Crochet Post Stitch Ribbing

Instructions

Tap a section when you finish it.

1. 1Stitch multiple and foundationThis rib uses a multiple of 2 sts + 2: the inner section is an even number and one plain dc forms each edge. For the swatch, ch 26. Row 1: dc in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch across; the first 2 chains don't count as a stitch. (24 dc)
2. 2Getting to know post stitchesFor a post stitch you don't go under the two loops at the top of the stitch; you go around the post (the body) of the dc in the row below. FPdc pushes the post towards you and BPdc pushes it to the back. Side by side they look like the knit and purl columns of knitted rib.
3. 3Pattern row (1-row repeat)Row 2: ch 2 (doesn't count), dc in first st, *FPdc around next st, BPdc around next st; rep from * 11 times, dc in last st. (24 sts) Row 3 and all following rows: work as Row 2. Because the inner section is even, every row reads the same: after turning, the post that sticks out towards you gets an FPdc and the one that recedes gets a BPdc, so the columns stack up.
4. 4Crochet the swatchWork Row 2 twelve times; with Row 1 that's 13 rows and the piece measures about 14 cm. Count 24 sts at the end of every row; forgetting the edge dc is the most common mistake. Check the RS to see that the columns line up straight.
5. 5What to make with itPost stitch rib is perfect for crochet hat brims, cardigan and sweater hems, cuffs and chunky cowls. For a hat brim, work a strip on, say, 14 sts (a multiple of 2 + 2) until it's 5 cm shorter than your head circumference, then join the ends and work the hat body in sc around one long edge. A strip of about 30 rows takes 30 g of yarn.
6. 6FinishingAfter the last row, cut the yarn leaving 15 cm and pull it through the loop on the hook. Weave in the ends through the edge dc with a yarn needle. Dampen the swatch without stretching it, lay it flat and let it dry so the rib keeps its stretch.