How to Make the Knit Moss Stitch

By Janice Jones, Certified Knitting & Crochet Instructor (Craft Yarn Council)  Last updated May 15, 2026

The knit moss stitch is a beginner-friendly stitch pattern that creates a dense, beautifully textured fabric that lies flat and looks the same on both sides. Moss stitch belongs to the Knit and Purl Stitches family because it creates texture using only knit and purl stitches. You can also browse the full Types of Knit Stitches guide if you are comparing stitch families. 

What Is the Knit Moss Stitch?

The knit moss stitch is still shown on the needles, with the skein of yarn used to make it.The Knit Moss Stitch (aka Irish Moss, American Moss)

The knit moss stitch is a textured stitch pattern worked over a four-row repeat. Unlike seed stitch, which alternates knit and purl stitches every row, moss stitch works the same sequence for two rows before switching.

This small change creates a fabric that is:

  • Thicker and warmer than stockinette
  • Less stretchy than ribbing
  • Fully reversible
  • Resistant to curling

Because of these qualities, moss stitch is especially popular for scarves, cowls, blankets, washcloths, and other projects where both sides of the fabric will show.

Moss Stitch At a Glance

  • Skill level: Beginner
  • Also called: Irish Moss, American Moss, UK Double Moss
  • Repeat: 4-rows
  • Reversible:  Yes, this stitch is reversible.
  • Multiple: Any even number of stitches
  • Fabric behavior: Lies flat, dense, reversible
  • Best uses: Scarves, cowls, blankets, washcloths

How to Make the Knit Moss Stitch (Flat Using Straight Needles)

Abbreviations

K = Knit

P = Purl

Rep = Repeat

RS = Right side

St(s) = Stitch(es)

WS = Wrong side

Instructions for Working Flat on Straight Needles

Row 1 (RS): *K1, p1; rep from * to end of row.

Row 2 (WS): *K1, p1; rep from * to end of row.

Row 3: *P1, k1; rep from * to end of row.

Row 4: *P1, k1; rep from * to end of row.

Repeat Rows 1-4 for the pattern

Instructions for Working Flat in Chart Form

Knitting chart for the American Moss StitchMoss Stitch (American Moss Stitch) British Double Moss Stitch, Irish Moss Stitch

Instructions for Working in the Round on Circular Needles

Cast on any even number of stitches. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist your stitches. Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round.

Round 1: *K1, p1; rep from * to end of round.
Round 2: *K1, p1; rep from * to end of round.
Round 3: *P1, k1; repeat from * to end of round.
Round 4: *P1, k1; repeat from * to end of round.

Repeat Rounds 1–4 until your project reaches the desired length. Bind off loosely in pattern.

What is the Difference Between the Seed Stitch and the Moss Stitch

Because both stitches use alternating knit and purl stitches and create a similar textured fabric, many beginners assume they are identical even though the row structure differs. Remember, the seed stitch is created with alternating knit and purl stitches in a simple two-row repeat:

Row 1:  K1 P1

Row 2: P1 K1

In other words, you always knit the purl stitches and purl the knit stitches.  

Seed Stitch Tutorial Page

Common Knit Moss Stitch Problems (and How to Fix Them)

A swatch of moss stitch worked with a blue colored yarn.Knit Moss Stitch

Even though the knit moss stitch is easy, there are a few common mistakes that can cause the fabric to look wrong. The good news? All of them are easy to fix once you know what to watch for.

Uneven Tension That Makes the Texture Look Messy

Moss stitch highlights differences between knit and purl tension more than stockinette does. Loose purls or tight knits can make the fabric look uneven. Tension problems are among the most significant issues beginners encounter, but tension improves with more experience.

How to fix it:

  • Slow down when switching between knit and purl stitches
  • Gently snug the yarn after purl stitches
  • Practice on a small swatch before starting a larger project
  • Blocking will help, but even a bit of tension while knitting makes the biggest difference.

