How to Crochet the Moss Stitch (Linen Stitch): Free Beginner Tutorial & Blanket Pattern
Discover why the moss stitch (also known as the linen or granite stitch) is the most beloved beginner crochet texture! Combining single crochet and chain spaces, it delivers an ultra-smooth, woven drape that never curls.
Pattern Inspiration & Design Notes
Whether you are decorating your home for the autumn season or crafting gifts for friends, this pattern was designed from the ground up for relaxation and clean, crisp stitch definition.
One of the most common frustrations in crochet is vague sizing or running out of yarn right at the final row. That is why every stitch in this tutorial has been physically crocheted, swatch-tested, and audited with our designated 5.5 mm (US I/9) hook.
How to Crochet the Moss Stitch (Linen Stitch): Free Beginner Tutorial & Blanket Pattern
Original Pattern by easycrochetdrop • crochetpatterndrop StudioMaterials Checklist(Click to check off supplies)
0 / 5 ReadyGauge & Tension Calibration
Standard Swatch: 18 sts (9 sc + 9 ch-1 sp) x 16 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) using Moss Stitch Pattern (sc, ch 1) with your designated 5.5 mm (US I/9) hook.
Important Pattern Notes
- Simple Sequence: The moss stitch is simply alternating (1 sc, ch 1) across the row.
- Hook Placement: You never crochet into the top loops of single crochets! You always work your sc directly into the chain-1 spaces from the row below.
- Even Starting Chain: Always start with an EVEN number of chains.
- Completely Reversible: The fabric looks 100% identical on both sides with clean, vertical woven lines.
- Zero Edge Curling: Unlike single crochet or stockinette, the moss stitch lies completely flat right off the hook.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Foundation Chain & Row 1 Setup
Chain 26 loosely with your 5.5mm hook (any even number works).
Row 1: Starting in the 4th chain from the hook, work 1 sc. (The 3 skipped chains count as 1 sc + ch 1).
*Ch 1, skip the next chain, work 1 sc in the next chain; repeat from * across to the end of the chain.
Ch 2, turn. Count your stitches: you should have 12 single crochets and 12 chain-1 spaces.
Row 2 (Working into Chain Spaces)
Skip the very first sc stitch at the base of the chain.
Row 2: Work 1 sc directly into the first chain-1 space.
*Ch 1, skip next sc, work 1 sc into the next chain-1 space; repeat from * across the row.
Work the final sc of the row directly into the space created by the turning ch-2 from Row 1. Ch 2, turn.
Row Repeats & Straight Border Edges
Rows 3+: Repeat Row 2 continuously. Each row begins with ch 2, turn, skip 1st sc, sc in 1st ch-sp, and ends with sc in the turning-chain space.
To change colors for modern gingham or stripes, pull the new color through on the final yarn-over of the last sc in the row.
When finished, ch 1, cut yarn leaving a 6-inch tail, and weave in ends with a blunt needle.
Tag @stitchandpetal on Instagram so we can share your finished make!
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common gauge, yarn weight, and technique inquiries
The most common beginner mistake is missing the final stitch of the row, which must be worked into the turning-chain-2 space. Placing a stitch marker in the turning chain ensures you never skip it!
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