Grandmother’s Favorite Dishcloth Knitting Pattern is a simple beginner knitting pattern. You’ll want to make a whole drawer full of these knitted dishcloths!
Years ago, when I first started knitting, I looked for a beginning knitter pattern to help me learn how to knit.
I visited a quaint little yarn shop in a nearby town, and came home with a bag full of wool yarn, an easy knitting pattern for a basic scarf, and some metal knitting needles.
I worked on that scarf through the long winter months, and was so thrilled when my very first knitting project was complete!
The next knitting project I attempted was these dishcloths. And the result was so satisfying!
I had received a couple of these classic dishcloths for Christmas from my husband’s grandmother. I found them to be so great for washing dishes, and I wanted more of them!
After a few years of getting handmade knitted dishcloths from other people, I decided it was time to learn how to knit them myself.
The Grandmother’s Favorite Dishcloth knitting pattern is so easy and fun to make. Once I finish one I cast on another one!
I like the fact that I can do these pretty mindlessly, and for a beginning knitter they are easy to learn and practice knitting with.
Be sure to watch the instruction video below if you need help learning how to knit!
Learn to Knit Grandmother’s Favorite Dishcloth
This pattern is commonly known as “Grandmother’s Favorite Dishcloth,” and it’s a simple, classic pattern.
No one is certain who created this pattern originally, as it’s been around for many years, handed down through the generations.
You can give your dishcloths a completely different look just by changing the yarn you use. Use a multi-colored yarn for a fun and cheerful look, or choose a solid color cotton yarn if you’re craving something a bit more classic.
Even though I love all the brightly-colored dishcloths I’ve made, my favorites are the more muted and classic-looking solid colors.
They also make great gifts! I love making these and pairing them with homemade soap, homemade soy candles, or a jar of body scrub in a basket.
You can also make this same pattern in a coaster size! See this post: Easy Knitted Coasters Pattern
And, you can also make a kitchen towel with a few adjustments to this basic pattern: Grandmother’s Favorite Kitchen Towel Knitting Pattern
Grandmother’s Favorite Dishcloth Pattern
I wanted to share this amazingly easy to knit dishcloth pattern here in case someone else is looking for it!
Affiliate links included below. Read my disclosure here.
Pattern Supplies and Instructions
Materials:
Instructions:
k2Tog – Knit 2 Together, which decreases
That’s it! Enjoy making this simple and useful pattern for yourself or to share with others!
Related Posts:
- Easy Knitted Coasters Pattern
- Grandmother’s Favorite Kitchen Towel Knitting Pattern
- Knitting More Dishcloths
- Knitting and Reading (Bunnies!)
- Knit Pumpkin
- Handmade Baby (Knit Earflap Hat)
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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy. Sharing here.
k jeanne says
Ah, now I get it — repeating Row 2 EVERY row means you are increasing at the BEGINNING of the next row. So we are INCREASING on that row also. Very confusing. Sorry.
Joy Kincaid says
Glad it worked! I’m sorry for the confusion. I keep saying I need to make a video for this pattern to make it easier (it’s on my to-do list!).
k jeanne says
Suggest the ROW 2 is incomplete. The way the instructions are written the only increase is at the beginning of the row and none at the end of the row. K2 yo knit remainder of row. Doesn’t make sense. Should read knit to within last two stitches of row and then do a YO and knit remaining 2 stitches.
Katrina says
This pattern is correct. For this pattern, if you have an increase at the beginning of every row, it will give you this lovely pattern. I have seen some patterns where they have the increase both the beginning and the end, however, the next row is knit only without any increase. I have found this one to be simpler to keep track of where I am.
Ellie Fenyohazi says
Hi joy, would love to make the dishcloth, can t seem to get the holes along the edge, don’t know what I’m doin wrong, learned to knit in Europe, have been trying with the yarn over from different direction and no luck, any help would be greatly appreciated thank you
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Ellie! I’m so sorry it’s not turning out. Did you watch the video in the post? The video shows all the steps from the very beginning.
