The moss stitch in crochet, also called the linen or granite stitch, alternates single crochet stitches with chain-1 spaces and works each new row into the spaces of the one below. It makes a solid, woven-looking fabric with a flexible drape, and it’s easy if you can chain and single crochet.
If you’ve ever admired a scarf or blanket with a quiet, woven texture, it was probably made in the moss stitch. It looks like something advanced, but it only uses the chain and the single crochet.
This guide explains what the moss stitch is, gives you a simple written pattern, shows why patterns sometimes disagree and helps you choose the best projects for it. New to reading patterns? Our guide on how to read crochet patterns makes them much easier, and our free crochet calculators and tools can help as you go.
Key takeaways
- The moss stitch alternates single crochet and chain-1 spaces.
- It’s also called the linen or granite stitch.
- It’s reversible, and the texture is the same on both sides.
- Rows are shallow, so big projects take longer.
- Patterns differ on the foundation chain and row starts. Always swatch first.
What Is the Moss Stitch in Crochet?
Short answer: The moss stitch is a textured crochet stitch made by alternating single crochet stitches and chain-1 spaces. Each new row’s single crochets go into the chain spaces of the row before.
Because every stitch sits in the gap of the row below, the fabric looks woven. It’s solid, but lighter than a field of plain single crochet, and it stays flexible.
Names and look-alikes
| Name | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Moss stitch | Single crochet and chain-1 spaces (the classic version) |
| Linen stitch | Usually the same stitch |
| Granite stitch | Usually the same stitch |
| Woven stitch | Another name for the same look |
| Even moss stitch | A different version using slip stitches and half double crochet |
| Double crochet moss stitch | A taller version, also called the extended moss stitch |
Knitting has a moss stitch too. It uses knit and purl stitches in a different pattern. The crochet version only looks similar. Curious how the two crafts compare? Read knitting vs crocheting.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Looks complex but is easy to make | Shallow rows make big projects slower |
| Reversible woven texture | Edges need careful attention |
| Flexible drape and good structure | Can feel stiff if worked tightly |
| Great for stripes | Patterns use slightly different counts |
How to Crochet the Moss Stitch (Written Pattern)
This is the most common version, in US terms. If abbreviations like sc and ch are new to you, check our crochet abbreviations glossary. Make a practice swatch first.
You’ll need: smooth worsted weight yarn and a 5 mm (H-8) hook. Not sure which yarn to pick? See our guide to the best yarn for crochet projects.
Foundation: Chain an even number (need a refresher? See how to start a crochet chain). Try 20 for a swatch.
Row 1: Single crochet in the 4th chain from the hook (the skipped chains count as your first single crochet and chain-1 space). Chain 1, skip the next chain, single crochet in the next chain. Repeat across, ending with a single crochet in the last chain. Turn.
Row 2: Chain 2 (this counts as the chain-1 space). Single crochet in the first chain-1 space. Chain 1, skip the next single crochet, single crochet in the next chain-1 space. Repeat across, ending with a single crochet in the last chain space. Turn.
Repeat Row 2 until you reach the length you want.
How it works, in plain words
The rhythm is stitch, chain, skip, stitch. On each new row, tuck your single crochet into the gap made by the chain below. That shift creates the woven look. Stuck on a line in your pattern? Paste it into our Pattern Decoder to read it in plain English.
How to moss stitch in UK terms
In UK terms, “double crochet” means what US crocheters call single crochet. The moves are the same, so a UK pattern might say double crochet and chain 1 where a US one says single crochet and chain 1. Not sure which system your pattern uses? Our free US/UK Terms Converter will tell you, and you’ll find more helpers on our Crochet Tools page.
Why do moss stitch patterns disagree?
| Version | Foundation | First stitch | Row start | Repeat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| This guide | Even number | 4th chain from hook | Chain 2 counts as a stitch and a space | One row |
| Edge-stitch version | Even number | 2nd chain from hook | Chain 1 doesn’t count; single crochet at both edges | Two rows |
| Granite version | Odd number | Row of single crochet first | Chain 1 | One row |
| UK-term version | Multiple of 2 plus 1 | 3rd chain from hook | Chain 2 counts as a stitch and a space | One row |
Each version works. The difference is how the designer handles the turning chain and edges. Whichever you pick, follow that pattern’s notes all the way through.
Tip: start with a row of single crochet if you want a clean edge for a border.
Tips for Yarn, Hook and Gauge
- Choose smooth yarn. It shows the chain spaces and the texture.
- Use the hook on your yarn label. If the fabric feels stiff, go up a hook size. Switch between mm, US and UK sizes with the hook size converter.
- Swatch first. Moss stitch gauge can differ from plain single crochet. Work out your stitches and rows per inch with the gauge calculator.
- Expect slow rows. The fabric grows more slowly, so allow extra time.
