Simple Knitted Dishcloth – Free Pattern

When you are learning how to knit, a simple dishcloth is the ultimate dream project. It's small, quick to finish, and only requires you to learn three things: casting on, the knit stitch, and binding off. The result is a lovely, practical washcloth you will actually use!

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: 1 skein (50 g / 1.75 oz) of cotton yarn in DK weight (e.g., Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK, Lily Sugar'n Cream, or Drops Cotton Light).
• Needles: Size US 64 mm straight or circular needles (preferably bamboo or wood, as the yarn slips off less easily).
• Other tools: Scissors and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Sizing

For a simple dishcloth, gauge is not critical, but it's a great opportunity to practice measuring it! The target is a gauge of approximately 22 stitches per 4 in10 cm.

Sizing: Finished dishcloth will measure approximately 8.25 × 8.25 in (21 × 21 cm).

Step-by-Step Pattern

1. Cast on: Cast on 50 stitches on size US 64 mm needles. We recommend using the Long-Tail Cast-On method.
2. Knit the cloth:
   • Knit all stitches on the needle (knit stitch).
   • Turn your work.
   • Repeat: Knit all stitches back again.
   Continue this way, back and forth, until your dishcloth measures about 8 in21 cm, or forms a perfect square. This stitch pattern is called garter stitch because it forms ridges on both sides.
3. Bind off: Bind off all stitches loosely, so that the edge doesn't roll or pinch.

Finishing and Weaving Ends

When you have bound off, cut the yarn leaving a tail of about 6 in15 cm. Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle. Weave the end invisibly through the stitches on the back side of the cloth (sew about 1.5 in / 3–4 cm in one direction, and then 1 in / 2–3 cm back to lock it). Repeat with the tail from the cast-on edge.

Trim the excess threads close to the fabric. Congratulations, you have completed your very first knitted dishcloth!