Accidentally Knitting Seed Stitch Instead of Moss Stitch

This is by far the most common mistake. I know, I've done this many times, and it is likely because this is an easy stitch, and you are very relaxed and not paying attention.  You may also be tired from knitting for too long.

If your fabric looks flatter and less textured than expected, you may be alternating your knit and purl stitches every row instead of every two rows.

How to fix it:
Remember that moss stitch uses a four-row repeat:

  • Rows 1 and 2 are the same
  • Rows 3 and 4 are the opposite

Stop and check periodically, usually after every couple of rows.  By doing this you can fix your mistake without having to rip out too many rows.

Losing Track of Which Row You’re On

This one goes along with the one above.  Because moss stitch changes every two rows, it’s easy to forget where you are, especially if you set your work down mid-project.

How to fix it:

  • Use a row counter or tally marks to keep track of the row you are on. 
  • Placing a removable stitch marker every four rows can also help beginners stay on track.
  • Or glance at your fabric:  If the last stitch you worked was a knit bump, the next row likely needs to repeat the same sequence.

Does Moss Stitch Affect Gauge or Drape?

How Moss Stitch Affects Gauge

Stitch Gauge

  • Moss stitch is slightly wider than stockinette
  • It does not pull in like ribbing
  • Width is relatively stable and predictable

Row Gauge

  • Moss stitch produces shorter rows than stockinette
  • The fabric builds height more slowly
  • Projects may end up shorter than expected if you don’t measure as you go

Yarn Usage

  • Moss stitch uses more yarn than stockinette
  • Less yarn than heavy cables or brioche
  • Expect slightly higher yardage needs

How Moss Stitch Affects Drape

Moss stitch creates a denser, more structured fabric.  This means:

  • Stands away from the body more than stockinette
  • Holds shape well
  • Feels warm and substantial
  • Less fluid movement

This is why moss stitch works beautifully for:

  • Cowls
  • Scarves
  • Blankets
  • Washcloths

…and why it’s not ideal for:

  • Flowing garments
  • Lightweight shawls
  • Projects that need stretching

Frequently Asked Questions about the Knit Moss Stitch

Does the knit moss stitch pattern lie flat or tend to curl?

This is a great pattern if you want a fabric that will lie flat.  It is also easy to block.

Is this stitch reversible?

Yes, the right side or public side looks exactly like the wrong side, so it is perfect for articles where you’d want both sides to show, as in a blanket.

Can you explain the Difference between the American Moss Stitch and the Irish Moss Stitch?

Different countries use different terms for the same stitch.

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

  • U.S. Moss Stitch = 4-row repeat (this tutorial)
  • U.K. Double Moss Stitch = same 4-row repeat
  • U.S. Seed Stitch = 2-row repeat
  • U.K. Moss Stitch = same as U.S. seed stitch

You may also hear the U.S. moss stitch called Irish moss or American moss stitch. These names all refer to the same four-row pattern shown on this page.

How does the American Moss Stitch differ from the Moss Stitch in the U.K?

The American Moss Stitch uses a four-row repeat, where the British Moss Stitch uses a two-row repeat, which is also identical to the American Seed Stitch.

What Can you Make with the Knit Moss Stitch?

Since the knit moss stitch is straightforward and beginner-friendly, it’s a great pattern for practicing those new knitting skills.  It creates a beautiful, textured fabric that can be as thick as you like.  

There are so many different possibilities.

Washcloths, mats, coasters, and scarves are just a few of the straightforward projects to try out this stitch.  Consider a thick cowl or a heavy jacket made with bulky yarn and big needles.

A chunky warm blanket for those cool winter nights would also make an excellent gift for a special person.

Pin for Future Reference

Moss Stitch Pin Image

Related Stitch Patterns

Knit seed stitch worked in white close up viewSeed Stitch
Box knit stitch swatch in read yarn, thumbnail imageBox Stitch (Double Moss)