Cindy says
Hi , I’ve been making dishcloths for many years now, I always make at least two each for my dil for Christmas they actually look forward to getting two new ones every year, I’m a knit at heart , I’ve been knitting since I’ve been 7 I’m in mine early 70’s now. I also quilt but knitting is mine love well besides the Lord and husband and sons dils and 7 grandkids, I was tight to do yarn over the other way then what you show in your video, I guess there’s know right way huh !!! Thanks again
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Cindy! I’m so happy to meet you! Yes, my mom also has a different knitting style (I taught myself how to knit before she started knitting). I learned the English style of knitting, and she does Continental knitting, which is easier for her since she’s been crocheting for many years, and Continental is more similar to the way you hold the yarn with crochet. I’m glad both work, because the Continental style doesn’t feel “right” to me now that I’ve learned the other way! 🙂
Mary says
How do you get 45 st on the needle when you only have 4 st at cast on?
Joy Kincaid says
Row 2 will increase the number of stitches on the needles. There’s a video in the post that may be helpful, as it shows each step.
Vickie L West says
I’ve been knitting your Grandmother’s favorite dishcloth. When I get to the 2nd half and do the yarn over, the holes are so big. It doesn’t look very good when I’m finished. I wish I could send you a picture. I was thinking of skipping the yo, but figured there wouldn’t be any holes at all in the 2nd half. Any tips?
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Vickie! If you’re following the pattern as written, I’m not sure what to suggest. Are you a loose knitter? I’m a pretty tight knitter, so my stitches turn out looking a bit smaller and tighter. Also, lately I’ve been using size 7 (4.5 mm) needles, and I like the way they turn out better than with the size 9 needles. It makes the stitches smaller and tighter with the smaller needles. Hope that helps!
Sherry Kilgore says
I have a difficult time with the decreasing side, do you have any tips that might make it easier?
Joy Kincaid says
I’m so sorry to hear that, Sherry! Unfortunately, I can’t think of any tips that might help. Did you see the video in the post? Maybe seeing it would help.
Carol says
Hi I’m trying to make a dish towel with this pattern. In a rectangular shape and a past to hang towel. Any idea how to do this? I’m a new knitter? ♀️
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Carol! I have a post with a dish towel pattern that I’ve made using a modified version of this pattern. You can find that post here. I’ve received a few questions about the instructions for this pattern, so I’m hoping to eventually film an instructional video to help show the process better.
Kelly says
Thanks for sharing with us on the Homestead Blog Hop. We love it so much that we’re featuring you tomorrow! Keep up and all beautiful work. Thank you.
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks so much for the feature, Kelly!
Crummy Mummy says
I love the colours & the retro look – gorgeous! Thanks so much for linking up with #fortheloveofblog – hope to see you again next time!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you!
Dana, A Mamanista Life says
I used to love knitting as a child. Your dish cloths are adorable and I love your choice of colours, super cute xx #ForTheLoveOfBlog
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Dana!
Claire Kirby says
What a great way to be environmentally friendly and sustainable too. I had never heard of knitted dishcloths. Thanks for linking up to #forhteloveofblog
Joy Kincaid says
They’re super easy to make!
Susan says
You may want to recheck this pattern. Knitting two together and then yarning over is just decreasing and increasing over and over giving you four stitches on your needle continuously.
Joy Kincaid says
I’ve made so many of these with this pattern! I regularly give them as gifts, and everyone loves receiving them.
Stacey says
You knit 2 together twice and only yarn over once, thus decreasing by one.
Jackie says
Thank you so much for posting this pattern! I have made oodles of these dishcloths and they are truly the best. It has been several years however since I picked up my needles (I tend to prefer crochet typically) and since it had been so long my pattern (passed down from my mother!) had been lost in the abyss. Can’t wait to make her some of these! (She has Parkinson’s and finds herself unable to craft anymore).
Joy Kincaid says
That’s so sweet that you’re making these for your mother! So happy to hear that.
Sarah Owens says
Hello, I just wanted to stop by and thank you for this pattern! I’ve had a stash of hemp yarn for years and could never figure out what to do with it. I knit this up this dishcloth this afternoon with it and it’s perfect for this! Thank you
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you so much for letting me know—so glad it was helpful!
McKenna says
Hi Joy! Thank you for the easy to follow pattern and the video on your youtube! If I wanted to make these slightly larger, do I just on stitches until I get the size I want, or is there a certain number I should add? Thank you!
Joy Kincaid says
So glad it was helpful! Yes, if you want them larger, you could just increase (row 2) a bit more (no particular number, just however big you want it). Then you just follow the rest of the pattern as written.
Kerryanne says
Such a great project Joy and one I definitely need to add to my To-Do list.
Thank you for sharing your ‘Grandmother’s favourite knitted dishcloth pattern’ at Create, Bake, Grow & Gather this week. I’m delighted to be featuring them at tonight’s party and pinning too.
