Get ready to knit your own dishcloth with this easy and free knit dishcloth pattern!
Today, we’re diving into how to knit a dishcloth. It’s super fun and practical! Whether you’re a pro or just starting, this project is for you. With some simple stitches and colorful yarn, you’ll have a cute dishcloth in no time.
So grab your needles, choose your favorite colors, and let’s get started! This step-by-step guide will guide you through the process, making it easy and enjoyable. Let’s make something special for your home!
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Why Knit Your Own Dishcloth?
Knitting your own dishcloth offers numerous benefits. First and foremost, it allows you to customize the size, color, and texture to suit your preferences. You will have the freedom to create something truly unique and one-of-a-kind to match your kitchen decor or personal style. Whether you prefer simple garter stitch or intricate lace patterns, knitting your dishcloth allows you to express your creativity and individuality.
Moreover, knitting your dishcloth is a sustainable choice that reduces reliance on disposable cleaning products. By using a knitted dishcloth, you can minimize waste and contribute to a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Additionally, knitting can be a relaxing and therapeutic activity, providing a sense of accomplishment. With this free knit dishcloth pattern, you can enjoy the satisfaction of creating something functional and beautiful with your own two hands.
Furthermore, knitted dishcloths are durable and long-lasting, making them a practical choice for everyday use in the kitchen. Unlike store-bought dishcloths that may wear out quickly, handmade dishcloths can withstand frequent washing and retain their shape and texture over time. Overall, knitting your dishcloth is a rewarding and enjoyable endeavor that offers numerous benefits for both you and the environment.
Choosing the Right Yarn and Needles
To begin knitting your dishcloth, you’ll need basic knitting supplies such as yarn and needles.
When selecting yarn for your project, opt for 100% cotton yarn for its absorbency and durability. This type of yarn is perfect for dishcloths as it can withstand frequent use and washing without losing its shape or texture. Additionally, cotton yarn is soft on the skin and gentle enough for sensitive dishes and surfaces.
Also consider the texture and thickness of the yarn. A smooth, medium-weight yarn works well for dishcloths, ensuring they’re soft yet sturdy. You can read more about yarn weights here and different types of yarn here.
A medium weight yarn is usually the go-to yarn when knitting dishcloths. This means that you should choose a size US 6-8 for the needles for a balanced tension. These needle sizes are ideal for creating a fabric that is neither too tight nor too loose, ensuring that your dishcloth is sturdy and functional.
When knitting with this free knit dishcloth pattern, using the recommended yarn and needle sizes will help you achieve the desired results with ease. I am using medium weight cotton yarn by Peaches & Creme Stripey in color 17018 Lavender Meadow and size US 7 (4.5mm) needles.
How To Knit a Dishcloth
Next, I will be sharing one of my favorite dishcloth knitting patterns. This simple knitted dishcloth has a nubby texture that is perfect for scrubbing.
This knitted dishcloth pattern features simple stitches and straightforward instructions, making it perfect for knitters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, you’ll find the pattern easy to follow, allowing you to focus on enjoying the knitting process and practicing seed stitch and moss stitch!
You will need the following materials and tools for making this easy to knit dishcloth:
Skills Required: Cast on, bind off, knit, purl, cast on at the end of the row
Dimensions: About 8.5 inches (22cm) long and 8.5 inches (22cm) wide
Yarn: About 76.5 yards (70m) or 1.5oz (42.6g) of medium weight (worsted or aran) yarn
Needles: Size US 7 (4.5mm) or according to your personal knitting gauge
Gauge: 5 sts per inch
I am using Peaches & Creme Stripey in color 17018 Lavender Meadow and size US 7 (4.5mm) straight needles for this knitted dishcloth. I am using a variegated yarn for the entire knitted dishcloth but you can very well use a solid color yarn—or even use a different colored yarn for the borders and another one for the center block!
I like a dishcloth that’s about the size of 8.5″ by 8.5″ (22 x 22cm) but you can adjust make them any size you want. It’s very easy to make this pattern larger or smaller by adjusting the number of stitches. Just keep in mind to add or reduce the stitches or center rows by four to match the pattern as the pattern is divisible by 4.
TIP! You can use this free knit dishcloth pattern to knit a washcloth!
Free Knit Dishcloth Pattern
This knitted dishcloth pattern is a simple combination of seed stitch and moss stitch where you alternate between knits and purls. The borders are created by knitting seed stitch and the center piece by knitting moss stitch. This patterns creates a reversible fabric where both sides of the dishcloth look the same.
You can read detailed instructions for how to knit these stitches in this guide to knitting seed stitch and making the moss stitch.
All in all, it’s very easy to knit this nubby and textured dishcloth:
- Cast on 40 stitches.
- Knit seed stitch for 8 rows.
- Knit seed stitch for 6 stitches, moss stitch for 28 stitches, and seed stitch for 6 stitches.
- Repeat this combination of seed and moss stitch for 40 rows.
- Knit seed stitch for 8 rows.
