Introducing Half Milano Rib Knitting

Today, we’d like to introduce a knitting technique we couldn’t cover in our last post—Half milano rib.

---

What Is Half Milano Rib?

---

Half milano rib is a knitting method that combines full cardigan rib with tubular knitting.

If you read our previous blog post about full cardigan stitch, you can think of half cardigan rib as the jersey version of that technique.

By adding a jersey structure on the reverse side, it reinforces the fabric, but results in a slightly lighter weight compared to full cardigan. This makes it perfect for front plackets, side slits, and scarf edges.

How It’s Knitted

Here’s the basic knitting sequence:

1. Knit a full cardigan rib.
2. Knit tubular (jersey) stitches only on one needle bed (the front).
3. Repeat.

Because you’re knitting one row of tubular stitches only on the front needles, the ratio becomes two rows on the front to one row on the back.
That single back row is pulled slightly, causing the fabric to contract a little—this keeps the edges neat and prevents stretching.

---

As a Fabric Structure

---

Interestingly, Half Milano Rib is also known by this name when used as a base fabric. You might be more familiar with Milano Rib, which is a denser and heavier version.
When used for edge finishing, we also call it Half Milano Rib, but in Japanese knitting terminology, it has a specific name for that application.

Compared to Milano Rib, Half Milano produces a thinner, lighter fabric while still maintaining firmness and low stretch. It’s an excellent choice when you want a structured knit without extra weight.

Summary

Half Milano Rib is a versatile technique that combines structure, neat edges, and reduced bulk.
From plackets to scarf ends, it provides a clean, polished look without the heaviness of a full Milano Rib.

Knitting has endless variations, and each technique brings unique texture and function to a garment— is just one of the many ways to add finesse to your designs.