Hugs,
Kerryanne
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Kerryanne!
Donna Reidland says
What a beautiful and simple pattern!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Donna!
Michelle says
I haven’t knitted in forever. Pinning! I have a feeling I’m going to want this refresher!
Michelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks for stopping by, Michelle!
Linda Bremer says
I love this pattern, however the decrease half always comes out bigger than the increase half. It turns out not to be square. Any suggestions?
Joy Kincaid says
Blocking the completed project helps, but I would only bother with blocking for gift-giving. When I’m making them for myself, they just go straight to the dishcloth drawer. 🙂
Jan says
Similar problem: I’ve made several of these, but find when I am decreasing the yarn over holes are bigger than when increasing. Any suggestions?
EmayPA says
Maybe slide the stitches onto a smaller needle at that point?
Ellen says
Great pattern! Super directions! I knitted with Hobby Lobby’s Scrub-ology yarn and 9 needle.Makes a great body scrubber. Thanks, Ellen
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks, Ellen!
Doris says
Hi!
I love this pattern. Currently I’m using size 7 needles and its perfect. However, I’d like to make a bigger version of this pattern (about the size of a kitchen towel).
Could you please provide feedback on how I can do that?
Thanks!
Doris
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Doris! So glad you like the pattern—it’s my favorite! I’m working on writing a larger version of this pattern that would be more of a kitchen towel size. Hopefully I can get that finished soon!
Doris says
Thank you so much!
Marcia says
Do you have a pattern for a mask for Coronavirus. I have cotton yarn for a washcloth. What size should it be? Use elastic for earpieces?
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Marcia! I’m sorry, I don’t have any experience with those. There may be a pattern online if you google it.
Kristi says
My mom is sewing face masks and adding a filter…..she found the idea on YouTube!
Terri says
I am a beginner and just knitted my first dishcloth with your pattern. Can you share a pattern the same as the dishcloth but for a square coaster size? Thank you!!
Terri
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Terri! So glad to hear it worked out well for you! I’ll have to see if I can come up with a coaster size. 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
Terri, I just wanted to let you know that I finished the coaster pattern, and you can find that here: https://www.artfulhomemaking.com/knitted-coasters-pattern/
Irene says
So pretty, and environmentally friendly too!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you!
Beverly says
I love your knitted dishcloths. I have received some as gifts and They are great.
Congratulations, you are being featured on Thursday Favorite Things. I hope you stop by. https://www.eclecticredbarn.com/2020/01/thursday-favorite-things_9.html
Hugs,
Bev
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Beverly!
Mercia says
Thanks for your story.
Juli Canizales Boller says
Your row three has an error in it. If you knit to the end of the row it skips the needed k2tog, yo, k2tog, k1.
Pat McLain says
Nope. Increases and decreases are done at the beginning of the row only. As you go along you’ll realize this knitting project is worked on the diagonal, which adds interest to the simple design! and you end up with a cloth that has both an eyelet design and a 2 stitch border on all 4 sides of the cloth. I’ve made dozens of these, the design is fun, and easy and quick…
Stephanie says
Thank you for tis video. Very infomative and pleasant. Lovely colours.
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Stephanie! So glad it was helpful!
Mac says
THANK YOU! My 90 year-old mother lost her pattern somewhere over a two-month period when moving from her apartment to the hospital to rehab to Assisted Living! Now that she’s feeling better, she wants to start knitting again! This is AWESOME!
Joy Kincaid says
So glad it was helpful!
Jill says
I’ve made MANY of these & they NEVER turn out square – the 2nd half is wonky – stretched out & awful – any tricks??
Joy Kincaid says
You could try blocking it if you wanted it to look more perfectly square.
Jill says
How do you do that??
Joy Kincaid says
Blocking is where you wet and reshape your completed knitting project. It’s pretty simple to do. If you do a google search with the term “how to block knitting,” lots of videos and tutorials will come up that might be helpful.
Lisa says
love this dishcloth, I know I have seen the matching tea towel, do you hae the pattern for that?
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks, Lisa! No, I’m not familiar with the tea towel, I’ve only made lots of these dishcloths!
liz says
These are adorable! And I love how nice and easy they look. Thanks for sharing on Homestead Blog hop! 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you! They’re super easy!
