Dishcloths are a quick, satisfying knit that doesn’t require a whole lot of yarn while allowing you to try out new stitches and build up your knitting skills.
When it comes to knitting, dishcloths are a fantastic project to take on. They are small and can be completed relatively quickly, providing instant gratification for knitters of all skill levels. Moreover, dishcloths don’t require a large amount of yarn, making them perfect for using up leftover scraps or trying out new yarns without investing too much. This not only saves money but also reduces waste by utilizing materials that might otherwise go unused.
Furthermore, dishcloths offer a great opportunity to experiment with different stitch patterns and techniques. Since they are relatively small, you can easily try out a variety of stitches within a single project. For example, you could create a dishcloth with a simple garter stitch border and a more intricate lace or cable pattern in the center. This allows you to practice and perfect different knitting stitches, expanding your repertoire and skillset as you go.
Knitting dishcloths also helps to build up your overall knitting skills. They provide an excellent platform for practicing essential techniques such as increasing, decreasing, and seaming. By repeatedly working on these fundamental skills, you become more proficient and confident in your knitting abilities.
Moreover, dishcloths are highly versatile. While their primary purpose is to clean dishes and surfaces, they can also be used as washcloths, pot holders, or even decorative coasters. This versatility allows you to showcase your knitting skills and share your handmade creations with others.
In conclusion, dishcloths are a fantastic knitting project that offers numerous benefits. They are quick to knit, require minimal yarn, allow for experimentation with new stitches, and help to improve overall knitting skills. So why not grab your needles and some yarn and start knitting some practical and beautiful dishcloths?
Difficulty
Easy
Needles & Notions
US7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles (Either flat or circular needles will work)
Tapestry needle
Crochet hook (optional)
Yarn
80 yds / 73 m worsted weight yarn, preferably 100% cotton
Choosing Yarn – For a dishcloth, you want a durable yarn that can withstand being exposed to a lot of water and friction since you will be scrubbing with it. It would be best if you stayed far away from wool, which will fall apart when soaked in water.
Cotton, on the other hand, will lend to dishcloths that are durable and lasting. If using 100% cotton yarn is out of budget or not available, your second option is to go for blends. Cotton and soy blends make soft and strong yarns, precisely what you want for a dishcloth. Strong for scrubbing and yet gentle on the hands. Just ensure that the combination has more cotton than the secondary fiber to ensure strong and soft factors.
Yarn used in Georgina Sample
Knit Picks – Dishie
100% Cotton yarn
190 yds (174 m)/ 3.5 oz (100 g)
Color: Begonia
Gauge
16 stitches by 26 rows in pattern stitch = 4” / 10 cm on US7 (4.5 mm) metal needles, unblocked. While gauge is not important, changes in gauge will result in size differences and the amount of yarn needed to complete the project.
Finished Measurements
9.5” / 24 cm wide by 9” / 23 cm in length, easily adjustable should a different size be required.
Stitch Glossary
K: Knit.
P: Purl.
RS: Right side.
St(s): Stitch(es)
WS: Wrong side.
Directions
Using your preferred cast-on, cast on 40 stitches, or any multiple of 4+8.
Row 1 (RS): P1, *k1, p1; repeat from * to last st, k1.
Row 2 (WS): K1, *p1, k1; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Row 3: Repeat Row 1.
Row 4: K1, p1, k1, purl to last 2 sts, k1, p1.
Row 5: P1, k1, p1, knit to last 2 sts, p1, k1.
Row 6: K1, p1, k1, p2, *k2, p2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, p1, k1, p1.
Row 7: P1, k1, p1, *k2, p2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k3, p1, k1.
Rows 8-47: Repeat Rows 4-7 ten more times.
Rows 48-49: Repeat Rows 4-5 once more.
Row 50: Repeat Row 2.
Row 51: Repeat Row 1.
Row 52: Repeat Row 2.
Bind off your stitches using your preferred bind-off. If desired, do not cut your yarn and single crochet 15 chains to make a little loop for hanging your dishcloth. With your tapestry needle, weave in all your ends.