- Bind off in pattern until one stitch remains.
- Cast on 24 stitches for the hanging loop and then bind off all remaining stitches.
- Sew the hanging loop down into the corner and weave in the ends.
1. Cast On
Measure about 40 inches (100cm) of yarn for the long tail cast-on.
Next, tie a slip knot and place it on two straight needles.
Then cast on 39 stitches (a total of 40 stitches). Once you are done casting on, remove one of the needles.
2. Begin Border
Start knitting the border in seed stitch:
- Row 1: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
- Row 2: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
Repeat these two rows for 3 more times so that you’ll have 8 rows in total.
3. Center
Next, it’s time to knit the center piece of the dishcloth in moss stitch. However, you will continue knitting the sides of the border in seed stitch. Here’s how to do it:
- Row 9: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
- Row 10: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch for 3 times (6 stitches). Then knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch until 6 stitches remains. Finally, purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch for 3 times (6 stitches).
- Row 11: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch for 3 times (6 stitches). Then purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch until 6 stitches remain. Finally, knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch for 3 times (6 stitches)
- Row 12: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch for 3 times (6 stitches). Then purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch until 6 stitches remain. Finally, purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch for 3 times (6 stitches).
Continue repeating rows 9 to 12 for 9 more times (rows 13 to 48).
4. End Border
Now it’s time to knit the end border in seed stitch:
- Row 1: Knit 1 stitch and purl 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
- Row 2: Purl 1 stitch and knit 1 stitch. Repeat to the end of the row.
Repeat these two rows for 3 more times that is for 8 rows (rows 49 to 56). Now your knitted dishcloth has a total of 56 rows.
5. Bind Off
Next, you will bind off in pattern, meaning that you will knit or purl the stitches as the seed stitch pattern requires.
To bind off, knit the first stitch and purl the second stitch from your left-hand needle onto your right-hand needle.
Then, insert you left-hand needle into the first stitch on your right-hand needle. Now, slip the first stitch over the second stitch and drop it off the needle.
Continue this to bind off all stitches on your left-hand needle until you have one stitch left on your right-hand needle.
6. Hanging Loop
Create a hanging loop for your knit dishcloth by casting on 24 stitches next to the last stitch on your needle. Check out the instructions for casting on stitches at the end of a row here.
Now you will have 25 stitches on your needle. This number of stitches will measure for about a 2-inch (5cm) finished hanging loop. You can easily adjust this number for any length you like.
Next, turn your work and bind off all stitches in knit stitches. To do this, knit the first two stitches onto your right needle. Then insert the left needle into the stitch you knitted first and pull it over the last stitch and off the needle.
Bind off the last stitch by cutting the yarn with a 8-inch (20cm) tail and pulling it through the last stitch on your knitting needle. Pull the end tight to secure the finished dishcloth.
Using a tapestry needle, connect the tail end of the yarn to the corner of your dishcloth. Sew the loop properly down into the corner stitch and tie a double knot to secure.
Finally, weave in the extra tail end with the tapestry needle and cut off any extra length. Next, also weave in the tail end at the beginning of your dishcloth.
And voilà, you’re finished!
Personalizing Your Dishcloth
One of the joys of knitting your own dishcloth is the opportunity to add personal touches. Whether you choose to incorporate different stitch patterns, experiment with color combinations, or add decorative embellishments, this free knit dishcloth pattern serves as a canvas for your creativity to shine.
Here’s how you can personalize your easy to knit dishcloth:
- Color combinations: Experiment with different color combinations to match your kitchen decor or express your personal style.
- Stripes or blocks: Create stripes or blocks of color by alternating between different shades of yarn.
- Variegated yarn: Use variegated yarn to add visual interest and texture to your dishcloth.
- Embroidery: Add decorative embroidery stitches to embellish your dishcloth with flowers, animals, or geometric patterns.
- Monogramming: Personalize your dishcloth by adding your initials or a monogram using embroidery or duplicate stitch.
- Lace edging: Knit a lace edging around the border of your dishcloth for an elegant and feminine touch.
- Contrasting border: Knit a border in a contrasting color to frame your dishcloth and add visual impact.
- Appliqué: Attach small fabric or knitted appliqués to your dishcloth to create custom designs or motifs.
- Textured stitches: Experiment with other textured stitches such as double moss stitch or basketweave patterns to add depth and dimension to your dishcloth.
- Personalized tags: Attach a personalized tag or label to your dishcloth to add a special finishing touch and make it truly unique.
Conclusions
If you’re looking for something super fun and easy to knit, this free knit dishcloth pattern is the way to go!
Knitting a dishcloth is a rewarding and practical project that anyone can enjoy. With these simple instructions, you’ll be stitching up dishcloths in no time, adding a pop of color and personality to your kitchen. Or why not give them as thoughtful gifts to loved ones!
So grab your yarn and needles and say goodbye to store-bought dishcloths and hello to handmade kitchen essentials.
Happy knitting!
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