Elfie Z. says
Dear Joy, I am an american/german knitter and the first time I saw knitted dish clothes on Pinterest I thought : I will never do anything that ridiculous. Well 2 years and MANY dish clothes later I never say never to new/old ideas. They are great and my German friends love them !! In your directions you forgot to explain how to form the corners in the middle of the cloth. That might help other knitters to get the right shape.
May we all knit on and on and on ……
Elfie
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you’re enjoying making dishcloths, Elfie! I’d love to hear your suggestions for improving the corner shape!
Sally Summers says
How do you form the corners in the middle of the cloth???? Would love some help with this!
Roxie says
Have you ever figured this out?
Kelly Feraro says
I’ve recently learned to knit and used this as my first project involving a pattern to follow. It was fun and easy to do! I’m excited to do another one. Thank you for sharing this!
Joy Kincaid says
So glad it was helpful, Kelly!
Mar says
Hi Ms. Joy!
I am a younger knitter (meaning age, as I have been knitting for a few years now) and have made this washcloth pattern many times! I was wondering if there was a way to make both ends look the same. When I start off, the first side looks rounded but at the end that you cast off at is all triangular. I love this pattern, but if I give them away I always feel like I have to apologize for the different shaped ends. I would really appreciate if any one has the answer as I can’d find how to fix it on the internet. 🙁
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Mar! If you block your dishcloth after knitting, that should help some. If you do a google search for how to block knitting, that might give you some ideas. Hope that helps!
Alechia says
I wonder if you do want to do the yarn over can you do another way to increase like make 1 stitch or knit front and back in same stitch?
Joy Kincaid says
I’ve never tried altering the pattern at all, so I’m not sure. If you try it, let me know how it turns out!
Kathi says
Hi Joy – I am so glad to hear that I am not alone for being a tight knitter. That was the way my Gram taught me over 60 years ago and believe it or not, I too have the original knitting needles that she taught me on and they are also a size 9.
Thanks so much for sharing this pattern. I belong to a group called KnitWits and this will be a great pattern to share with our new knitters.
Thanks again and Happy Holidays.
Joy Kincaid says
I hope your knitting group enjoys the pattern, Kathi! And Happy Holidays to you!
Alexis says
I LOVE this pattern! so quick and easy. My favorite yarn is Hobby Lobby’s “Love this Cotton” it is much softer than others I have used. It will also work with 2 strands of 10 weight crochet cotton. Have even done it in the scrubby yarn. I have a drawer full 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you’re enjoying it too! Thanks so much for sharing about the yarn you use! I love the idea of using the scrubby yarn.
Kath says
Hi. Lovely pattern I just made my first cloth. If I wanted to make a smaller cloth would I just not knit up to 45 stitches. Would it work the same if I just did 20 or 30 k you
Joy Kincaid says
I’m not sure. I’ve never altered the pattern before. If you decide to try it, I’d love to know how it turns out!
Emma wong says
How many washcloths can I make with one skein of yarn?
Joy Kincaid says
It depends on the size of the skein, how tight you knit, etc. Some of the Sugar ‘n Cream yarn is 2.5 oz, and some is just 2 oz. The striped Ombre yarn (which is mostly what I’ve used so far) is just 2 oz., and I can get *almost* 2 dishcloths out of it. On the second dishcloth I can get a little over 3/4 done (maybe more) before I need to tie on some more yarn from another skein. With the 2.5 oz skeins you might could get two complete dishcloths out of that one skein. Hope that helps!
Kathleen says
I use a size 6 knitting needle and like the size of the finished cloth but I would like a looser stitch without becoming to big. You use a size 9?
Joy Kincaid says
Yes, I do use a size 9, but I tend to knit tighter in general, so maybe that makes a difference.
Kathleen says
Hello! I have been making these dishcloth up until menopause, 5 years ago, then I started having respiratory discomfort from the cotton fibers and possibly the dye or chemical that is used to process. This and many others things have had to come to a stop because of my intolerances and sensitives to almost everything. It has been difficult but I recently tried Quince and Co Sparrow organic linen and I am making the Warm Springs bath mitt by Elizabeth Doherty. You can purchase her pattern on Ravelry. I seem to be tolerating this fabric with very little discomfort. It is also a good beginner’s pattern when you gain the confidence to learn a new stitch. My question is: Are your dishcloths loose when wet? I gave my sister two which I knitted with a size 6 needle and she said she did not like them as they were too bulky for her. I like them myself, I tried a size 7 needle and thought they became too large in size. What does yours measure when completed? Thanks!
