Moss Stitch for Beginners

Moss stitch is part of the “broken rib” family of stitches, including seed stitch and Irish moss stitch. These stitches are variations of the traditional 1×1 and 2×2 rib stitches.

Where traditional rib features columns of knits and purls, broken rib stitches “break up” the columns by introducing errant knits and purls to create totally new stitch patterns.

Moss stitch is very similar to seed stitch. While seed stitch alternates knit and purl stitches every row, Moss Stitch alternates every other row. You can think of Moss Stitch as a “longer” version of seed stitch.

The result is a four-row pattern that’s beautifully nubby in texture. It can stand alone in a pattern (as with the Moss Stitch Scarf) or serve as a background stitch to a complex cable pattern.

Moss Stitch lays flat and is fully reversible, making it perfect for scarves, shawls and blankets.

This swatch is knit using Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK in the color 425 Pistachio Green.

To explore more stitches for beginners, check out the 10 Best Beginner Stitches series.

Moss Stitch Pattern:

Cast on an even number of stitches

Row 1 and 2: *K1, P1; repeat from * to end of row

Row 3 and 4: *P1, K1; repeat from * to end of row

Repeat Rows 1-4 for Moss Stitch flat

Moss Stitch in the Round:

Cast on an even number of stitches

Round 1 and 2: *K1, P1; repeat from * to end of round

Round 3 and 4: *P1, K1; repeat from * to end of round

Repeat Rounds 1-4 for Moss Stitch in the round

Abbreviations: 
* *: Repeat instructions between the asterisks the number of time indicated
K: knit
P: purl

What Can You Knit with Moss Stitch?

This chunky scarf knit entirely in Moss Stitch and finished off with a fluffy fringe on either end is a winter dream come true! (Sheep and Stitch pattern)

This chic beret incorporates Moss Stitch in the body of the hat and looks absolutely gorgeous! (Free pattern)

This baby blanket features lace and moss stitch. The combination of dense nubby texture and open lace is so perfect (premium pattern)