There are several ways to bind off in knitting. The bind-off row technique is after the last row of a knitting project. This technique secures the loops that are on the knitting needle so they don’t unravel at the end of a knitting project. There is the basic knit bind-off (Tutorial Series: The Basic Knit Bind Off), the crochet bind-off, the three needle bind-off, the sewn bind-off, the I-cord bind-off etc. as well as the 1 x 1 rib stitch bind-off.

The 1 x 1 Rib Stitch (Tutorial Series: 1 x 1 Rib Stitch) bind-off method looks different and is stretchier than the regular knit stitch bind-off, making it an excellent choice for maintaining the elasticity of your project. It is the preferred bind-off technique for 1 x 1 ribbing knitting patterns, as it seamlessly blends with the stitch pattern, allowing the ribbing to maintain its characteristic stretch and texture. I have used this bind-off technique in The Increasing and Decreasing Cowl pattern, where it provides a polished look while ensuring the cowl fits comfortably around the neck. This method has become a go-to in my knitting repertoire, especially for the 1 x 1 ribbing patterns in sweaters and hats.

The image below shows the two bind-off methods.

The video and written instructions below on how to knit the 1 x 1 Rib Stitch Bind-off is for right-hand knitting.

The 1 x 1 Rib Stitch Bind-Off:

Written Steps for the 1 x 1 Rib Stitch Bind-off:

1. At the beginning of the bind-off row, knit (Tutorial Series: Knit and Tink) the first stitch on the left knitting needle and place the new stitch on the right knitting needle
2. Purl (Tutorial Series: Purl and Un-Purl) the next stitch on the left knitting needle and place the new stitch on the right knitting needle
3. There are two stitches on the right knitting needle
4. Move the working yarn back of the work
5. Insert the left knitting needle into the front loop of the first stitch on the right knitting needle
6. Pull and lift the first stitch with the left knitting needle and pass it over the second stitch on the right knitting needle
7. One stitch remains on the right knitting needle
8. Knit the next stitch on the left knitting needle and place it on the right knitting needle
9. There are two stitches on the right knitting needle
10. Insert the left knitting needle into the front loop of the first stitch on the right knitting needle
11. Pull and lift the first stitch with the left knitting needle and pass it over the second stitch on the right knitting needle
12. One stitch remains on the right knitting needle
13. Repeat Steps 2 to 7
14. Repeat Steps 8 to 13 to the end of the bind-off row and one remaining stitch
15. Cut yarn and pull through the remaining stitch on the right knitting needle