Tumbling Moss Block Knit Stitch

tumbling moss stitch pattern worked on a stitch multiple of 10 and a row repeat of 2o

by Janice Jones, Certified Knitting Instructor (CYC),  Published March 23, 2026

Tumbling Moss Block Knit Stitch uses only knits and purls to create squares that look like tumbling blocks, with a beautiful texture that appears the same on both sides of the fabric. It is created with a stitch multiple of 10 and a row repeat of 20 rows.

If you look closely at the fabric, you will see an interlocking pattern of parallelograms worked in garter, stockinette stitch, and seed stitch.   

Since this stitch is reversible, it is perfect for any project where both sides will show, such as scarves, blankets, washcloths, and placemats.

Tumbling Moss Block Stitch: At a Glance

  • Skill Level:  Beginner
  • Row Repeat: Knit up the Tumbling Moss Block Stitch in a 20-Row Repeat.
  • Stitch Multiples of 10 stitches
  • Worked on a pattern of knit and purl stitches only.
  • Lays Flat: It is a perfect stitch where you want the fabric to lie flat. 
  • This is a reversible pattern where both sides look identical.  

Why You Will Love this Stitch

Even beginners can master this stitch, but it is not reserved just for beginners.  The only skills needed to create this pattern are making the knit and purl stitches.  It is very versatile because it is reversible, so an entire blanket could be created with this stitch without any major modifications.  

It does require knitting a row repeat of 20 rows, but many repeats are used, and the stitch multiple of 10 will be repeated throughout the row.  It is also easily converted to working in the round, which gives it even more possibilities.

Skills Needed For Working the Tumbling Moss Block Stitch

How to make the knit stitch

How to make the purl stitch

How to cast on and bind off

How to weave in ends

How to block knitting projects

Supplies Needed for Making a Practice Swatch

  • Yarn: I recommend a yarn weight of #3 to #5 in a light-colored yarn so you can see your stitches.  A wool or wool blend is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to block their projects.
  • Knitting Needles:  Straight needles in sizes US 6 to US 9, depending on the weight of yarn used.  For example, a DK weight (#3):  Use US 6 (4.0 mm) for a worsted weight, #4:  Use size US 7 (4.5 mm) or US  (5.0 mm), or a bulky weight (#5): Use a size US 9 or 10.
  • Scissors
  • Tapestry Needle for weaving in ends.
  • Stitch Markers for marking off stitch multiples

Abbreviations

k - knit

p - purl

RS - right side

WS - wrong side

CO - Cast On

BO - Bind off

*     *  Work the instructions between the two asterisks for the number of times indicated.

Instructions for Working Flat

Cast on a multiple of 10 stitches

Row 1 (RS): Purl 1, knit 1.
Row 2 (WS): Purl 2, (knit 1, purl 1) 3 times, knit 2.
Row 3: Purl 3, (knit 1, purl 1) twice, knit 3.
Row 4: Purl 4, knit 1, purl 1, knit 4.
Row 5: Purl 5, knit 5.
Row 6: Purl 5, knit 5.
Row 7: Knit 1, purl 4, knit 4, purl 1.
Row 8: Purl 1, knit 1, purl 3, knit 3, purl 1, knit 1.
Row 9: Knit 1, purl 1, knit 1, purl 2, knit 2, purl 1, knit 1, purl 1.

Row 10: Purl 1, knit 1.
Row 11: Knit 1, purl 1.
Row 12: Purl 1, knit 1, purl 1, knit 2, purl 2, knit 1, purl 1, knit 1.
Row 13: Knit 1, purl 1, knit 3, purl 3, knit 1, purl 1.
Row 14: Purl 1, knit 4, purl 4, knit 1.
Row 15: Knit 5, purl 5.
Row 16: Knit 5, purl 5.
Row 17: Knit 4, purl 1, knit 1, purl 4.
Row 18: Knit 3, (purl 1, knit 1) twice, purl 3.
Row 19: Knit 2, (purl 1, knit 1) 3 times, purl 2.
Row 20: Knit 1, purl 1.
Repeat Rows 1 - 20.

