How to knit the moss stitch knitting pattern
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Moss stitch is a classic textured knit stitch, just as its cousin the seed stitch.
This knitting stitch pattern is built by alternating knit and purl stitches and involves a four row repeat forming a pattern of two similar stitches on top of each other. The pattern reminds of a shifted ribbing, or tiny basketweave.
Moss stitch is reversible and makes a nice pattern for any type of project with two visible sides as scarves and blankets.
Another great feature of this stitch is that it doesn’t curl due to the balance between knit and purl stitches!
Reading tips:
––> Knit and Purl stitch patterns library
––> How to prevent stockinette stitch from curling
The supplies needed
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To knit the box stitch pattern you will need:
- Yarn of your choice
- Knitting needles that suit the yarn
- Scissors
- Wool needle to weave in the ends
Moss stitch knitting flat
Cast on in multiples of two, an even number of stitches (+ edge stitches if you need them)
Rows 1 and 2: *k1, p1*, repeat *–* across the row
Rows 3 and 4: *p1, k1*, repeat *–* across the row
Repeat rows 1–4
I always add two edge stitches when knitting flat because I like to have neat edges on my flat projects for sewing, picking up stitches or making a more visually appealing edge.
I add one stitch at the start of the row and one at the end of the row. Then I slip the first stitch knitwise on every row and purl the last stitch on every row. This way I ensure all edges look nice and tidy, and are easy to seam.
Moss stitch in the round
Cast on in multiples of two (an even number of stitches)
Rounds 1 & 2: *K1, P1*, repeat *–* the whole round
Rounds 3 & 4: *P1, K1*, repeat *–* the whole round
Repeat rounds 1–4.
Reading tips:
––> Circular knitting needles tutorial
––> Is your circular needle too long?
––> Fix twisted stitches
Moss stitch vs. seed stitch
There are some confusions about what’s moss and what’s seed stitch, this is because the names differs between countrys.
The difference is that moss stitch begins with two repeating rows while seed stitch has only one.
In most knitting projects you can switch out seed stitch for moss stitch or vice versa as the tension should be the same.
Reading your knitting
To be able to read your knitting is a wonderful skill to have! Reading your knitting makes it easier to know where you are in a pattern as well as to detect and correct mistakes.
Moss stitch is a great stitch to start practicing on. Look at the columns of V:s, these are the knit stitches. If you have two V:s closest to your needle it’s time to change rows. If there’s only one V, make another row before changing rows.
Moss stitch project idea
A chunky throw to cuddle up under while knitting and watching your favorite Netflix-show is a must-have and because of the chunkiness, it’s quite quick to knit up as well.
I like this free pattern found on LoveCrafts, and the yarn in the butterscotch shade is tempting!
