How to knit the moss stitch

Published on September 8, 2026

Learn to master the moss stitch to create beautifully textured projects. From hats and scarves, to jumpers and cardigans! This step-by-step is ideal to teach any knitting beginner exactly how to moss stitch.

What is moss stitch?

Moss stitch is made up of alternating knit stitches and purl stitches to create a criss-cross of stitches. This can be seen across two rows of stitches following the moss stitch pattern. If you know how to knit stitch and how to purl a row, you should have any trouble picking this stitch up!

If this is your first time trying moss stitch use a nice chunky or super bulky chunky, so you can easily keep track of your knits and purl stitches.

Learn How To Knit

How to knit moss stitch step-by-step

Cast on your stitches.

Row 1. Work alternate knit and purl stitches.

moss stitch row one - alternating knit and purl stitches

Row 2. Knit the purl stitches and purl the knit stitches.

Repeat! Continue until you've knitted the desired amount of fabric and cast off. Voila!

to moss stitch, repeat the same two steps

Pro Tip

If you have an even number of stitches, always start your row with a knit. If it's an odd number of stitches, start the first row with a knit and the second with a purl!

Try out your moss stitch skills with these beginner patterns

Moss stitch cowl

Moss stitch hat

Moss stitch bow

Explore More FREE Patterns

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