Working Flat in Chart Form

The tumbling moss block in chart form

Written Instructions for Working in the Round

Cast on a multiple of 10 sts

  • Round 1: *(P1, k1) 5 times; work from * to end.
  • Round 2: *P2, (k1, p1) 3 times, k2; work from * to end.
  • Round 3: *P3, (k1, p1) 2 times, k3; work from * to end.
  • Round 4: *P4, k1, p1, k4; work from * to end.
  • Round 5: *P5, k5; work from * to end.
  • Round 6: *P5, k5; work from * to end.
  • Round 7: *K1, p4, k4, p1; work from * to end.
  • Round 8: *P1, k1, p3, k3, p1, k1; work from * to end.
  • Round 9: *K1, p1, k1, p2, k2, p1, k1, p1; work from * to end.
  • Round 10: *(P1, k1) 5 times; work from * to end.
  • Round 11: *(K1, p1) 5 times; work from * to end.
  • Round 12: *P1, k1, p1, k2, p2, k1, p1, k1; work from * to end.
  • Round 13: *K1, p1, k3, p3, k1, p1; work from * to end.
  • Round 14: *P1, k4, p4, k1; work from * to end.
  • Round 15: *K5, p5; work from * to end.
  • Round 16: *K5, p5; work from * to end.
  • Round 17: *K4, p1, k1, p4; work from * to end.
  • Round 18: *K3, (p1, k1) 2 times, p3; work from * to end.
  • Round 19: *K2, (p1, k1) 3 times, p2; work from * to end.
  • Round 20: *(K1, p1) 5 times; work from * to end.

Troubleshooting and Beginner Tips

This stitch requires a 20-row repeat, which can be intimidating to beginners.  While this may seem difficult, it doesn't have to be.  Keeping track of where you are is the key to success.

Here are a few tips to help you stay focused and keep your place.

  1. Print out the pattern and use checklists, highlighters or rulers to keep track of where you are.

Best Yarns for this Stitch

The type of yarn you choose for this stitch pattern depends on your pattern or your project. Without a pattern, the best choice for yarn is a light-colored one so you can see the individual stitches. The yarn can be in 100% wool, a wool blend, or a cotton or cotton blend.  The weight of the yarn should be appropriate to the project you want to make.  For example, a warm blanket would benefit from a bulky or chunky weight yarn.  A cozy scarf could be worked in a worsted-weight or a bulky yarn.  For a summer-weight scarf, a lighter-weight yarn (CYC #3 or #2) would work well.  

For a simple pillow cover, dishcloth, placemat, or table runner, a worsted-weight yarn works well.

Project Ideas

This is a perfect stitch pattern for a project that would benefit from a geometric design.  This can include baby blankets or other-sized blankets, dishcloths, placemats, and pillow covers.  A set of coasters may be a perfect small project for this pattern.

A small panel for a sweater or vest would also be a good project for introducing this stitch pattern. 

Finally, scarves, cowls, and shawls would also be a good choice for this pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Tumbling Moss Stitch

Is the Tumbling Moss Block Stitch good for beginners?

Yes! This stitch only uses knit and purl stitches, making it beginner-friendly. The main challenge is keeping track of the 20-row repeat.

Does the Tumbling Moss Stitch curl?

No, this stitch lies flat because it combines knit and purl textures evenly, making it ideal for scarves and blankets.

What projects work best with this stitch?

This stitch is perfect for blankets, scarves, dishcloths, pillow covers, and other reversible projects

Can I knit this stitch in the round?

Yes, the Tumbling Moss Block Stitch can be adapted for knitting in the round by following the round instructions provided.

Pin for Future Reference

A swatch of tumbling moss block stitch and instructions in chart form in a pin image

Conclusion and Last Words about the Tumbling Moss Stitch

The Tumbling Moss Block Stitch is a perfect example of how simple knit and purl stitches can create a visually complex and beautiful fabric. Whether you're a beginner looking to grow your skills or an experienced knitter wanting a relaxing, rhythmic pattern, this stitch delivers both style and versatility.

Try it on a small swatch first, then use it in scarves, blankets, or home decor projects where its reversible texture really shines.