The best dishcloths for your kitchen are knit or crocheted! Check out this amazing collection of knitted dishcloth patterns for your kitchen.
An entire post about dishcloths? You betcha! If you’ve never knit a dishcloth before, then you are in for a real treat. Yes, really! There’s just something about these bite-size projects that soothe the soul. Plus, they’re perfectly practical! I think this blog post of beautiful knit dishcloths might be a bit like potato chips. How? Well, you probably won’t be able to stop yourself after just one!
I like to knit dishcloths because they are quite fun to make. A quick project is perfect for in-between larger projects, for procrastinating on larger projects, and for when you swear that you’ll never work on a larger project again (of course you eventually will anyway, but a break is always nice!). Plus, smaller projects are a great way to experiment with new stitch patterns and yarns without biting off more than you can chew.
You might have to rethink your whole worldview on dishcloths really, because we’ve got some gorgeous designs in store for you today! There even might be a few that you won’t quite be able to bring yourself to use as dishcloths – just because they are so pretty. If that’s the case, don’t worry, you can always use these free knit dishcloth patterns for more decorative purposes like potholders instead.
So, how do you knit a dishcloth anyway? Well, there’s no wrong or right way. Free knit dishcloth patterns come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. We have square ones and irregularly shaped ones. We have easy ones and more challenging ones. We have monochrome ones and multicolor ones. We have smaller ones and oversized ones too. There’s a little something for everyone here in this great round-up, you’ll see! Start scrolling and find out!
Tips for Knitting Dish Cloths
Knit and crocheted dishcloths are great alternatives to disposables. The texture makes for incredible cleaners and they are beautiful to boot!
Dishcloths are great projects when you are starting out knitting (or even crocheting). They are small, so you get the satisfaction of completing a project, they are functional, and it doesn’t matter what they look like – they still work!
Most knitted dishcloth patterns make a dishcloth that is around 9″ square, although some might be a bit smaller or larger than that.
The only supplies you need to knit a dishcloth are yarn, appropriate-sized knitting needles (check your pattern for this), and a yarn needle to weave in the ends (also called a tapestry needle).
What are the best yarns for knitted dishcloths?
The best yarns are going to be your cotton yarns. The cotton holds up well to repeated washings, soaks up water and spills, and tends to keep its shape better than a lot of other types of fibers.
If you don’t want to use 100% cotton yarns, a cotton blend can also work well. I know some people who prefer acrylic since you can easily wash and dry them, but I prefer a cotton yarn made for kitchen and bath use, and there are many out there as you’ll see in our pattern collection.
Don’t use wool for any dish or washcloth because it can be felt, which will make it useless.
Another choice, if you are looking for amazing texture, is the scrubby-type yarns. There are plenty out there and now you can even get s parkle and striped ones!
Now, let’s check out our patterns!
25+ Delightful Dishcloths to Knit, Use, and Gift!
Think outside the box with a free knit dishcloth pattern that’s shaped like a leaf. This is great for adding a unique touch to a plant-themed gift basket. You might think that this is a challenging knitting pattern, but it’s actually really easy. Both garter stitch and stockinette stitch pattern versions are available, offering versatility and simplicity for knitters looking to create something both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Designer: Tricksy Knitter
Yarn: Berroco Pure Pima (DK Weight #3)
Here’s another free knit dishcloth pattern with a fun and unique shape. It's important to note that you can make them using only knit stitches, along with yarn overs for increasing. For this pattern, an important technique to decrease the number of stitches on your needle is to simply leave some unworked. This method is easy peasy and effective, allowing you to create distinctive shapes with minimal complexity.
Designer: Simply Notable
Yarn: Knit Picks Dishie Multi (Aran Weight #4)
The designer of this delightful dishcloth warns, however, that the stitch pattern is quite addictive! A deceptively simple 3 stitch/4 row repeat makes quick work of this project. The texture is positively beautiful to look at, while also being brilliant for scrubbing. However, the best part is this reversible stitch pattern only calls for knit, purl, and slipped stitches, making it accessible yet engaging for knitters of all skill levels.
Designer: MyJewelThief Knits
Yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream Solids & Denim (Worsted Weight #4)
Aside from being super practical for household purposes, free knit dishcloth patterns are also a great way to learn and practice new stitch patterns. After all, learning more complicated stitchwork isn’t quite as daunting when the project is very small. I definitely recommend giving this one a try if you’d like some more knit foliage in the future!
Designer: Jan Eaton
Yarn: Bergère de France Sonora (Worsted Weight #4)
Take a gander at the intriguing stitchwork used in these free-knit dishcloth patterns. The textured surface of the Circle Cloth design from Hakucho, a favorite dishcloth among many, forms a pretty lattice of circles with raised edges. It’s a bit like backward bubble wrap, don’t you think? You can recreate this fun pattern using only knit, purl, and slipped stitches, making it a delightful project for those who enjoy unique textures in their knitting.