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Kathleen! Thanks for sharing about the linen yarn and pattern. My dishcloths tend to get a bit tighter and shrink up after washing (because of the cotton yarn), but the finished size of an unwashed cloth is about 9″ x 9″. And yes, I do use a size 9 needle. That was the only size I had when I got started making this pattern years ago, and I’ve just continued to use that size (I still use those same needles, years later!). I do tend to be a tighter knitter, though, so maybe that makes a difference.
Sallie says
I am a beginner knitter and this pattern has really helped me become a better knitter. Would love to step up my game with another of your patterns.
Joy Kincaid says
So glad it’s been helpful, Sallie!
Rebecca says
Hello,
I am trying my hand at these, and was wondering how you get the edging like that, or if thats something that happens as you are making the dish cloth?
Thank you!
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Rebecca! Yes, the edging is part of the pattern, so it will just form naturally as you knit it. Hope you enjoy making them!
Lynda Hardy says
My gramma used to keep us stocked in dishcloths every year! Thanks for sharing with Party in Your PJs!
Joy Kincaid says
What a sweet memory!
Candy says
I’m a new knitter, very easy pattern to practice with and have something to show for it. Also good use for leftover yarn.
Joy Kincaid says
So glad it worked out well for you, Candy!
Teresa says
I’ve just made 2 of these wonderful dishcloths. I like be the way they feel. I tend to knit tightly but I focused to make myself knit a bit looser so the dishcloth has a wonderful loose kinda drape feel. Plan to make several more for gifts.
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you like them, Teresa! They make wonderful gifts!
Babychaser says
I love this dishcloth! I found it here YEARS ago and made a bunch of them. And I had never knitted before! 🙂
Glad you are sharing it again!
Blessings,
Babychaser
mamasbrush.wordpress.com
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you enjoyed the pattern and that it worked out well for you! 🙂 Blessings to you and your family!
Kelsey says
This looks like a great pattern! I’ve been wanting to expand my knitting and this looks like a great (and quick!) option.
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Kelsey! It’s definitely my favorite dishcloth pattern, and it’s so easy!
April J Harris says
These are so pretty, Joy, they would make me look forward to hand washing dishes! Thank you so much for sharing this lovely pattern with us at the Hearth and Soul Link Party. Have a wonderful weekend!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, April!
Roseann Hampton says
I was just thinking about making some new dish cloths and found your link on Made By You Monday! Thanks for sharing the pattern!
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you stopped by, Roseann! Have fun making some new dish cloths!
Christina Makri says
I admire people who can make such beautiful things! I cannot! Thank you for sharing at Sweet Inspiration Link Party 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
That’s very kind of you! Thanks so much, Christina
Teresa says
Very pretty and I bet they do a great job in the kitchen! I was taught to knit, but haven’t done it in 40 years, though I do crochet some. Thank you for sharing your skills with us at Party in Your PJ’s!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Teresa!
Nicole says
A long time ago, someone gave me a knitted washcloth they had made. I loved it so much, it was probably the best washcloth ever! I need to learn to knit so I can make this one.
Thank you for sharing your knitted dishcloth pattern post with us at the #HomeMattersParty this week.
Joy Kincaid says
They’re so fun and easy to make! Thanks for stopping by, Nicole!
Sophia says
I was wondering how do you yarn over? And knit 2 together?
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Sophia! I highly recommend knittinghelp.com. They have super helpful videos that walk you through each step. Just do a search on their website for the knitting technique you’re looking for. Hope that helps!
Joyce says
Don’t understand why you have a row 4
Joyce says
Never mind just got understanding
Joy Kincaid says
Glad you figured it out! 🙂
liz says
So cute! Thanks for sharing this fun & easy pattern for beginners – we are featuring you this week on Homestead Blog Hop! 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Liz! And thanks so much for the feature!!
Leslie says
So pretty! I wish I knew how to knit! Thanks so much for sharing at the #happynowlinkup!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Leslie!
Marla says
Hi Joy,
I love you colorful dishcloths. The brighter the better and I have used some handmade ones like this and they work very well. Congratulations on being featured on Homestead blog hop. Pinned & tweeted. Have a healthy, happy & blessed day!
