used for sweaters, cuffs, beanies, brims, scarves, and blankets. But you can make any other projects when you want to add a more pronounced knit-look texture.
Is the crochet 2×2 rib stitch easy?
Yes, it is very easy! Basically, all you need to know is how to chain, single crochet and half double crochet. But please keep in mind the below instructions are for a swatch only.
If you are a beginner and want to use this technique for a more complex project, I recommend that you follow a pattern.
The skills you will need
Although the crochet 2×2 rib stitch may seem elaborated at first, all you need to know is how to do some simple stitches.
Here are the basic skills you will need:
- Chain (ch): insert the hook in next stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop.
- Single Crochet (sc): Insert the hook in next stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over again, pull through both loops.
- Half Double Crochet (hdc): Yarn over, insert the hook in next stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop. Yarn over again, pull through all three loops on hook.
How to crochet 2×2 rib stitch
I have spelled out the instructions in this portion of the article. Keep scrolling if you prefer a printing version with abbreviations.
Crochet any odd number of chains for the foundation. The pictured swatch was started with 25 chains.
Crochet row 1 (Right Side):
Half double crochet in 3rd chain from hook and in every chain across, chain 1, turn [24].
Note: The next two steps with be the trick to create the ridges or the crochet 2×2 Rib Stitch.
Crochet row 2 (Wrong Side):
Single crochet, *insert the hook in the same stitch as last stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook), insert the hook in next stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Do not yarn over. Pull up that third loop on the hook through the first two loops.
Repeat from the asterisk across. When you have three loops on the hook to do the last stitch, yarn over and pull through all three, chain 2, turn [24]
Crochet row 3:
Half double crochet in back loop only across, chain 1, turn [24]
Then, repeat rows 2 and 3 to the desired size.
Tutorial notes and instructions
Here is some useful information before you start practicing this stitch swatch.
- This tutorial was written using US terminology.
- Skill Level: Easy.
- Row multiples: two row-repeat
- Gauge: 14 sts x 10 rows on the pictured swatch = 4” (10 cm).
- Chain 2 count as a half double crochet stitch.
- Chain 1 does not count as a stitch.
Stitch abbreviations:
- blo: back loop only
- ch (s): chain (s)
- hdc: half double crochet
- RS: Right Side
- WS: Wrong Side
- sc: single crochet
- st (s): stitch (s)
- yo: yarn over
Supplies you will need:
- Yarn – for the swatch pictured here I used worsted weight (#4) I Love This Yarn by Hobby Lobby.
- Crochet Hook – I used Clover Amour 5.00 mm (US H)
- Yarn Scissors
- Tapestry Needle
How To Crochet 2x2 Rib Stitch
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to crochet 2x2 rib stitch. A ribbing technique that looks like knitting and is great for hats, sweaters, blankets and many other projects.
Materials
- Worsted Weight/Medium yarn
Tools
- 5.00 mm (US H) crochet hook
- Scissors
- Stitch marker
- Tapestry needle
Instructions
- Crochet any odd number of chains for the foundation. The pictured swatch was started with 25 chains.
- Row 1 (RS): hdc in 3rd ch from hook and in every ch across, ch 1, turn [24]
- Row 2 (WS): sc, *insert the hook in same st as as last st, yo, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook), insert the hook in next st, yo, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Do not yo. Pull that third loop on the hook through the first two loops. Repeat from the asterisk across. When you have 3 loops on the hook to do the last st, yo and pull through all 3, ch 2, turn [24]
- Row 3: hdc in blo across, ch 1, turn [24]
- Repeat rows 2 and 3 to the desired size.
Notes
- This tutorial was written using US terminology.
- Skill Level: Easy.
- Row multiples: two row-repeat.
- Gauge: 14 sts x 10 rows on the pictured swatch = 4” (10 cm).
- Chain 2 count as a half double crochet stitch.
- Chain 1 does not count as a stitch.
There is a free crochet ribbed beanie pattern made with this stitch. Head over to the blog post here to get the pattern.
More stitch tutorials for beginners
- Crochet Moss Stitch with charts.
- Crochet Alpine Stitch step-by-step tutorial with photos.
- How to crochet the popcorn stitch.
- How to crochet the seed stitch with color change instructions.
Final thoughts
There you have the instructions for this amazing crochet ribbing technique. If you are looking into creating something new with beautiful textures, give this stitch a try.
Drop a comment below if you have any questions or if you just would like to say “hi”. Another way to reach out to me is by joining my community group on Facebook.
If you use any of my patterns or tutorials for a project, please tag me @zamiguz or use the hashtag #zamiguzmakers. I would love to see what you make.
