How to Knit the Moss Stitch
Instructions for knitting flat.
This is the way I like to knit this stitch, it is known as both the Moss Stitch and the Seed Stitch.
This stitch pattern will include a few variations of this stitch with different edge stitches.
Terms:
k = knit p = purl sl = slip sl1 wyib = slip one stitch with the yarn in back of the work
sl1 wyif = slip on stitch with the yarn in front of work sts = stitches rep = repeat
Terms & Abbreviations are explained at the end of this post.
Moss Stitch: Multiple of 2 +1
Not a big difference between right and wrong side.
But slight difference between right edge and left edge of work.
Pattern is one row, repeated until desired length is reached.
Start Pattern:
Row 1: sl1, *p1, k1; rep from * to end.
Repeat this row until desired length is reached.
When slipping the first stitch, slip the stitch as if you are going to knit it, with the yarn in back.
Moss Stitch with the Slip Stitch Selvedge: Multiple of 2 +1
Both sides look the same
Pattern is one row, repeated until desired length is reached.
Start Pattern:
Row 1: sl1, *p1, k1; rep from * to end.
Repeat this row until desired length is reached.
Slip the first stitch purlwise with the yarn in front.
Moss Stitch with the Double Selvedge: Multiple of 2
Both sides look the same
Pattern is two rows, repeated until desired length is reached.
Start Pattern:
Row 1: sl1 wyib, k1 *p1, k1; rep from * to last 2 sts, sl1 wyib, p1.
Row 2: sl1 wyib, p1 *k1, p1; rep from * to last 2 sts, sl1 wyif, p1.
Repeat these 2 rows until desired length is reached.
I am not sure which of these edges I like best, I have always used the one from the first stitch pattern, pictured above and find that I like how easy the slip stitch edge is. After learning these other two selvedges I find that I like the look of the middle stitch pictured below, the slip knit selvedge, I can see myself using that one in the future a lot. I can’t wait to add these selvedges in my new knit projects, all three are super easy to do and make a great finishing touch for the edge of your knit work.
I have a few patterns that I have designed using the moss stitch, I think this is one of my favorite stitches, this may be why I have so many patterns that use it.



Thanks for checking out my post, I hope you give this stitch a try, it is such a great textured stitch. If you post anything that you make from this stitch and share on social media, please tag me @savlabot and let me know how it went 🙂
Want to use the same yarn and supplies?
Use the links below to purchase everything you need.