This video knitting tutorial will help you learn how to knit the rank and file stitch. This slip stitch pattern creates a ribbed fabric with an interesting texture. It’s great for men’s scarves, sweater accents, and blankets.

Skill: Easy
Cast On: Multiples of 2

For this pattern you will need to know the following techniques:
Knit – k
Purl – p
Slip Stitch – sl
Yarn Forward – yf
Yarn Back – yb

Pattern Instructions:

Row 1: Knit all stitches
Row 2: K1, *yf, sl 2, yb, sl 2 back to main needle, k those 2 sts; rep from * to last st, k1
Row 3: K1, *p1, yb, sl 1, yf; rep from * to last st, k1
Row 4: K1, *yf, sl 1, yb, k1; rep from * to last st, k1

Repeat rows 1 – 4 until you have reached your desired length.

After a few repeats your pattern should look like this:

Example of the Rank and File Stitch Right Side (click for larger)

Example of the Rank and File Stitch Wrong Side (click for larger)