How To Knit Moss Stitch

Seed Stitch or Moss Stitch?

Moss stitch and seed stitch can be two different names for the same stitch. This two row repeat that is as simple as alternating knit and purl stitches is known as Seed Stitch in the US and as Moss Stitch in the UK.

Being from Canada, where I have influences from both UK and US, my friends and I cannot agree on what to call this stitch but either way it is one of the most popular decorative stitch patterns. I typically say moss stitch and double moss stitch.

Not only does the moss stitch add texture and structure to your knitting, but it’s also beginner-friendly. Once you get the hang of switching between knit and purl stitches, you’ll find it to be a rhythmic and satisfying pattern to work on.

Looking to add a border or edging to your next knitting project? This guide will show you step-by-step how to knit the moss stitch, troubleshoot common mistakes, and use it creatively in your designs. Let’s dive into this essential stitch pattern!

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Moss Stitch

The moss stitch is a great stitch to add texture to a pattern or a border on stockinette pieces.

When knitting this stitch, remember to knit your purls and purl your knits. When knitting ribbing, you do the opposite to create the columns of knit and purl stitches. When learning how to knit moss stitch, keep in mine you are wanting to create alternating bumps. If you see a V, that is a knit stitch and therefore you will purl that stitch. If you see a bump, that is a purl stitch and therefore you will knit.

This moss stitch swatch was knit using Bernat Super Value in the colourway Grey Ragg on size 6* Addi click knitting needles. I cast on 25 (24+1) stitches using the long tail cast on.
*I am a loose knitter so I size down. The recommended knitting needles for this yarn is 5.0mm US Size 8.

Follow these steps to create this timeless stitch pattern:

How to Knit Moss Stitch

Moss stitch is achieved by alternating between knitting and purling – k, p. This created a textured fabric. When knitting this stitch, remember to knit your purls and purl your knits from the row below.

Moss Stitch Worked Over An Even Number of Stitches

Step 1: Cast On

Cast on your desired number of stitches. I recommend casting on a multiple of 2.

Step 2: Knit, Purl

The main repeat of moss stitch is knit 1 stitch, purl 1 stitch.

row 1: *k, p*, repeat until the end of the row

Step 3: Purl, Knit

On the wrong side of your work, the pattern will be opposite. Your repeat is *purl, knit*.

row 2: *p, k*, repeat until the end of the row

Step 3: Repeat

Continue alternating between these two rows the next until your project reaches the desired length.

Moss Stitch Worked Over An Odd Number of Stitches

Step 1: Cast On

Cast on your desired number of stitches. To work the moss stitch over an odd number of stitched cast on a multiple of 2 + 1.

Step 2: Knit, Purl

The main repeat of moss stitch is knit 1 stitch, purl 1 stitch. When worked over an odd number of stitches, you will end with a knit one. This will set you up to begin your next row on a knit 1, turning the moss stitch into a 1 row repeat.

row 1: *k, p*, repeat until the end of the row, knit last stitch

Step 3: Repeat

Continue working in pattern until your project reaches the desired length.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

While the moss stitch is a beginner-friendly knitting technique, a few common mistakes can trip you up. Here’s what to watch out for and how to get back on track:

Mixing Up Knit and Purl Stitches

In moss stitch, you alternate between knit and purl stitches across the row and switch them on the next row. Forgetting whether you should knit or purl can disrupt the pattern, leaving a mismatched section.

How to Fix It:

• Always check your stitches before starting a new row. If the stitch below your working yarn looks like a “V,” it’s a knit stitch; if it looks like a bump, it’s a purl stitch.
• Keep a row counter or jot down notes to track your progress, especially on larger projects.

Losing Track of Rows

Moss stitch requires alternating stitches every row, but it’s easy to lose count and accidentally repeat the same pattern for two rows. This creates a ribbed texture instead of the signature bumpy look.

How to Fix It:

• Use a stitch marker at the beginning of each row to remind yourself when to switch.
• Count rows periodically to ensure your pattern remains consistent.
• If possible, cast on an odd number of stitches to turn moss stitch into a 1 row repeat

Tension Issues

Inconsistent tension can make your moss stitch look uneven, with some areas appearing tighter or looser than others.

How to Fix It:

• Practice knitting with relaxed, even tension, and take breaks if your hands feel strained.
• Block your finished piece to even out the stitches and create a polished look.

Dropping Stitches

Accidentally dropping a stitch can be especially tricky in moss stitch since the alternating pattern makes it harder to identify where the mistake happened.

How to Fix It:

• Use a crochet hook to pick up the dropped stitch, ensuring it matches the correct knit or purl sequence.
• If the mistake is too far back, consider unraveling a few rows to fix the error.