At some point you know single crochet, slip stitch and double crochet by heart, and you start looking for something with more texture. Moss stitch and waffle stitch are a logical next step: both build on stitches you already know, but the result looks completely different from a flat panel of single crochet. In this article we explain both stitches step by step, and when to choose which.
This article uses US crochet terms. In UK terms, single crochet (sc) is a double crochet and double crochet (dc) is a treble. Moss stitch is also known as granite stitch or linen stitch.
Before you start
- Are you comfortable with the basic stitches, or would you like a quick refresher first?
- Are you looking for a dense, firm texture (moss stitch) or a bold raised grid (waffle stitch)?
- Are you making a flat project like a potholder or bag, or something bigger like a blanket?
Moss stitch vs waffle stitch at a glance
| Stitch | Texture | Level | Great for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waffle stitch | Deep grid of raised ridges | Intermediate | Blankets, cushions, bags |
| Moss stitch | Fine, woven-looking, dense and firm | Beginner to intermediate | Potholders, bags, scarves |
What is moss stitch and how do you crochet it
Moss stitch is one of the densest and firmest stitch patterns you can make with only single crochet and chains. You work single crochets with a chain between them, and in every row you place your single crochets into the chain spaces of the row below. That offset creates the fine, woven texture.
- Chain an even number of stitches.
- Row 1: sc in the 4th chain from your hook, *ch 1, skip the next chain, sc in the next chain*. Repeat from * to the end of the row.
- Row 2: ch 2 (counts as 1 sc + ch 1), turn. Skip the first sc and sc into the next ch-1 space, *ch 1, skip the next sc, sc into the next ch-1 space*. Repeat from * across, working the last sc into the turning space at the end of the row.
- Repeat row 2 until your piece is the size you want.
Because the fabric is so dense, moss stitch is ideal for projects that need to take some wear, such as a potholder or the base of a bag.
What is waffle stitch and how do you crochet it
Waffle stitch gets its name from the grid of raised squares it creates, just like the pattern of a waffle iron. The effect comes from front post double crochet (FPdc): instead of working into the top two loops of the stitch below, you work the double crochet around the post of that stitch, from the front.
- Start with a foundation row of regular double crochet.
- On the next row, alternate front post double crochets with regular double crochets in a fixed sequence, so the raised stitches form columns.
- On the following row, swap them over: work regular double crochet into the raised stitches, and front post double crochet around the stitches that were flat. That way the raised stitches build up into a grid with deep square pockets.
- Repeat these two rows. Count your stitches every row, so you always have the same number as in your foundation row.
Because the post stitches are slightly longer, waffle stitch uses more yarn than a panel of regular double crochet. It works best with a smooth yarn that shows off the texture rather than one so fine that the texture disappears.
Which yarn suits these stitches best
Both stitches stand out because of their texture, and that shows up best in a smooth, firm cotton in a solid colour where you can clearly see the stitches. A tightly spun cotton such as Durable Coral is a good choice. A variegated yarn or a fuzzy yarn like mohair hides the texture, so it's better not to use those for these stitches.
Uses: from potholder to blanket
Thanks to its firmness, moss stitch is one of the nicest stitches to start with when you want to try something new: think potholders, coasters or the base of a bag. Waffle stitch really comes into its own on larger surfaces, such as a block in a patchwork blanket or a decorative cushion. It also works surprisingly well as separate blocks alongside granny squares, or as the main stitch of a crochet baby blanket with a soft, chunky feel.
FAQ about moss stitch and waffle stitch
Is waffle stitch hard to learn?
Not if you've worked post stitches before. The biggest challenge is keeping track of which stitch comes next, so count along calmly while you crochet at first.
What's the difference between moss stitch and a panel of single crochet?
A panel of only single crochet is flatter and more tightly packed. Moss stitch alternates single crochet and chains, which creates tiny gaps and a fine, woven texture you'll recognise immediately.
How much more yarn does waffle stitch use than regular double crochet?
Count on a bit more yarn than for a panel of regular double crochet, because the post stitches are slightly longer. For an average project, an extra ball on hand is usually enough to cover the difference.
Can I combine moss stitch and waffle stitch in one project?
Definitely, for example as alternating blocks in a patchwork blanket, or as a border around a panel in the other stitch. Keep in mind that the two stitches can give a slightly different tension, so make a swatch before you join them.
What hook size should I use for moss stitch?
Follow the recommended size on the ball band. Because moss stitch is already quite dense, you can go half a size up for a slightly softer result.
Get started
Moss stitch and waffle stitch are both easy to learn with stitches you already know, and they instantly give a project a different character from plain single or double crochet. Start with a swatch, see which stitch suits your project, and build from there. Wondering whether knitting would give you a similar texture? Our knitting vs crochet comparison explains the difference.