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you, Marla! The bright colors are fun. 🙂
Teresa Kindred says
Thanks for sharing! Would love for you to link this up at http://nanahood.com/woodstock-georgia-weekend-wedding
Carol L says
Wonderful! I have had to buy on Etsy to find these great dishcloths…..Now, if you could just teach me to knit!!!! (I’m a leftie, and when my grandmother tried I just couldn’t learn, figure now it was because I’m left handed…) I would LOVE to learn, but the videos on Amazon are from the knitters view, and I think I need one FACING the knitter so I can duplicate the motions left handed.
Lovely pattern, thanks for sharing
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Carol! My brother is left-handed, so I know it can be a challenge to have to deal with all the right-handed tutorials out there! 🙂 I just did a quick google search, “learn to knit left handed,” and it brought up several YouTube videos and tutorials, all showing lefties how to knit. Hope that helps!
Dianne says
Is there a remedy for a lopsided dishcloth?
Joy Kincaid says
The main remedy I know of is to try blocking the dishcloth. If you do a Google search on “how to block knitting,” it should lead you to some how-to articles. I hope that helps!
Dianne says
Thanks, Joy, will give that a try!
Zoraida says
I love knitting but i would like the instruccions in spanish,if you don’t mine. I appreciate if you share in both language.
Joy Kincaid says
I’m sorry, I don’t know Spanish. You might try Google Translate.
Liz says
Hi! I’m so happy that I just found this post. But I was wondering what to do with the tails of the yarn from where I cast on and bind off at. Thanks so much for putting this pattern out!
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Liz! After you finish, you bind off and weave in the ends with a yarn needle. Hope that helps!
Katie says
When I do row 2 do I continue with the k2-yo-k , or just do the k2-yo then k to the end and increase in the following rows?
Joy Kincaid says
Row 2 is k2-yo-k. Then you repeat this sequence until you have 45 stitches on the needle. This will create the increase until you have 45 stitches. Hope that helps!
Barb says
Ok confused, here. When I repeat row two, do I just increase one stitch on each row or every two stitches? So just on YO at the beginning of each row??
Barb says
Never mind, I figured it out!
Joy Kincaid says
Oh, good, so glad you figured it out! 🙂
Lisa S. Kobel says
This is a different way of stitching this pattern dishcloth. I look forward to trying it this way.
Joy Kincaid says
Enjoy! This is still one of my favorite patterns to knit. 🙂
Virginia says
I love this pattern, which i have tried to do many times, but it never comes out looking right on the corner that I knit last. Any suggestions??
Joy Kincaid says
I think I know what you’re talking about, as I’ve noticed the same thing before. It usually helps if you block the dishcloth after knitting it. I don’t do this for the ones we use at home, but if you’re going to give them as a gift, blocking is always a good idea. Hope that helps!
Marlene Somner says
Tried this pattern and it was a blast doing it. Thanks for sharing your pattern with us.
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you liked it, Marlene! 🙂
Laura Lane says
I've enjoyed using this pattern many times. Thank you!
I made a pin that I'll be sharing on my blog tomorrow.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/257690409898392286/
Please drop by and say hello!
ஐღLauraღஐ
Harvest Lane Cottage
…doing what I can with what I've got where I am
on a short shoestring budget!
~~~~~
Please e-mail me if you'd like me to remove the link.
lauraofharvestlane at gmail dot com
Joy Kincaid says
So glad you like the pattern, Laura! I'm thinking of starting on some new ones myself. Thanks for linking back to me, I really appreciate it!
Anonymous says
I can't get the eyelet around the outside to come out right. Any ideas?
Joy Kincaid says
I'm sorry, I have no idea why it wouldn't come out right. Mine have always turned out fine with this pattern. Sorry!
Joann says
This is for Anonymous:
I have made many dishcloths by this pattern, at least 50, or more. I have the problem you spoke of occasionally. I think the reason is the tension. It usually happens on the decrease end, so I try to hold my yarn tighter when doing the k2 together, yarn over, k2 together. That is where the eyelet holes are larger if I don’t hold my yarn tight enough. It’s a bit tricky, but it can be done. Hope this is helpful.
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you so much for this helpful reply, Joann!
Anonymous says
Hi! I´m excited about starting my dishcloths, I just have a question, can I use acrylic yarn??
Saludos from Mexico (:
Joy Kincaid says
I've only used cotton, but you can try acrylic and see how it turns out! I think the cotton works best, though. Hope that helps! 🙂
yasminr says
Thank you so much for the pattern. It stitched up nicely. I used Debbie Bliss Cotton DK on 4mm needles.
