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Moss stitch

Seed stitch stretched to two rows. Soft, woven texture.

#6 of 10 · Updated November 2026 · The Yarn Math

Moss stitch, drawn as it looks on the right side of the fabric.

American moss stitch works two rows of 1×1 rib, then shifts the stitches for the next two rows. It looks like a taller, softer seed stitch. In the UK this stitch is usually called double moss stitch.

Stitch countMultiple of 2
LevelBeginner
Curls at the edgesNo
ReversibleYes
Yarn useAbout 15% more than stockinette
Good forBlankets, cowls, cushion covers and sweater panels.

How to knit moss stitch flat

  1. Rows 1–2: *k1, p1; repeat from * to end.
  2. Rows 3–4: *p1, k1; repeat from * to end.
  3. Repeat rows 1–4.

How to knit moss stitch in the round

  1. Rounds 1–2: *k1, p1; repeat from * to end.
  2. Rounds 3–4: *p1, k1; repeat from * to end.
  3. Repeat rounds 1–4.

Chart

1234
Read right-side rows (odd numbers) from right to left and wrong-side rows from left to right. Blank square: knit on the right side, purl on the wrong side. Dot: purl on the right side, knit on the wrong side.

Tips

Cast on

How many stitches to cast on

Measure your gauge on a swatch knitted in this stitch: textured stitches often give a different gauge from stockinette.

Cast on

    Questions

    Does moss stitch curl?

    No. Like seed stitch, it has an even mix of knits and purls on both sides, so it lies flat.

    Planning a project in moss stitch? The yarn calculator estimates how much yarn you need; pick "Textured or ribbed" as the stitch pattern.

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