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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 Wet-Block & Steam-Block Granny Squares Like a Pro
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!