How To Knit Seed Stitch
Learn the knits and purls of the seed stitch -- one of the most popular stitches in knitting!
Learning how to knit the seed stitch is one of the first stitches that most beginner knitters will learn. The distinctive, bumpy look to the knit is what earns it its name, as it resembles little seeds. This stitch is not only simple but very popular for the texture and versatility.
There are very few patterns that a seed stitch would not work on. From knitted decor to sweaters, scarves, and cowls, the seed stitch is truly one of the most universal stitches out there for knitters to utilize. Once you've mastered the knit and purl, this is your next project.
Try a dishcloth in seed stitch with some cotton yarn, or knit an entire scarf! You might also see seed stitch squeezed between cable rows or as a textured decoration on more complicated stitches and patterns. Even when you've moved on to more complicated knitting patterns, the seed stitch will still show up every now and then, and knowing the mechanics of this beloved stitch will help you whip up those projects with ease.
Watch and Learn
How to Knit Seed Stitch
How to Knit Seed Stitch in the Round
- CO an even number of sts. Join in the round.
- Rnd 1 (RS): * K1, p1, repeat from * to end of row
- Rnd 2 (WS): * P1, k1, repeat from * to end of row
- Repeat rows 1 and 2 until your seed stitch swatch has reached the desired length; bind off.
Seed Stitch FAQs
What's the difference between seed stitch and moss stitch?
In the UK, there is no difference between seed stitch and moss stitch. These terms can be used interchangeably; however, moss stitch is the more common term. In the US, moss stitch refers to a slightly different stitch; this stitch is also sometimes called double seed stitch in the UK.
Does seed stitch curl?
Unlike stockinette stitch, seed stitch does not curl! This is because there's a very even balance of knit and purl stitches throughout seed stitch fabric. In stockinette, all of your stitches are facing the same direction, which means the natural push and pull of the stitches has a big effect on the overall fabric, causing it to curve and curl in the same way. Because seed stitch has these stitches evenly reversed, you do not get that curling effect.
How much yarn does seed stitch use?
In terms of yarn consumption, seed stitch is comparable to garter stitch. The bumpy, textured fabric of seed stitch creates a thicker fabric overall, so it will use more yarn than stockinette stitch will, but it probably won't be a noticeable amount, unless you're knitting something very large, like a sweater or a blanket.
How do you decrease seed stitch?
In order to decrease seed stitch in a way that keeps the pattern looking clean and the knit and purl stitches aligned in their checkerboard pattern, it's important to decrease in even numbers.
Here's the method we recommend for decreasing or reducing seed stitch:
- Work up to the point where you want to decrease, and then identify a knit stitch in your pattern; this knit stitch is where the decreasing will begin.
- Work a knit 2 together.
- Then immediately work a purl 2 together.
- Continue in pattern.
What stitches are similar to seed stitch?
If you like the look of seed stitch but want to switch things up a bit, we have a few patterns you can try for your next project that are similar in texture and aesthetic to seed stitch! Check out their video tutorials here:
Can you crochet seed stitch?
You sure can! Our friends at AllFreeCrochet have a handy tutorial for this fun crocheted technique. Check it out here:
Up Next:
More Seed Stitch Knitting Patterns
What's your favorite pattern using seed stitch?
Let us know in the comments!
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Mark
Apr 03, 2018
Such a great, simple tutorial. And I love the look of this, especially for a nice textured design feature
mulberrygalprinces s
Mar 16, 2018
I use to knit all the time. But then I fell and broke my wrist. So I got into crochet. Now I want to make up a few knit things but my memory needs some jogging. Thus is absolutely what I needed. It's so easy to follow. Thank you so much.
craftedbyfox
Feb 27, 2017
A fab tutorial for beginners looking to learn new stitches, the instructions are really clear. It takes slightly longer to knit in seed stitch but I love the finish of it and for some patterns I think it is worth taking the extra time. There are plenty of patterns on this site which use seed stitch so you can put your new skills to the test.
miriamgrosh 058060 5
Jan 09, 2017
I love this tutorial. It is very easy to understand, how to do it.
ashleroo
Dec 20, 2016
This is an absolutely wonderful tutorial for beginners! I had alway admired the seed stitch and this video made it very easy to understand. I can definitely see myself coming back to reference this in the future.
The Designing Peng uin
Aug 25, 2016
another excellent tutorial for beginners. Where were you when I started knitting? Certainly helping my eleven-year-old and thirteen-year-old (she appreciates the left-handed purling tutorial too.)
Sara R
Aug 19, 2016
This was really helpful! I just started knitting and I've learn the knit stitch and how to purl, so I'm looking for a new pattern to try. I love how the seed stitch looks with a chunky yarn!
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