If you love texture that’s subtle, squishy, and endlessly versatile, the moss stitch (sometimes called the granite stitch) should be in your crochet toolkit. It’s a simple, rhythmic pattern that creates a woven‑looking fabric — great for blankets, scarves, washcloths, bags, and more. Best of all? It only uses two basic stitches, so it’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxing, repetitive stitch pattern.

In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to crochet the moss stitch, how it works, what makes it great, and a few ideas for projects you can use it in.

What Is the Moss Stitch?

The moss stitch is a classic stitch pattern made by alternating single crochet (sc) and chain (ch) stitches in a specific rhythm. The result is a fabric that looks kind of like tiny squares woven together — dense, squishy, and incredibly tactile.

Because it’s worked with short stitches and chains, it doesn’t create large holes (like lace stitches do), but it still has an open, inviting texture that’s lighter than plain single crochet fabric.

What You’ll Need

To crochet the moss stitch, you’ll need:

• Yarn — worsted weight (#4) is a great starting point, but you can use lighter or bulkier yarn for different effects
  
  

• Crochet hook — follow your yarn label (a slightly larger hook gives a looser, more flexible fabric)
  
  

• Scissors
  
  

• Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
  
  

No special skills or fancy stitches needed — this is a great pattern to practice your rhythm and tension!

Abbreviations (US Terms)

Before we get into the pattern:

• ch = chain
  
  

• sc = single crochet
  
  

• st(s) = stitch(es)
  
  

How to Crochet the Moss Stitch

Here’s the classic way to build the moss stitch step by step:

Step 1 — Make a Foundation Chain

Start by chaining an odd number of chains. This pattern works best when your starting chain is odd, because each repeat uses a chain + single crochet sequence.

Example foundation: ch 21 (or any odd number you prefer).

Step 2 — Row 1 (Foundation Row)

• Starting in the second chain from the hook, work 1 sc.
  
  

• Skip 1 chain, then ch 1, sc in the next chain.
  
  

• Repeat ch 1, sc in next chain across the entire row.
  
  

• Turn your work.

You’ll end with a row of alternating single crochets and chain spaces — this sets up the moss pattern beautifully.

Step 3 — Row 2

• Ch 1 (this counts as your turning chain).
  
  

• Sc into the first chain‑1 space (the little gap from the prior row), ch 1.
  
  

• Repeat sc into next chain‑1 space, ch 1 across the row.
  
  

• End with a single crochet in the top of your turning chain.
  
  

• Turn.

Repeat Row 2

Continue repeating Row 2 (sc in each chain‑1 space, ch 1) until your piece is as tall as you want.

This two‑line rhythm — sc, ch — is what gives the moss stitch its signature texture.

Why the Moss Stitch Is So Great

• Simple but textured — it’s easy enough for beginners, but gives more visual interest than plain sc fabric.
  
  

• Dense and warm — the fill is great for blankets and winter accessories.
  
  

• Pattern forgiving — because every stitch builds on a gap from the previous row, it’s easy to spot if you go off rhythm and fix it quickly.
  
  

• Relaxing repeat — once you get the rhythm, it’s almost meditative and perfect for long crochet sessions.
  
  

Project Ideas Using the Moss Stitch

The beauty of the moss stitch is its versatility! Here are some fun ways to use it:

• Blankets & Throws — the dense, textured fabric makes a cozy snuggle layer.
  
  

• Scarves & Cowls — warm yet flexible with lovely drape.
  
  

• Washcloths & Dishcloths — textured surface offers gentle scrubbing power.
  
  

• Bags & Totes — sturdy texture helps the bag hold shape.
  
  

• Hat Brims — add a moss stitch band for extra interest and stretch.
  
  

Because it’s worked in small, rhythmic steps, the moss stitch is also ideal for stash‑busting — join yarn colors in stripes for fun color play.

Final Stitch 

Now you know exactly how to crochet the moss stitch! It’s a beautiful blend of texture and simplicity — easy enough to learn quickly, but rich enough to make your projects feel intentional and tactile.

Grab your favorite yarn, chain up an odd number, and let the moss stitch rhythm take you away. Your next cozy creation is just a few sc + ch repeats away!