In the UK the seed stitch is known as the moss stitch. However, the version we are discussing today is the US version of the moss knit stitch. The US version of the moss knit stitch is referred to as the double moss knit stitch and the Irish moss stitch in the UK.
Below I will walk you through creating the US version of the moss knit stitch. If you already know how to make the US seed stitch, you will not have any problem making this stitch pattern. It is very simple to make. All you need to know is how to knit and purl.
What Is the Moss Stitch?
The moss knitting stitch is a common stitch used to create texture. It is an easy stitch that creates a reversible fabric that lays flat. If you are looking for an easy knitting stitch that creates a lot of texture, you will enjoy making the moss knit stitch. It is one of the easiest textured knitting stitches there is.
When is the Moss Knitting Stitch Used?
The moss stitch in knitting can be found in a wide variety of projects. The stitch creates a lot of texture and visual interest.
The moss knit stitch is often used when making:
- Cardigans
- Shawls
- Blankets
- Scarves
- Cowls
- Hats
- Headbands
- Dishcloths
- and More
What is the Difference Between the Seed Stitch and Moss Stitch in Knitting?
The US seed stitch and US moss knit stitch are similar. When making the seed stitch, you alternate every nit stitch and purl stitch every row.
When you turn your work, you purl into a knit stitch and knit into a purl stitch. When making the moss knit stitch, you alternate 2 knits with 2 purls. You can check our Seed Stitch Knitting Tutorial here.
How to Knit the Moss Stitch
Easy Step-by-Step moss stitch knitting Instructions
If you know how to knit and purl, you can make the moss knit stitch. The most important thing you need to remember is to alternate between the two stitches.
Follow the step-by-step instructions below to learn how to knit the Moss knit Stitch:
1. Cast on an even number of stitches.
2. Turn your work.
3. Take your yarn to the back and Knit 1.
4. Bring your yarn up front and purl 1.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until you reach the end of the row.
6. Turn your work.
7. Repeat steps 3-4 until you reach the end of the row.
8. Turn your work.
9. Bring your yarn up front and purl 1.
10. Take your yarn to the back and Knit 1.
11. Repeat steps 9-10 until you reach the end of the row.
12. Turn your work.
13. Bring your yarn up front and purl 1.
14. Take your yarn to the back and Knit 1.
15. Repeat steps 9-10 until you reach the end of the row.
16. Continue repeating steps 3-10 until you reach your desired length.
Tips for Making the Moss Knitting Stitch
The stitch is very similar to the seed stitch. Because of this, we often come across the same issues. Below are a few tips for making the perfect stitch.
- Accidental Yarn Overs
Knitters new to the seed stitch often come across accidental yarn overs. This is very common. To prevent accidental yarn overs, always remember to bring the working yarn to the front of your project before purling.
- The Stitch Looks Like Ribbing
If your moss knit stitch starts to look like long ribbing, you are not changing your pattern. Remember the pattern changes every other row. The ribbing is caused by stacking knits and purls on top of each other. When making the stitch, you should only be standing 2 knits and 2 purls on top of each other at a time.
How to recognize each stitch:
Purl Stitch:
The purl stitch creates a small bump reminiscent of a purl.
Knit Stitch:
The knit stitch creates a stitch that is flat and looks like a V.
- Starting With an Odd or Even Number of Stitches
When making thestitch, it is essential that the stitches alternate between every other row. When working on a project, many people find it easier to start with an even number of stitches. But you do not have to. Below are examples of starting with an even number and an odd number of stitches.
Examples:
Cast on an Even Number of Stitches
Row 1: [knit 1, purl 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Row 2: [knit 1, purl 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Row 3: [purl 1, knit 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Row 4: [purl 1, knit 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Repeat rows 1-4 until you reach the desired length.
Cast on an Odd Number of Stitches
Row 1: [knit 1, purl 1, knit 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Row 2: [knit 1, purl 1, knit 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Row 2: [purl 1, knit 1, purl 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Row 2: [purl 1, knit 1, purl 1], repeat to the end of the row.
Repeat rows 1-4 until you reach the desired length.
I hope my moss stitch tutorial was easy for you to understand
And now that you have practiced the US moss knit stitch, get busy working on a pattern. Or check out more stitch tutorial below:
- Basket Weave Stitch Knitting Tutorial
- Knitting Bobble Stitch
- Garter Stitch Tutorial
- How to knit tutorials
You can also go Facebook Page to see a roundup of all sorts of fun things to make. Time to bring out the yarn and hook and prepare for a day of knitting using the moss stitch.