This beginner face scrubby is intentionally designed as a first knitting project and works well for adult beginners learning to knit. The pattern limits techniques to one stitch (the knit stitch), uses a small flat square shape, and works up quickly so you can practice tension and stitch counting without getting overwhelmed. There is no shaping, no stitch pattern changes, and no decisions to make once you begin knitting.
This article explains how to knit a beginner face scrubby, with step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. You will knit a small flat piece using only the knit stitch, then bind off and weave in your ends to create a finished scrubby you can use every day.
On this page: About · Materials · Gauge · Abbreviations · Skills Used · Printable PDF · Instructions · Care · Sharing
About This Beginner Face Scrubby
This face scrubby is one of the easiest knit pieces you can make, so it is perfect for beginners. If you’re learning to knit with the free knitting lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide, you can start by making this face scrubby.
Aside from being a great way to practice the knit stitch, these scrubbies are especially functional. They work well as reusable makeup removing pads, gentle washcloths, or quick little gifts.
Materials
Yarn
Worsted weight cotton yarn. One face scrubby uses about 19 yards (0.4 oz.).
Shown in Lily Sugar ‘n Cream 100% Cotton Yarn in “Robins Egg” and “White“.
*Weights estimated with Lily Sugar ’n Cream yarn; other yarn weights may vary.
Knitting Needles
- Long circular needles: 36-inch (91 cm) US No. 7 (4.5 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)
- Or straight needles: 9-inch (23 cm) US No. 7 (4.5 mm) straight needles (or size needed to obtain gauge)
Notions
Gauge
19 stitches x 26 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on US No. 7 (4.5 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.) Exact gauge is not critical for this project.
Abbreviations
k = knit
Skills Used
This beginner face scrubby is a great first knitting project because it’s simple, fast, and easy to finish. To make the beginner face scrubby, you’ll only need to know how to:
This scrubby is worked in garter stitch, which means every row is made using the knit stitch. Repeating the same stitch over a short project like this is a great way to practice and build confidence.
As you knit, try to keep your stitches even on the needles. They should be snug, but not tight. The stitches should slide easily so you can insert your needle into each loop without forcing it. Finding that balance takes practice, and this small project makes it easier to learn.
Want to knit along with me? Visit the Learn to Knit Guide for step-by-step lessons, including cast on, knit stitch, bind off, and finishing. 🧶
Prefer to knit offline?
This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.
- Includes complete, row-by-row instructions
- Easy to print or use on your tablet
- Supports my small business 💖
Instructions: Beginner Face Scrubby in Garter Stitch
(Measures about 3 inches x 3 inches after washing in cold water; about 3.5 inches x 3.25 inches before washing.)
Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit flat, turning after each row.
Row 1: Cast on 14 stitches. Turn.
Rows 2–27: k 14. (14 stitches) Turn.
Row 28: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends.
In cold water, hand wash or machine wash on delicate. Block while still wet, ensuring the scrubby is roughly 3 inches square, then allow to air dry.
Save or print this pattern
Get the PDF version of this Beginner Face Scrubby knitting pattern.
Care
If you use cotton yarn, your finished scrubby will be machine washable. To keep it looking its best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate in cold water. You may tumble dry on low or lay flat to dry.
🛁 Read more Knitwear Care Tips
Copyright, Sharing, and Selling Finished Items
©2021, Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels, LLC. Revised 2025.
This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.
If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.
I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.
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