Moss stitch is a two-row pattern that alternates knit and purl stitches

Moss stitch creates a textured, bumpy fabric by switching between knit and purl stitches in a specific pattern. On odd-numbered rows, you knit one stitch, then purl one stitch, and repeat across the entire row. On even-numbered rows, you do the opposite: purl one stitch, then knit one stitch, and repeat. This back-and-forth creates the characteristic dimpled look that makes moss stitch recognizable.

The pattern is reversible, meaning both sides look nearly identical, which makes it useful for scarves, blankets, and dishcloths where both surfaces show. It's also one of the easiest textured stitches to learn because you only need to know how to knit and purl—no increases, decreases, or cable needles required.

Key Takeaways

  • Moss stitch alternates knit and purl stitches on every row, with the pattern flipping on each new row.
  • Row 1 is knit one, purl one across; Row 2 is purl one, knit one across; then repeat these two rows.
  • The stitch uses roughly 20 percent more yarn than stockinette stitch because the texture is denser.
  • Moss stitch works best on needles one or two sizes larger than you would normally use for your yarn weight.
  • The pattern is reversible, so both sides of your finished piece will look the same.

Cast on an even number of stitches to start

Moss stitch requires an even number of stitches on your needle—that is, a number divisible by 2, such as 20, 30, or 40 stitches. If you cast on an odd number, the pattern will not line up correctly and you'll end up with a different texture.

Use whatever cast-on method you prefer. A long-tail cast-on or cable cast-on both work well. The cast-on itself does not affect the moss stitch pattern; what matters is that your final stitch count is even.

Row 1: knit one, purl one across the entire row

Start with your yarn in the back of the needle. Knit the first stitch normally. Then bring your yarn to the front of the needle and purl the next stitch. Bring your yarn back to the back and knit the next stitch. Continue this knit-purl-knit-purl pattern all the way across the row until you reach the last stitch, which should be a purl.

When you finish Row 1, you will have used every stitch on your needle and created a new row on your working needle. The stitches should look bumpy and textured already, even after just one row.

Row 2: purl one, knit one across the entire row

On Row 2, you reverse the pattern. Start with your yarn in the front of the needle and purl the first stitch. Then move your yarn to the back and knit the next stitch. Move your yarn to the front and purl the next stitch. Continue purl-knit-purl-knit all the way across until the last stitch, which should be a knit.

This reversal is what creates the moss stitch texture. If you knitted one, purled one on every single row, you would create a different pattern called seed stitch. Moss stitch specifically requires you to flip the pattern on the second row.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 until your piece reaches the length you want

Once you have completed Row 2, go back to Row 1 and repeat the knit-one-purl-one pattern again. Then do Row 2 again with the purl-one-knit-one pattern. Keep alternating between these two rows for as long as your project needs to be.

The rhythm becomes automatic fairly quickly. Many knitters find moss stitch meditative because the pattern is predictable and requires no counting beyond the basic knit-purl sequence. You can work on moss stitch while watching television or listening to a podcast without losing your place.

Bind off when your piece is finished

When you reach the desired length, bind off using your preferred method. A standard bind-off works fine; you do not need anything special for moss stitch. Bind off loosely so the edge does not pucker or curl.

After binding off, weave in any loose ends from your yarn. If you used multiple colors or joined new yarn during your project, trim those tails and find them on the wrong side of the fabric.

Yarn and needle size matter more with moss stitch than with smooth stitches

Moss stitch is denser than stockinette stitch (the smooth, V-shaped stitch most people learn first), so it uses more yarn. A project that calls for 200 yards in stockinette might need 240 yards in moss stitch. Check your pattern's yardage recommendation if you are following one, or add 20 percent to your estimate if you are designing your own piece.

Use needles one or two sizes larger than the yarn label recommends. If your yarn suggests size 6 needles, try size 7 or 8 for moss stitch. This prevents the fabric from becoming too stiff or dense. Knit a small swatch first—about 4 inches square—to see how the fabric feels and looks before committing to a full project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between moss stitch and seed stitch?

Seed stitch knits one, purls one on every single row, so the pattern never flips. Moss stitch alternates the pattern every row: knit-purl on Row 1, then purl-knit on Row 2. Both create texture, but moss stitch has slightly larger bumps and a more pronounced dimpled look.

Can I use moss stitch on circular needles?

Yes. On circular needles, the pattern changes slightly because you are always working in the same direction. Knit one, purl one for the first round, then purl one, knit one for the second round, just as you would on straight needles. The texture will be the same.

What happens if I cast on an odd number of stitches by mistake?

The pattern will not align correctly. You can either rip back and recast with an even number, or add one extra stitch using a yarn-over on your first row. Adding a stitch is faster if you are already several rows in.

Does moss stitch curl at the edges like stockinette does?

No. Moss stitch is naturally flat and does not curl because the alternating knit and purl stitches balance the tension. This makes it ideal for blankets, scarves, and other projects where you do not want to add a border.

How do I fix a dropped stitch in moss stitch?

Use a crochet hook to pick up the dropped stitch, working upward through the rows. Pay attention to whether each row should have a knit or purl stitch in that column—the pattern will tell you which one to use. If you are unsure, rip back to the dropped stitch and reknit that section.