When one mentions crochet, what comes to mind is usually a blanket, or afghan, in a ripple or granny square pattern, made of fuzzy, warm acrylic. However, one of the joys of crocheting is that there are so many varieties of yarn, each of which results in a different feel and type of product. I find it so enjoyable to crochet with 100% cotton yarn. Cotton products are heat resistant and appropriate for hot pads, potholders, summer clothing items and of course, dishcloths!
There are many types of cotton yarn, from the tiniest strands used for making doilies to regular worsted weight which is the best type for making dishcloths. Here is one option: Sugar and Cream
So, what do you do with a dishcloth?
Yes, you can actually use it to wash dishes! You can also wipe the table, use it as a trivet on your table or in the fridge, use it for dusting, or any other household task. A cotton dishcloth is machine wash and dry, and will help you avoid throwing out so many old sponges and paper towels, so it’s environmentally friendly. They can be made in whatever color, size or design fits your lifestyle and decor. A handmade cotton dishcloth makes a sweet gift for friends, family, teacher or neighbor. Finally, you can use a cotton “dishcloth” as a wash cloth! The gentle cotton fabric and slightly bumpy pattern creates a lovely scrub for your face or body!
Here are a few examples of dishcloths that I have made recently. First, the lovely white dishcloth, using the Suzette Stitch, which consists of a repeated pattern of one single crochet and one double crochet in the same stitch.
Here is a dishcloth in the shape of a flower, inspired by the Flower Power pattern and also inspired by the recent blooming of two happy daffodils at our home!
My Contest Designs
Around 12 years ago, I came upon a contest for designing a dishcloth, and I entered the black and white “Polyswirl” and the “Diamonds and Rust” patterns. I was so happy to be included in the Dishcloth a Day contest sponsored by a well known crochet site! Here are the links if you would like to make these easy dishcloths.
I belong to several Facebook groups, where I pick up ideas for making dishcloths. I always try to add a little something of my own to make each item unique and special. As always, be respectful of designers; we can sell finished crocheted items, but never reprint or share others’ patterns.
Daniel Art and Yarn has several of my hand-crocheted dishcloths available for sale – they make great gifts! Click here to view them.
Happy crocheting!