- Use a stitch marker at the edge to find the first and last space.
For project yardage, try our Crochet Yarn Calculator or read how much yarn you need for a blanket. Planning a bigger make? The Crochet Project Planner gives you a printable checklist.
Moss Stitch Stripes and Working in the Round
Stripes: the moss stitch looks great in color changes. A common approach is to change color after every two rows for crisp bands.
In the round: yes, you can work the moss stitch in the round for hats, bags and cowls. The stitch counts and how rounds begin depend on the pattern, so follow your pattern’s notes and mark the start of each round.
Best Projects for the Moss Stitch
- Scarves and cowls. The reversible texture looks good on both sides.
- Blankets. A soft, flexible drape, lovely in stripes.
- Washcloths and dishcloths. The sturdy texture scrubs well.
- Bags and pouches. It holds its shape.
- Hats and headbands. Simple but stylish.
- Garments. A good choice for tops and cardigans that need structure with drape.
Looking for inspiration? See our crochet newborn blanket patterns, try the easy crochet baby blanket pattern or browse all our free crochet patterns. Planning to sell your finished pieces? Work out a fair price with the Crochet Pricing Calculator.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
| Problem | Why it happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Edges get narrower | Missing the last stitch | Mark the end space and count each row |
| Edges flare out | Adding extra stitches | Count the spaces, not only the stitches |
| Fabric is too tight | Hook or tension is small | Go up a hook size |
| Lost count | Skipping the wrong stitch | Make sure each single crochet is in a chain space |
| Pattern doesn’t match | US vs UK terms | Check the pattern notes and the US/UK converter |
| Starting chain doesn’t work | The pattern uses a different foundation | Follow your pattern’s multiple |
Left-Handed Moss Stitch
The stitch works the same, but mirrored. Hold the hook in your left hand and follow a right-handed tutorial in a mirror, or look for a left-handed video. Not sure how to hold your hook? Our guide on how to hold a crochet hook shows the main grips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moss stitch in crochet?
It’s a textured stitch made by alternating single crochet stitches with chain-1 spaces, working into the spaces of the previous row. It creates a woven look.
How do you crochet the moss stitch?
Chain an even number, single crochet in the 4th chain from the hook, then chain 1, skip a chain and single crochet. On later rows, chain 2, then single crochet into each chain-1 space.
What does “how to moss stitch” mean in crochet?
It means the same thing: how to work the crochet moss stitch. Don’t confuse it with knitting’s moss stitch, which is a different pattern.
Is the moss stitch the same as the linen stitch?
Usually, yes. Moss, linen and granite stitch often describe the same pattern, but check your pattern’s notes.
Is the moss stitch good for beginners?
Yes. If you can chain and single crochet, you can do it. The edges take a little care.
How many chains do I need for the moss stitch?
Most patterns use an even number. Some use an odd number or a multiple of 2 plus 1, so follow your pattern.
Is the moss stitch reversible?
Yes. Both sides look similar, so it suits scarves and blankets.
Is the moss stitch dense or drapey?
It’s solid but flexible. It’s lighter than all single crochet, and a bigger hook gives more drape.
Can I work the moss stitch in the round?
Yes, for hats, bags and cowls. Follow your pattern’s notes for the round.
Free Crochet Tools for Your Moss Stitch Project
These free helpers from our Crochet Tools page make a moss stitch project easier. They run in your browser, with no signup.
- Gauge Calculator turns your swatch into stitches and rows per inch.
- Yarn Calculator estimates how many yards your scarf, blanket or bag needs.
- Hook Size Converter converts hook sizes between mm, US and UK.
- Pattern Decoder turns a pattern line into plain English.
- US/UK Terms Converter shows whether your pattern uses US or UK terms.
- Abbreviations Glossary explains 47 common crochet abbreviations.
- Project Planner gives you a checklist and printable summary.
- Pricing Calculator helps you price handmade pieces.
More Crochet Guides to Read Next
- How to read crochet patterns so every row makes sense.
- 6 basic crochet stitches for beginners to build a strong foundation.
- How to crochet for absolute beginners if you’re just starting out.
- Best yarn for crochet projects to pick the right fiber.
- How to hold a crochet hook for comfortable stitching.
- How much yarn you need for a blanket before you buy.
Final Thoughts
The moss stitch gives a handmade, woven look from simple moves: chain, skip, single crochet, repeat. Start with a small swatch, watch your edges and choose a project that suits its texture.
New to crochet? Learn how to start a crochet chain first, then explore our beginner crochet tutorials. Ready for more? Try our 6 basic crochet stitches for beginners, learn how to double crochet or follow how to crochet for absolute beginners.
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Instructions were cross-checked against several published tutorials. Versions differ, so always swatch and follow your pattern’s notes.