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Whether you call it the moss stitch, linen stitch, or granite stitch, this simple alternation of single crochet and chain-1 spaces produces one of the sleekest, most modern fabrics in crochet! It lies 100% flat with zero curling, looks identical on both sides, and turns color changes into crisp interlocking houndstooth teeth.
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Tutorial
- Woven, Knit-Like Drape: Zero bulk and zero stiffness — ideal for scarves, dishcloths, and lightweight baby blankets.
- Mindless TV Crochet: Once Row 2 is established, you work exclusively into big, easy-to-feel ch-1 spaces without squinting at stitch tops!
- Completely Reversible: Both sides look equally neat.
Materials & Yarn Tips
For crisp stitch definition that is easy on your hands, pair Category 4 Worsted Cotton (Sage Green & Cream) with an ergonomic 5.0 mm (US H-8) hook. If you are substituting from your stash, check our Crochet Yarn Weight Chart and Hook Size Conversion Guide so your finished gauge stays right on target.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Chain an Even Number of Stitches
Chain any even number (try 24 chains for a coaster). Work 1 single crochet into the 4th chain from your hook, then *ch 1, skip 1 ch, sc in next ch* all the way across.
Step 2: Work Into the Chain-1 Spaces on Every Row
Chain 2 and turn. Skip the first sc, work 1 sc directly into the first ch-1 space, then *ch 1, sc in next ch-1 space* across, ending your row with 1 sc into the ch-2 turning space!
Use a hook 0.5 mm larger than usual if you are a tight crocheter so your chain-1 spaces stay relaxed and drape softly.
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Finishing & Blocking Advice
Once your final stitch is fastened off, thread your yarn tail onto a blunt tapestry needle and weave it securely back and forth in three directions through the back of matching stitches. Pinning your finished piece to measurements on a foam mat with a light mist of water (or gentle hover-steam for acrylic) relaxes every loop so corners sit crisp and professional!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I chain an odd or even number for moss stitch?
Always chain an EVEN number for moss stitch when starting in the 4th chain from the hook!
How to Crochet the Moss Stitch (Linen & Granite Stitch Tutorial)
Learn the woven-look crochet moss stitch (linen stitch) — reversible, curl-free, and stunning in two-color stripes!
Materials
Tools
- 5.0 mm (US H-8) crochet hook
- Scissors & yarn needle
Abbreviations (US Terms)
Instructions
- Row 1: With Sage, ch 32 (any even number). Sc in 4th ch from hook (skipped 3 chs count as sc + ch-1 sp), *ch 1, sk next ch, sc in next ch; repeat from * to end. Ch 2, turn.
- Row 2: Sc in first ch-1 sp, *ch 1, sk next sc, sc in next ch-1 sp; repeat from * across, ending with last sc in beg ch-3 turning sp. Ch 2, turn.
- Rows 3–30: Repeat Row 2, working 1 sc in each ch-1 sp and ending in the ch-2 turning sp! Switch between Sage and Cream every 2 rows for woven stripes.
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- Carry your second yarn color loosely up the side edge if you plan to add a single crochet border around the cloth afterward.
Sage green and cream in moss stitch is perfection. I'm making a whole temperature blanket in this stitch!
Moss stitch is THE best stitch for temperature blankets because the rows stay compact so your blanket won't end up 11 feet long!