It seems like such a long time since I last shared a free pattern with you all, but sometimes you create a design that’s so good that you can’t help but share it! If you’ve been following me for a while you’ll know that washcloths are one of my go-to destash projects. I love using up scraps of yarn for smaller projects and because I use so much cotton in my designs, you can only imagine how much I have left over. One day I’ll show you just how huge my yarn scraps box is. Or maybe not. It’s actually embarrassing at this point!
So, why is this pattern called My Favourite Washcloths? Well, because they’re just that! There’s something so special about their texture, durability and endless design possibilities. I have to say this is the only pattern I use for washcloths that need a bit of extra strength. They’re strong and beautiful… What could be better?
Let’s talk about that heathered effect. Crocheting with two strands of yarn held together allows you to create a really tactile, fun texture and lets you play around with colour in a really special way. What’s more, crocheting washcloths up using a hook size that’s a size smaller than recommended (as you’ll do in this pattern) gives your cloths extra durability and stops your cloths stretching out wash after wash. We all know that cotton can be an unforgiving fabric and can lose its shape over time, so these cloths are the perfect antidote to that. Also, the structure of this pattern gives the washcloths a really tactile look and they look amazing stacked up together. Don’t you just love that? Best of all, this pattern can very easily be customised and embellished using your own ideas. I’ll give you the basics and you can have fun playing around… Fancy stripes? Go for it! Want to add some bobbles? Yas! Go ahead and leave out the border if you like, but I prefer a simple border to give a ‘finished’ look, especially when combined with an adorable hanging cord – both cute and practical.
For these washcloths I will be using my trademark stitch – hdcbpo – half double crochet between the posts.
Sounds scary, right? Don’t worry though, because there’s a handy stitch diagram and full instructions below.
Are you ready? Let’s go! Don’t forget to credit me and tag me on social media (@emmaknitty) and use the hashtags below if you make this pattern. I would love to see your creations.
Hashtags: #emmaknitty #myfavouritewashcloths
Tools & Materials
(US terms)
To make TWO cloths (approx) you’ll need two 50g balls of 100% cotton yarn Sport weight yarn in the colours of your choice. I used scraps of Hobbii Baby Cotton Organic and Rainbow Cotton 8/6 as well as other scraps from my collection. Using two strands of Sport weight yarn held double equates to Worsted weight.
For the border (optional): One strand of Aran or heavier DK/Worsted weight cotton yarn.
4.00mm crochet hook, scissors and a yarn needle.
Stitches
Ch, sc, hdc, hdcbpo, slst (chain stitch, single crochet, half double crochet between the posts, slip stitch).
Hdcbpo is created by inserting the hook between the hdc stitches of the previous round (see chart below).
Designer Tips:
Do you hate weaving in your ends? A useful technique to create a secure, invisible finish to your cotton projects is by working an invisible knot. To do this, as we are working with two strands, thread one strand of yarn onto your yarn needle and insert it into a place very close to where you’re working. Then take the other strand and double knot these two strands together. Cut the yarn as close as possible to the knot – taking care not to pull to tightly and pucker your work – and you’re done. This leaves a really clean and professional look.
Do you want to make these cloths bigger or smaller? Simply chain more (or less) at the beginning of your project. Bear in mind that this will affect the amount of yarn that you use.
These cloths may seem a little stiff at the beginning of your project. Don’t worry! They’re supposed to be sturdy in order to keep their shape and will soften up as you work, as well as wash after wash. However, if you feel like making these washcloths with a ‘looser’ feel, feel free to go up a hook size one or half a size.
Pattern:
Using two strands held together, ch 32.
Work one hdc into the second ch from the hook and in every ch across. Ch two and turn.
Work hdcbpo into every st, chaining two and turning at the end of each row, until you have 27 rows.
Break yarn and pull the yarn through the stitch to fasten off.
To make the border and hanging cord:
With the right side facing you and using your chosen yarn for the border, insert your hook into any corner of your work. Ch two (the first ch counts as a sc, the second ch as a corner chain space) and then work a sc into that same space. This forms your first corner. Work one sc into every stitch around your cloth. When you reach the end of the round, sl st into the first ch st you made to finish the border. Do not break your yarn.
To create the hanging cord, ch 16 and sl st into the same place you started to finish off. If you’d prefer a longer or shorter cord you can adjust the amount of chains you make, although 16 is a great number for a versatile cord size. Break the yarn, pull through the stitch and weave in your ends neatly and carefully.
…You’re all done. Doesn’t your cloth look lovely? If you want some design ideas, check out the photos below. I hope you enjoyed this fun pattern!
Emmaknitty 