Clean-Edge Ribbing Cast-On: How to Get a Flawless Start on Your Knitting Machine
- N/A
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 8
When you're knitting on a machine, a clean, even start to a ribbed project can make all the difference. While it might seem a bit tricky at first, mastering the perfect rib start is a simple skill that will elevate your finished garments. The "secret" to achieving a professional, flawless edge is a smart set-up using waste yarn and ravel cord.
SILVER REED KNITTING MACHINES
(SINGER , STUDIO, EMPISAL, KNITMASTER, ELNA)
Step 1: Set Up with Waste Yarn
Arrange Needles: First, arrange the needles on both beds in the configuration needed for your desired rib pattern.
Knit Set-Up Row With Waste Yarn: Knit one set-up row, using the tightest tension setting on both the main bed and the ribber (tension of 0).
Note: A "set-up row" is a vital first step for all ribbed projects on a knitting machine. It's knitted using the tightest tension (typically 0) to create a firm foundation. This ensures that the ribber comb and weights can securely grip the fabric, preventing dropped stitches and guaranteeing a clean, consistent start to your ribbing.
Add Weights: Attach a ribber comb and weights to the zigzag Set-Up row.
Knit approximately 11 rows of ribbing, ending with the carriage on the left.
Cut the Waste Yarn and switch to Ravel Cord
Step 2: Ravel Cord
Knit 2 rows with ravel cord, using partial knitting (circular knitting), ending with the carriage on the left.
Tip: Hand feed the ravel cord to save time.
Cut the ravel cord and switch to your main yarn.
Step 3: The Circular Start
Main Yarn Circular Start: First knit a Set-up Row. Next, use your machine's circular knitting settings to create a fabric tube. This means you'll knit one bed at a time for three passes.
Step 4: Ribbing
To prepare for your rib pattern, first disengage the circular knitting settings on both carriages. Then, if your pattern requires it, rack to the correct position for your chosen rib.
Begin Ribbing: Set the tension dials on both carriages to the appropriate stitch length for your chosen ribbing pattern, and start knitting your rib.
Set-Up Row Needle Arrangement & Racking Positions
Full Needle Rib (Double Rib)
Standard: H5
Bulky: H3
1x1 Rib (K1.P1. Rib)
Standard: P5
Bulky: P3
2x2 Rib (K2.P2. Rib)
Standard: H5
Bulky: H2
Change Needle Position After Circular Rows
Change to pitch and rack
Standard: P6
Bulky: P3
*For an even cleaner 2x2 ribbing edge, instead, begin with a 1x1 circular cast-on, then manually rearrange the needles to the 2x2 pattern. This creates a tidy, stable foundation that looks more professional.
2x1 Rib (Swiss Rib)
Standard: H5
Bulky: H2
Change Needle Position After Circular Rows
Stay at half pitch and rack
Standard: H6
Bulky: H3
*After finishing your ribbing, first switch the machine from half-pitch to the main pitch position before you transfer any stitches to the main bed.
Tubular Hem
Standard: H5
Bulky: H3