Designer: Hakucho
Yarn: (Worsted Weight #4)
The rich textures of cablework are perfect for scrubbing, making the Celtic Cables Dishcloth from Yarnspirations great for those who appreciate both beauty and functionality in their kitchen accessories. It’s almost too pretty to use as a dishcloth, but it is sure to look nice draped over your faucet. Personally, I would choose a darker color of yarn to help hide any potential stains, combining practicality with the elegant design of the cablework.
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream Solids & Denim (Worsted Weight #4)
For free knit dishcloth patterns that are perfect for gifting, knitting dishcloths like the Snakes & Ladders Washcloth from Leah Michelle Designs are a fantastic choice. The waffle stitch pattern is complemented by a simple slipped and garter stitch edging that helps the cloth lay flat. While it’s not reversible, each side of the dishcloth is attractive in its own way, making it a thoughtful and practical gift for friends and family.
Designer: Leah Michelle Designs
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton Solids (Worsted Weight #4)
Even beginner knitters can make dishcloths with pretty designs like this dragonfly. Commonly, all you need to know is how to knit and how to purl. This free knit dishcloth pattern is a good one to practice with and a good way to learn how to follow along with charts as well. Written instructions are also available, making it an accessible project for those just starting out in knitting.
Designer: Jackie Jones
Yarn: Rowan Handknit Cotton (DK Weight #3)
These graceful water lily cloths, falling under easy knit dishcloth patterns, would make an excellent addition to a spa gift basket. The unique and memorable shape is achieved through techniques like short rows, slipped stitches, and weaving in yarn while knitting. The contrast between the two colors is striking, beautifully framing each flower petal with color, making it a delightful project even for those new to knitting.
Designer: Knitting and So On
Yarn: (DK Weight #3)
If stranded colorwork intimidates you, then the mosaic technique is a wonderful alternative. All you need to know is how to garter stitch and how to slip stitches. The colors are carried up the edge of the dishcloth as you work, so you don’t have to worry about snipping them after each row and weaving in all the extra ends. This method simplifies the process, making it accessible and less daunting for those who might be new to working with multiple colors.
Designer: Kayla K’s Thrifty Ways
Yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream Solids & Denim (Worsted Weight #4)
Upgrade the basic seed stitch with twisted knit stitches every other row to make the beautiful and reversible rose stitch, using cotton yarn for dishcloths. The easy 4-row repeat is pure knitting bliss and it leaves your mind free to wander - or to watch Netflix. I’m especially fond of free-knit dishcloth patterns with hanging loops. You can hang them to dry and to admire, and the absorbent nature of cotton yarn makes it perfect for such projects.
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: Purl Soho Cotton Pure (Sport Weight #3)
Here’s a fun and free knit dishcloth pattern that only uses knit and purl stitches, a perfect craft project for knitters of all levels. I love the presentation idea shown here of making them in 3 similar shades. It gives this set an ombre effect, don’t you think? The design includes both written and charted instructions, making it accessible and enjoyable to craft. This one’s definitely a keeper for anyone looking to add a touch of handmade elegance to their kitchen or as a thoughtful gift.
Designer: DROPS Design
Yarn:Garnstudio DROPS Safran (Sport Weight #3)
Sometimes it’s hip to be a square, but other times it’s fun to play around with free knit dishcloth patterns for unique shapes - like hearts! The easy stitchwork in this design (all garter stitch) allows you to focus your mind on the shaping. Once you’ve made one with cotton, you can increase the difficulty of your next one by using scrubby yarn instead, allowing you to experiment with different textures while still enjoying the creative process.
Designer: The Knitting Circle
Yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream Solids & Denim (Worsted Weight #4)
Free knit dishcloth patterns with fun pictures, like this hot air balloon, are easier to make than you might think and perfect for homemade projects! All you need to know is how to knit and how to purl. I think a fun cloth like this might make children a bit less grumpy when bath time rolls around, don’t you? Both written and charted instructions are available, making it a delightful and practical project for knitters looking to add a touch of whimsy to their creations.
Designer: Daisy and Storm
Yarn: (DK Weight #3 or Worsted Weight #4)
Why settle for free knit dishcloth patterns when you can have a full set of kitchen helpers - dishcloth, dish towel, and scrubby? If you plan to upgrade your kitchen accessories, the beautiful diamond seed brocade stitch pattern forms a lovely latticework of textured stitches that are perfect for scrubbing. For extra scrubbing power, consider using scrubby yarn. This approach not only enhances the functionality but also adds a touch of handmade elegance to your kitchen.
Designer: Dykema Knits
Yarn: Mainstays 100% Cotton (Aran Weight #4)
Did you know that when you make fun images like these cacti using knit and purl stitches, the images will show on the reverse side of the cloth too? This is a great tip for those learning how to knit a simple dishcloth but want to add a unique touch. I am totally digging all the fun cacti stuff on my feed lately. It seems like they’re everyone’s favorite plant at the moment. And they look so good in variegated yarn too! This approach adds a playful element to your knitting, making it both enjoyable and stylish.
