Basic Stitches

Double Moss Stitch

About this stitch

Rows 1 and 4: *k2, p2; rep from *. Rows 2 and 3: *p2, k2; rep from *. A wider, more plush version of moss; excellent on blankets and scarves.

A reliable ground stitch for sweaters, blankets, scarves, and the body of any project where the focus is on yarn or shape rather than stitch pattern.

Stitch chart

Read RS rows right-to-left, WS rows left-to-right. The bottom-right cell is row 1, stitch 1.

4321
knit on RS, purl on WS
purl on RS, knit on WS

How to read a knitting chart →

Row-by-row written instructions

  1. Cast on a multiple of 2 stitches (any number works for stockinette and garter).
  2. Row 1 (RS): See description.
  3. Row 2 (WS): See description.
  4. Repeat Rows 1–2 for pattern.

Abbreviations used

  • k knit
  • p purl
  • sl slip purlwise
  • wyif with yarn in front
  • wyib with yarn in back

Full knitting abbreviations glossary →

Knitter's tips

  • Block your swatch before measuring final gauge — wet-blocking changes most fabrics by 5–10%.
  • Slip the first stitch of every row purlwise with yarn in front for a tidy chain edge.

Recommended materials

This stitch is most flattering in Worsted-weight yarn on 7 (4.5 mm) needles, at a working gauge near 20 stitches and 30 rows over four inches in stockinette. Open the yarn weight reference or the needle conversion chart for substitutions.

Related stitches