How to Crochet Moss Stitch

Moss Stitch is a simple texture pattern made up of chains and single crochet stitches. It’s also known by a few other names—linen stitch, granite stitch, and woven stitch. The fact that it’s also called woven stitch makes sense because the fabric appears to be almost woven.

This stitch is a versatile one, and can be used all-over in any number of garment and accessory patterns. It is reversible—it looks good on both sides, making it suitable for a project such as a scarf where both sides will be seen. Another benefit is that it’s relatively non-curling, so edgings don’t necessarily need to be added to “keep it in line.”

Step-by-Step Instructions: Moss Stitch

Click the arrows to the right and left to scroll through the step-by-step photos.

Step-by-step photos by Amy Gunderson

Crochet Projects Featuring Moss Stitch

Though it can be done with other stiches, Moss Stitch is the most common stitch to work when doing planned pooling. It tends to provide the most consistent results which is important, as this technique relies heavily on gauge. And the appearance of planned pooling with moss stitch is much prettier than, say, plan single crochet in our opinion!

Related: Color Pooling 103: Crocheting Wider Projects in Argyle

When you change colors in moss stitch, fun things happen! The Leaf Peeping Tee uses three contrasting colors that change every single row. This shows off how moss stitch blends colors together. By working into the chain spaces instead of stitches, colors are carried up in a sense, and appear to alternate color every other stitch. There are endless possibilities when it comes to moss stitch and changing colors! Two row stripes essentially make slightly taller stripes, but still have a different and interesting effect. Using one main color with occasional contrast color stripes yields yet a different look. This is one that’s fun to play with to see what happens! It’s typically best to put two colors next to each other that have contrast. If the colors are too close together in value, there won’t be distinct stripes, and the effect will look rather muddled.

Moss stitch can also make a lovely edging in combination with an overall lacy stitch. Since moss stitch is non curling, it can be an attractive alternative to something else such as half double crochet or post stitches. It’s also a “thin” stitch as far as crochet stitches go, making moss stitch perfect for creating a folded hem. To do this, just work your edging twice as tall as the intended height, then fold half to the inside of the piece and sew down.

Whew— who knew the mighty moss stitch was capable of so much!? We hope this how-to has sparked some creative ideas in your maker mind. Have you used moss stitch before? What do you think a good project would be to use this stitch on? Let us know in the comments below!

Originally from Iowa, Amy Gunderson lives in sunny Reno, NV. She’s been the creative director for Universal Yarn, yarn director for Jimmy Beans Wool, and all-around yarn enthusiast for over a decade. Her knit and crochet designs have appeared in most major magazines including Interweave Knits. When she’s not dreaming up a crazy sweater idea, you can find her violining, knitting at the dog park or smashing balls on the tennis court. Follower her on Instagram as @amyyounggunderson or on Ravelry as @amygunderson.