Moss Stitch Crochet Cowl Pattern for Beginners

The moss stitch (also called linen stitch or granite stitch) gives crochet a tight, woven look that's both modern and classic. This moss stitch crochet cowl pattern is a relaxing, repetitive project – ideal if you want to learn a new stitch without any stress.

You only need two stitches: the chain and the single crochet.

Why You'll Love This Crochet Cowl

Just two stitches – chain and single crochet.
Beautiful woven texture that doesn't curl.
No seams – it's worked in the round.
Easy to wear – no ends flapping in the wind.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch – chain
sl st – slip stitch
sc – single crochet
ch-1 sp – the space under a ch 1.

Size and Gauge

Finished size: about 60 cm around × 25 cm tall.
Gauge: 16 stitches (sc and ch together) and 18 rounds = 10 cm.

How to Crochet the Moss Stitch

Moss stitch is just (sc, ch 1) repeated. On each new round, you work your sc into the ch-1 space below, not into the sc. This staggers the stitches like bricks.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Foundation

Ch 120. Lay the chain flat and make sure it's not twisted. Join with a sl st into the first chain to make a ring.

Round 1

Ch 1, sc in the next ch, ch 1, skip 1 ch. Repeat from * around. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (60 sc and 60 ch-1 spaces)

Round 2

Sl st into the first ch-1 space. Ch 1, sc in the ch-1 space, ch 1, skip the next sc. Repeat from * around. Join.

Repeat

Repeat Round 2 until the cowl measures 25 cm tall – about 45 rounds.

Edging

Work 1 round of sc along the top edge (1 sc in each sc and each ch-1 space). Fasten off. Join yarn on the bottom edge and repeat. Weave in all ends.

Beginner tip: worried about twisting the chain? Work the cowl flat instead, in rows, turning at the end of each row. When it's 60 cm long, sew the short ends together.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

My cowl has a twist in it. The foundation chain twisted when joining. Unfortunately you'll need to start again – or make it an infinity scarf and call it a feature!
The texture looks like columns, not bricks. Make sure you're working into the ch-1 space, not the sc.
The cowl is too tight. Use a larger hook for the foundation chain only.

How to Care for Your Cowl

Hand wash in cool water, gently squeeze out the water (don't wring) and dry flat.

FAQ

What is the difference between moss stitch and linen stitch in crochet?

They're the same stitch! It's also called granite stitch or woven stitch. It's a pattern of (sc, ch 1) with each sc worked into the space below.

Is moss stitch good for beginners?

Yes. It uses only chains and single crochet, and the repeat is just two steps.

How much yarn do I need for a crochet cowl?

About 200 m of aran weight yarn for this cowl. Moss stitch uses a little more yarn than plain rows because it's so dense.

Stay warm with more free crochet scarf and cowl patterns, like the Easy Ribbed Crochet Scarf.