# [Compare garter, seed and moss structures](https://threadcabin.com/explore/149/compare-garter-seed-and-moss-structures)

> Compare the repeat structure, not just its name. Seed and moss terminology varies, so read how knit and purl positions change between rows.

- Canonical page: https://threadcabin.com/explore/149/compare-garter-seed-and-moss-structures
- Language: en
- Published: 2026-09-25T17:26:33.4780153+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-25T17:26:40.4930821+00:00
- Craft: Knitting
- Primary image: [Illustration: Three cream knitted squares showing garter ridges, seed stitch and a larger moss-stitch checker texture.](https://threadcabin.com/images/explore/focused/texture-samples.jpg)

Compare the repeat structure, not just its name. Seed and moss terminology varies, so read how knit and purl positions change between rows.

## Before you start

Use smooth, light yarn and a small sample that matches the lesson’s flat or circular construction. Mark the right side and record the starting stitch count. Follow the pattern’s own stitch key.

## How to do it

1. Use 12 stitches for each flat strip. Garter: knit every row. Seed: row 1 [knit 1, purl 1] six times; row 2 [purl 1, knit 1] six times; repeat those two rows.
2. For this four-row moss variant, work rows 1–2 as [knit 1, purl 1] six times and rows 3–4 as [purl 1, knit 1] six times. Keep this written repeat with the swatch; names vary by region.

## Try this example

Work three equal-stitch strips, each following its written repeat. After finishing, compare width, thickness and edge behavior; equal stitch counts need not produce equal widths.

## Check your result

- Count live stitches, trace one column and inspect both faces. Compare the relaxed edge with the middle of the sample before repeating the operation on a project.
- Stitch names and mounts vary between knitting styles. Follow the required fabric structure and pattern key rather than assuming every front loop is the correct entry point.

## Sources

- [www.craftyarncouncil.com: instructions_kn.php3](https://www.craftyarncouncil.com/instructions_kn.php3)
- [www.garnstudio.com: lessons.php](https://www.garnstudio.com/lessons.php?show=knitting&cid=19)
- [journals.aps.org: PhysRevX.8.021075](https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.8.021075)

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## Sources and provenance

- [Reading knitting charts: rows, rounds, symbols, and repeats](https://threadcabin.com/explore/17/reading-knitting-charts-rows-rounds-symbols-and-repeats)
- [Understand knit and purl formation](https://threadcabin.com/explore/137/understand-knit-and-purl-formation)
- [Why stockinette curls and balanced structures behave differently](https://threadcabin.com/explore/10/why-stockinette-curls-and-balanced-structures-behave-differently)
- [Make a representative finished swatch](https://threadcabin.com/explore/107/make-a-representative-finished-swatch)