The moss stitch is a fantastic stitch pattern to add to your repertoire, especially if you’re new to knitting. It’s simple, easy to learn, and creates a beautiful texture that looks great in a wide variety of projects.
The moss stitch is basically a longer version of seed stitch. It’s a 4-row repeat where you alternate between knits and purls. The pattern does not curl and is also reversible, making it perfect for projects where both sides of the fabric are visible.
In this step-by-step tutorial on knitting the moss stitch, I will show you how to knit this elegant and textured stitch. It’s a great way to add some fun and extra flair to your knitting. Did I mention it’s super fun to knit?
So grab your yarn and needles, and let’s get started!
What Is a Moss Stitch?
The moss stitch, also known as the Irish moss stitch or American moss stitch, is a knitting stitch pattern that creates a textured fabric with a beautiful raised effect. It’s a variation of a seed stitch, where you knit one stitch and purl one stitch in each row before switching their order after two rows.
By repeating these four rows, the moss stitch pattern emerges, creating a fabric that is relatively thick, dense, and textured. It’s also strong and very hard-wearing, so it will work well in accessories and garments that are going to get a lot of use. In addition, it is often used in various knitting projects like scarves, blankets, and potholders to add visual interest and dimension to the design.
The moss stitch is super simple but very versatile. As the stitch pattern has a balance of knit and purl stitches, it doesn’t curl but lays perfectly flat. This makes it a popular choice for borders and edges of other stitch patterns, such as garter stitch. It is also moderately stretchy and flexible, making it perfect also for garment cuffs.
This reversible pattern looks the exact same on both sides, so it can be used on items and garments where both sides of the knitting will show. It’s often used in scarves and throw blankets as it looks exceptionally good on large surfaces.
In general, you can use any yarn for moss stitch. However, a smoother yarn will give you better stitch definition compared to fluffy fibers. Let all those neat knits and purls show!
How to Knit Moss Stitch
The moss stitch is actually quite easy to learn, which makes it a perfect technique also for beginner knitters.
The pattern is very simple and all you need to know is to knit and purl. In addition, it’s recommended that you recognize how the knit stitches look like a flat V shape and purl stitches like a little bump. This way, you will certainly get the pattern right.
To knit moss stitch, you will repeat four rows. First, you will alternate between knit and purl stitches for a row. Then you will knit the exact same stitch on top of a stitch of the row below. In other words, you will knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches. This way, two knit stitches will sit on top of each other and two purl stitches will sit will sit on top of each other. Next, alternate between purl and knit stitches for a row and then knit the fourth row as you knitted the third row. Then you will just repeat these four rows.
You can cast on either an even or odd number of stitches when knitting moss stitch. Let’s take a closer look how to knit the pattern.
Knitting With Even Number of Stitches
- Row 1: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
- Row 2: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
- Row 3: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
- Row 4: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
Continue repeating these four rows until your work is the desired length.
Knitting With Odd Number of Stitches
- Row 1: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat until you reach the last stitch. Knit the last stitch.
- Row 2: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch. Repeat until you reach the last stitch. Purl the last stitch.
- Row 3: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat until you reach the last stitch. Knit the last stitch.
- Row 4: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch. Repeat until you reach the last stitch. Purl the last stitch.
Continue repeating these four rows until your work reaches the desired length.
How To Knit Moss Stitch in the Round
If you are knitting moss stitch in the round, you will be using double pointed needles or circular needles. In other respects, it is as simple as knitting the stitch in flat.
Basically, the only difference is that you need to use a stitch marker. When you are knitting in the round, place a stitch marker when joining in the round to mark the beginning of rounds. Since you will not turn your work in between the rounds, a stitch marker will tell you where one round ends and another begins.
Otherwise, the basic instructions for knitting moss stitch in flat also apply when knitting it in the round. This means that you will be repeating only four rows as instructed above until you are happy with the size.
What Can You Knit With Moss Stitch?
Textured stitches add fun to your knitting projects and the versatile moss stitch is no exception. Its rich texture makes it a fantastic choice for a wide range of knitting projects.
Here are some ideas to help you incorporate moss stitch into your creations:
- Scarves and cowls: Moss stitch is perfect for creating textured cowls and scarves that are both warm and stylish. Try using a thick yarn and large needles for these cozy and comfortable accessories.
- Home decor: From pillows and cushion covers to throws, blankets, and potholders, moss stitch can add a touch of elegance and luxury to your home. You can use a variety of colors or stick with a single color for a simple and elegant look.
- Baby blankets: Moss stitch creates a plush and comfortable fabric, making it ideal for knitting soft and snuggly baby blankets. Choose pastel or vibrant colors for a charming result.
- Sweaters: Moss stitch can be used to add texture and depth to a sweater. Try using it for the sleeves and into specific sections like cuffs and collars, or as a border for a unique and eye-catching design.
When working with moss stitch, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With its versatility and texture, it’s the perfect stitch pattern for any knitting project.
The best way to get started with moss stitch is to practice with easy, beginner-friendly patterns that use the basic stitch. Here are my favorite patterns to get started with:
This basic knitted potholder in moss stitch will protect your hands from hot pots and pans while infusing your living spaces with charm and personality. You can find the free pattern here.
This beautiful scarf knit entirely in moss stitch with a fluffy fringe on both ends will keep you warm when the temperatures drop. Check out the free pattern here.
Once you master the moss stitch with confidence, make sure to check out this tutorial for knitting the double moss stitch. It’s the big brother of the basic moss stitch and double as fun to knit!
Conclusions
So now you know how to master the moss stitch. Easy-peasy, right?
With the mesmerizing stitch pattern in your repertoire, the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination soar as you create beautiful scarves, cozy blankets, and fashion-forward garments.
Whether you’re a knitting novice or an experienced crafter, moss stitch adds a touch of magic to every project. So go ahead, cast on your next knitting adventure and unleash your creativity. Happy knitting!
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