How to Crochet a Ribbed Stitch with Front Post and Back Post Double Crochet

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Work the foundation row

Start with a slip knot, then chain an even number of stitches — any multiple of two will work, such as 20. Add two extra chains to that total (for example, 20 becomes 22), then work a double crochet into the third chain from your hook and continue in double crochet all the way across the row. This foundation row sets up the columns, or "posts," that the ribbing will be built from.

Step 2 — Learn the front post and back post double crochet

These two stitches are what create the ribbed texture. For a front post double crochet (fpdc), wrap your yarn as usual, but insert your hook from the front, behind the entire post of the stitch below rather than into the top of it, then complete the double crochet as normal — this pulls that column forward. For a back post double crochet (bpdc), wrap your yarn, take your hook behind your work and insert it from the back, in front of the post, then complete the double crochet as usual — this pushes that column backward.

Step 3 — Work your first ribbed row

Chain two and turn your work. Leave the very first stitch of the row as your foundation edge, then alternate a front post double crochet, a back post double crochet, and so on across the row, working into each stitch column in turn. Treat the last stitch of the row — worked into the top of the turning chain — as a plain double crochet rather than a post stitch, since it forms the side edge of your piece rather than part of the ribbing.

Step 4 — Continue building the rows

Chain two and turn after each row, then repeat the front post/back post pattern. Keep in mind that each stitch column reads differently depending on which side you're working from — a column you worked as a front post on one row will read as a back post when you come back to it from the reverse side, so keep alternating consistently rather than trying to match the stitch names row to row. Gently pull down on your stitches as you go to help maintain height and keep the ribbing well defined. The first row or two may look a little rough, but the pattern becomes much more distinct as you add rows — around four rows is a good amount for a defined edge on a sleeve or sweater hem without overdoing it.

Step 5 — Adjust the width and look of your ribbing

You can change the character of the ribbing by varying how many front post and back post stitches you group together in each column. Alternating one front post and one back post creates a traditional, narrow-looking rib. Grouping two back posts with one or two front posts produces a noticeably wider stitch pattern. Experiment with different combinations to find a look you like — the same two stitches can produce quite different results depending on how you group them.

Step 6 — Transition into your main stitch pattern

Once your ribbed section is the height you want, finish the last row as a plain double crochet row, then chain two and switch to whatever stitch pattern makes up the main body of your project — half double crochet is a common choice for a smooth transition. The ribbing gives the finished edge a stretchy, tailored look that reads as a nicer, more professional finish than ending abruptly on a plain row, whether it's used at a cuff, a hem, or the edge of a blanket.

Frequently asked questions

What materials do I need for this ribbed stitch tutorial?
You'll need yarn, scissors, and a crochet hook — a 5mm aluminum hook works well, but you can use whatever size suits your preferred tension.

What skill level is this ribbed stitch pattern for?
This is an intermediate stitch pattern. It builds on the double crochet stitch, so it helps to be comfortable with basic double crochet before starting, though the front post and back post stitches themselves are simple once you get the hang of them.

How do I adjust the width of the ribbing?
Change the number of front post and back post stitches you group together in each column. One front post, one back post, repeated, gives a traditional narrow rib, while grouping two back posts with one or two front posts produces a noticeably wider ribbed effect.

How do I transition from the ribbing into another stitch pattern?
Finish your last ribbed row as a double crochet row, chain two, and turn. From there you can switch to another stitch, such as half double crochet, to smoothly carry the ribbed edge into the main body of your project.

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