Joy Kincaid says
You're welcome! So glad it worked out well for you, and thanks for sharing the yarn and needles you used!
Crafts 'n' Skills says
Dear Joy,
Hope you don't mind me linking this page and your blog on my blog today. I am so fond of this pattern! I already made a few and I loved to join this pattern with my readers. I know a lot of them want to knit these cloths, but have trouble translating the used kniiting terms. I translated this pattern to my Dutch readers; hope you are ok with that? I linked you in both the post and the pattern-page.
Hope to make so much more of these easy and lovely dishcloths!
Blessed Holidays,
Love from Holland
Joy Kincaid says
That sounds great! Thank you so much for linking to me!
Hope your holidays are blessed!
♥Joy
Anonymous says
I just finished another one yesterday! Funny how we do the same thing. I like to keep my hands busy.
Joy Kincaid says
I need to return to these. I haven't made one in awhile! 🙂
Michele says
my grandmother has made these for everyone in our family. she passed away two years ago and I was lucky enough to not only get her huge collection of knitting needles, but a bag of this exact yarn in various colors. I'm so excited to have found this pattern and can't wait yo make some 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
What a sweet story, Michele. 🙂 I hope you enjoy knitting these as much as I have!
Kirsten says
Hi. I know this post is old but I was wondering if there was any way to make it more rectangular/longer so it's more of a hand towel? Thanks! Love this pattern by the way! Working on my first one now!
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Kirsten,
Here's a link I just found by searching google…towards the end of the pattern, there's a suggestion for turning the dishcloths into a towel. It looks like the same pattern I'm using, so it might work! Let me know if you try it and it works for you!
Kirsten says
Hi Joy,
I'm not seeing a link in your response. Thanks!
Joy Kincaid says
Oh, sorry, Kirsten–must have been distracted when I wrote that comment. 🙂 Here it is: http://groovy-mom.com/crafty/patterns/dishcloth.shtml
Kirsten says
Thanks!
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks, Rose Petal! I think this is a very good pattern to learn some basic stitches, and as you said, make something useful in the process. I hope you and your daughter enjoy knitting together!
Rose [email protected] says
Beautiful! My 12 yo dd adopted from Liberia is trying to learn to knit…it's been way too long since I was a girl and knew some basic stitches. This is a great idea of something useful and simple to start on. Thanks so much!
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks, Rose!
Rose says
I love the colors!
Joy Kincaid says
Great! Glad you were able to find some at a good price. If you get a chance to try the pattern I hope you like it! 🙂
~Babychaser~ says
Thanks Joy! I found both the 2 and 2.5 ounce sizes on sale at Michael's this weekend for 1.25 each. I grabbed up 14 skeins! 🙂 I'm going to give it a try here in the near future. Thanks for the help!
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Babychaser,
Some of the Sugar 'n Cream yarn is 2.5 oz, and some is just 2 oz. The striped Ombre yarn (which is mostly what I've used so far) is just 2 oz., and I can get *almost* 2 dishcloths out of it. On the second dishcloth I can get a little over 3/4 done (maybe more) before I need to tie on some more yarn from another skein. With the 2.5 oz skeins you might could get two complete dishcloths out of that one skein.
We have a little store in our area that has this yarn on sale regularly. I stock up then, because sometimes they can cost as little as $1.15 per skein (for the 2 oz size). So, if you're getting almost 2 dishcloths out of this one skein for $1.15, that's around 60 cents per dishcloth. (Not an exact price quote, since you're also needing to use a bit from another ball of yarn on the 2nd dishcloth, and it depends on the price of yarn in your area, but you can see that these aren't very expensive to make). I pretty much just make them for gifts. I enjoy making and giving them, and others seem to enjoy receiving them. 🙂
Blessings as you await the arrival of your new little one!
~Babychaser~ says
I've been looking forward to trying these and am hoping to get some of that yarn with coupons this next week (assuming our little one hasn't made her appearance before then).
I'm curious though… how many dish clothes can you get from a skein of that particular yarn? 1? 2? More? I'm wondering what I'll really need and how much they end up costing in the end.
Thanks again for sharing this. I'm just getting started in learning to Knit and this will be great practice… maybe while nursing once the new baby and I settle in a bit. 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
Hi Trophy and Barb,
I'm not really very familiar with the Knifty Knitter. I've never used one myself, but I know my mom has used them in the past.
