Every knitter knows that a good washcloth is the perfect way to cleanse your palate between bigger projects. Not only are washcloths really simple and quick to whip up, but they are also a perfect scrap-buster, meaning that you can eat through your leftover cotton in no time. This is the dream scrap yarn knitting project!
These washcloths were designed to be quick and satisfying, and they include a really cool technique that is beautiful to look at and so, so easy to work up. Simply by slipping the last two stitches of your row, you can create a smooth edge that looks so sleek, super professional that will get everybody wondering, “How did they do that?” I will include full instructions here and a beautiful tutorial so you can knit up a stack of these gorgeous knitted Weekend Washcloths in just one weekend. Warning – everyone will ask you to make a set for them, so get your cotton stash ready!
Why You Will Love These:
Speedy Results: Holding your yarn double really helps with the quickness, allowing you to finish a washcloth in no time at all.
Professional Finish: These feature a unique edge that leaves a neat finish without the usual garter stitch bumps.
Easy Knitting: They are worked in garter stitch, making this a really fast and easy project that is ideal for knitting in front of the TV.
Highly Giftable: Make a stack for friends. They are a brilliant gift idea, and you should definitely try them for a housewarming gift.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the size to make them as big or as small as you like.
Weekend Washcloths: Easy Scrap-Busting Knitting Pattern
| Materials & Tools | |
|---|---|
| Yarn Shades |
Color 1: Friends Cotton 8/8 (Shade 01) Color 2: Friends Cotton 8/4 (Color 114) Color 3: Scheepjes Mighty (Color 753 Glacier) |
| Sample Combos |
Sample 1: Color 2 held with Color 3 Sample 2: Color 1 held with Color 3 Sample 3: Color-blocked combination of all shades |
| Needles | 4.0 mm needles (circular or straight). |
| Essential Tools | Scissors, tape measure. |
| Optional Tools | Stitch marker, crochet hook (for optional hanging cord). |
| Techniques & Abbreviations | |
|---|---|
| Abbreviations |
CO: Cast On K: Knit S2wyif: Slip two stitches with yarn in front St(s): Stitch(es) BO: Bind Off |
| Project Notes |
Worked with yarn held double. Optional crochet chain can be added for a hanging loop. Instructions for knitted hanging loops are given in pattern. |
Pattern Overview
This project is knit flat using any multiple of stitches. You will knit until you reach the last few stitches of the row, then slip those remaining stitches with the yarn held in front. After turning, you continue knitting as normal. By repeating this process until the desired length is reached, you create a beautiful, finished look before binding off and adding an optional hanging loop to the corner.
MEASUREMENTS, GAUGE & YARN DETAILS
Measurements are variable depending on the amount of stitrches cast on. My samples measure 26 cm x 22 cm (large version) and 18 cm x 18 cm (smaller versions).
Gauge: 16 sts x 26 rows in garter stitch.
Yardage & Recommendations
Yardage Estimate: Each washcloth uses approximately 85 to 90 meters of yarn (total length, held double). Please ensure you have sufficient yarn in your chosen color combo to cover this requirement.
Professional Recommendations
- Blocking: For a professional finish, give your finished washcloth a gentle wet block. It helps the garter stitch even out and highlights the sleekness of your slipped-stitch edges.
- Tension: When slipping the final two stitches, be careful not to pull the yarn too tight across the back of the work. This will ensure your edge stays flexible.
Pattern Instructions:
Cast On: Using your chosen yarn held double and 4.0 mm needles, cast on 30 stitches.
Body
- Rows 1 to 52: Knit every stitch until you reach the last two stitches of the row. Move your yarn to the front of your work and slip those last two stitches purlwise with the yarn held in front. Turn your work and continue to knit as usual.
- Bind Off: After 52 rows, bind off all stitches loosely.
Hanging Loop (Optional)
- Knitted Version: CO 18 stitches, BO all stitches, and sew onto a corner of the washcloth.
- Crocheted Version: Using a crochet hook, ch 18 and sew the chain into a loop onto a corner of the washcloth.
Now you’re done you can make a whole stack!
If you loved this free pattern, don’t forget to share your work and tag me on Instagram! I love to see your creations.
Have a crafty day!
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