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 One of the most
important parts of a garment, whether crocheted, sewn, or knitted, is
fit. But fit can also be one of the most difficult components of a top
to get just right. That's why I adore ribbing. The elasticity in
crocheted ribbing gives you just the perfect amount of give in just the
right places.
 Many projects benefit
from ribbing at the hem or cuff. The use of deep crocheted ribbing on
the sleeves of the Dusk Sweater (at right; Fall 2008) creates the wonderful full
shape that helps to showcase the beautiful lace inset. While other
projects such as the Butterscotch Cardigan (below right; Spring 2008) use all over
ribbing to transform their rectangular construction, allowing it to
follow your own body's curves.
Crocheted ribbing is
and incredibly easy technique. The vertical lines of the ribbing are
actually created by the unworked loops in each row, meaning that the
ribbing is worked and then turned so that the row-ends lay along the top
and bottom edges. Generally worked in single crochet through the back
loop only, you can also work ribbing in slip stitch in the back loop
only for tighter ribbing. Let's look at a couple of methods of using
ribbing.
Ribbing First
The Malabrigo Top (above left; Spring 2009) uses ribbing for the entire lower
bodice. For this type of construction, the 10" of ribbing is worked
first. To work the ribbing for this type of construction, chain the
required number of stitches, turn and single crochet in each chain
across. Then turn and single crochet in the back loop only of each
single crochet across. Repeat the last row until your ribbing reaches
the required length. The length of your ribbing should be equal to the
circumference desired as you will now turn the ribbing 90 degrees and
begin working in the row-ends for the upper portion of the garment.
Work
one stitch in each row-end across the length of the ribbing. Pay
special attention to your gauge. If you want a tighter ribbing, consider
going up in hook size for the upper portion of the garment, or try
working your ribbing in slip stitch in the back loop only.
Ribbing As an Edging
Most projects, like the Dusk Sweater, use shorter lengths of ribbing as
cuffs or at the hem. This ribbing is worked after the remainder of the
project has already been finished, joining as you go. Simply join your
yarn to the edge of your project and chain the number of stitches
required for the length of ribbing desired. Turn and single crochet in
the back loop in each chain across. When you reach the edge of the
garment again, slip stitch in the next row-end adjacent to your join to
attach the ribbing. Slip stitch in the next row-end to begin the next
row of the ribbing and single crochet in the back loop only across each
stitch of the ribbing. Repeat these last two rows until you have worked
the ribbing all the way the edge of the project.
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