I have no idea how you would adapt a regular knitting pattern for the Knifty Knitter, but I did a quick google search and found a pattern for a "Baby Washcloth" that resembles a dishcloth. You can find it here:
http://www.provocraft.com/projects/projects.php?prdindex=kniftyknitter&dsp=project&idnum=21
And here's an article that leads to more information using the Knifty Knitter and finding patterns for it:
http://crafts.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Knifty_Knitter_Patterns
Hope that's somewhat helpful!
Trophy and Barb says
Do you know what a Nifty Knitter is? Is is a learning "tool" for young girls to learn how to knit. I honestly don't know what cast on and the rest of the instructions mean, but I wondered if you knew about this and if/how these dishcloths could be done on the knitter.
Joy Kincaid says
Michelle,
What a great idea! Thanks for mentioning it and posting the link! 🙂
Michelle says
If you make it bigger, you can turn it into a baby blanket. http://www.knitting-crochet.com/disclobabbla.html
Diana says
That's my favorite dishcloth pattern too! They are so fun to make, and they work really well for scrubbing too. Love the colors you used!
Joy Kincaid says
Diana~
Thank you for visiting and taking the time to leave such a lovely comment! I am just about to start some more of these…I love to make them for gifts!
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks, Nicola!
I know what you mean about finding it difficult to actually use these for washing dishes! I wanted to learn how to make these because I think they'd make nice gifts. 🙂 I received some as a wedding gift years ago, and I liked the fact that they were something both pretty and useful.
Hope the pattern works out for you!
Nicola says
Gorgeous dishcloths! I have been knitting since I was 4 (30 now) & I have been admiring knitted cloths on etsy for a while now. I think I would find it very difficult to use something so pretty for cleaning. Going to knit a few up anyway. Thanks for the pattern.
Joy Kincaid says
Oh, I can understand that, Tanya! That happens to me sometimes. For some reason it used to be worse when I was a child, but now I am able to work on things sometimes (I usually feel better if I'm in the front seat, and as a child I had to ride in the back seat). I'm sorry you get motion sick!
Wow, that's a long time to wait to use your gift! I thought I was the only one who did that! I'm notorious for hanging onto something because it looks too pretty to use! 🙂
Lilyofthevalley - Tanya says
Yes, that would work, if only I didn't get motion sick in the van when trying to do other things. 🙂
I thought I'd make it clear, I had a knitted dish cloth given to me as a bridal gift many years ago and just started to use it now. It was so pretty, it took me a long time to decide to use it. LOL
Joy Kincaid says
Thanks, Tanya! Oh, I think they are so fun. The main time I work on them is when we are driving to see relatives. We moved two hours from my husband's parents, and we go to see them once a month, so I have time to work on crafts in the van. 🙂
Lilyofthevalley - Tanya says
What delightful colours!! I've wanted to try making some, but ahven't yet got around to it, maybe this winter. I have one that was given to me for a bridal shower gift and I started using it and I like it. 🙂
Joy Kincaid says
Thank you so much, Mary! You're so right about the yarn therapy! I think they make such wonderful gifts, too. 🙂
Blessings to you!
Canadagirl says
I love knitted dish clothes. They are perfect yarn therapy. And I loved your photos of yours, so pretty. [o=
Blessings in Him<><
-Mary
Joy Kincaid says
Sarah~
Thank you! I really love knitting–I bet you'd like it!
Lorena~
Gracias! 🙂
Jarka~
You're welcome, and thank you so much for your kind words! I hope you like the pattern!
TJ~
Thanks for visiting and for following! I'm just picking knitting up again after 15 years!
TJ @ MeasuringFlower.com says
Very pretty! I started learning how to knit when I was in 4-H, but I forgot since then, lol. 🙂 I'll pry pick it up again someday once things slow down. 🙂 Hey, following back from http://www.MeasuringFlower.com. Thanks for linking up to MondayMingle! Have a great day!
Jarka says
thanks for the pattern!!! I've knitted my first dishcloth some time ago, and since then, I wanted to cast on another one – and this is exactly what I wanted!!!
I love the colors you're using:) lovely 🙂
♣♠Lorena♠♣ says
El tejido a palillos es muy hermoso!
kisses
Sarah says
These are beautiful, Joy! I love them! I need to learn how to knit as I would really like to make (and use!) these. I am going to bookmark this page as maybe I'll be able to give them a try this winter. Thank you for sharing!