Designer: Knittle & Pearl
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton Scents (Worsted Weight #4)
Who said that free-knit dishcloth patterns have to be complicated? These garter stitch cloths couldn’t be simpler, making them a perfect DIY project. But what they lack in intricacy, they more than make up for in charm. Bold colors and a bold contrasting stripe really make these dishcloths look sharp. One skein of each color yields 3 cloths when you switch up the main and contrast colors on the 2nd and 3rd cloths, offering a fun and easy way to add a splash of color to your kitchen with a homemade touch.
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: Purl Soho Field Linen (Sport Weight #3)
The Cove Dishcloth is sure to turn some heads with its unique stitch pattern, making it a great project to showcase your chosen yarn for dishcloths. You might be wondering what stitches they used. Would you believe me if I told you that it’s all knit and purl stitches? A combination of two different stitch patterns that are traditionally used for ribbing gives you a whole new look. This approach demonstrates how versatile and visually interesting simple stitches can be, especially when paired with the right yarn.
Designer: Truly Crochet
Yarn: Rico Design Creative Cotton Aran (Aran Weight #4)
Double Dutch Dishcloth - say that 3 times fast! If you are looking for free knit dishcloth patterns that are somewhere in between super easy and overly complicated, then you may have just found your perfect pattern! You’ll be using just basic stitches - knit and purl - but the 12-row repeat adds a lot of depth to the design.
Designer: The Kitchen Sink Shop
Yarn: Estelle Yarns Sudz (Worsted Weight #4)
Here’s another one of our intermediate free-knit dishcloth patterns, so that you can enjoy more texture in your kitchen essentials. The Irish moss stitch (also called the American moss stitch or the double moss stitch) is a variation of the seed stitch. This stitch pattern not only looks quite nice but also delivers tons of texture - both great qualities to have in a dishcloth! The design is perfect for those who want to add a bit of challenge to their knitting while creating something both beautiful and practical.
Designer: Handy Little Me
Yarn: Rico Design Creative Cotton Aran (Aran Weight #4)
For free easy knit dishcloth patterns that are easier than they look, do be sure and check out the fabulous Woven Waves from NichKnit Designs. The design uses slip-stitch knitting techniques along with an i-cord border to make a really attractive dishcloth. You can opt to use a garter stitch border instead if you’d prefer an easier knit.
Designer: NichKnit Designs
Yarn: Knit Picks Dishie Solids (Worsted Weight #4)
Pretty floral motifs are always a popular choice, especially when it comes to easy knit dishcloth projects. This design features a seed stitch border and uses knit and purl stitches to create the tulip design. Two size options are given - one for DK weight yarn and one for worsted weight yarn, making it versatile for different preferences. I’d love to see this design done in a variegated pink and purple, adding a touch of color and elegance to this practical kitchen item.
Designer: Daisy and Storm
Yarn: (DK Weight #3 or Worsted Weight #4)
You can’t go wrong with the basket stitch for nice-looking dishcloth knitting. The free-knit dishcloth pattern is shown here in neutral shades of gray and a soft pink color called Old Rose. At 10 x 10 inches they are a bit more generously sized than the standard 8 x 8 size dishcloths. There are two dishcloth designs available from this company.
Designer: Sys Fredens
Yarn: Hobbii Rainbow Cotton 8/4 Solid (Fingering Weight #1)
Here’s another one of our free knit dishcloth patterns that embraces the mosaic color-changing technique, perfect for those interested in knitting a dishcloth with a bit of flair. A lot of folks favor this technique over stranded colorwork because there are no changing colors in the middle of a row. If you know how to knit, purl, and slip stitches, then you should be good to go! This method simplifies the colorwork process while still allowing you to create intricate, eye-catching designs.
Designer: Knit House on Main
Yarn: Rowan Handknit Cotton (Worsted Weight #4)
Washing the dishes might almost be fun when you get to use a knit dishcloth from these free dishcloth knitting patterns that’s as pretty as this one! The scrubby yarn used here was specifically designed for cleaning, and the self-striping effect gives you the benefit of a multicolor design without any extra ends to weave in. This approach combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, making your kitchen chores a little more delightful.
Designer: Red Heart Design Team
Yarn: Red Heart Scrubby Stripes (Bulky Weight #5)
The magic of knitting can make even something as mundane as doing the dishes just a little bit more enjoyable. Will you be using one of these free knit dishcloth patterns to whip something up for yourself or for a gift? Tell me all about it in the comments below!
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I’ll see you next week for another free knitting pattern round-up. Make sure to follow the blog so you never miss a post. <3
Happy Knitting!
Beverly
These are awesomeness usually I do granny’s favorite as my go to but Now well I mo have to switch thanks 😊
amanda
Glad you like them! 🙂