I think it’s about time to put all of our knitting skills together to start creating the useful knits you want. Since flat, cotton washcloths are the most simple of the knits, let’s start there. But, we are going tiny! So you can have a finished knit in no time flat, we’ll work on my free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern. Open that pattern in a new tab or print it to use as you follow along with the lesson here.
Watch the full process here or continue reading to see everything in smaller steps.
What Do Materials I Need to Knit a Washcloth?
Yarn to Knit Washcloths
One ball of Lily Sugar ‘n Cream 100% Cotton Yarn in “Beach Ball Blue,” “Robins Egg,” (or your favorite color).
First, cast on. This means you will be wrapping the number of stitches called for in the pattern around your knitting needle. So, for your tiny washcloth, use the long-tail cast on method to put 14 stitches on your knitting needles.
How to Start Your Knitting – The Long-Tail Cast On for Beginners
Step 2: Turn Your Work
When you reach the end of your row, it’s time to turn your work.
How to Turn Your Work in Knitting for Beginners – What to Do at the End of a Row
Step 3: Knit
Now that you have your 14 stitches cast on, it’s time to create your washcloth. We’ll be using the garter stitch, which means knitting every row. This creates a lovely, squishy texture that’s perfect for washing.
Row 1: Knit across all 14 stitches.
How to Make the Knit Stitch
Rows 2-27: Turn your work at then end of each row. Then, just keep knitting every row until your piece measures approximately 4 inches square. Remember, every row is just knitting – no purling needed! This repetition is perfect for building muscle memory.
Step 4: Bind Off
Ready to finish? Time to bind off!
How to Take Knitting Stitches Off the Needles – Bind Off Knit Stitches
Step 5: Weave in Loose Ends
Finally, we’ll weave in those loose ends to make your washcloth ready for use.
How I Weave in and Tie Off Loose Ends on Flat Knitting
Troubleshooting Tips:
Counting Stitches: You should have 14 stitches on your needle at the end of every row.
Tension Check: Your knitting should feel firm but not tight.
Edges: Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly straight – this comes with practice!
Caring for hand knits can feel overwhelming, but after a decade of knitting (and plenty of mistakes), I’ve learned what actually works. As a solo parent and the creator behind PurlsAndPixels, I’ve found practical ways to keep handknits beautiful, even with a busy life and an active child. Let me share my best tips and a personal story that taught me one of my biggest lessons.
Essential Knit Care: What Actually Works (A Recovering Perfectionist’s Guide) 🧶
Let me share a secret: I’m surprisingly reckless with my knits. And you know what? They’re doing just fine! Here’s my real-world, honest-to-goodness care method:
Basic Washing Steps (The Truth Edition)
Confession time – I use my washing machine! 🤫 Here is what I do to care for a handknit item:
THE ONE ABSOLUTE RULE: Never. Ever. Ever. Put your knits in the dryer unless you’re planning to felt them or want a surprise doll sweater. Always lay flat to dry. This is the hill I’ll die on.
Fiber-Specific Care (The Reality Version):
Wool: Tougher than you think! Cold water, delicate or handwash cycle, no drama.
Cotton: Can handle a bit more, but why push it?
Acrylics: Fun fact – acrylic is literally plastic in fiber form. And you know what happens to plastic when it gets too hot? Yep, it melts. Hot water or dryer heat will turn your beautiful acrylic sweater into a sad, crackly mess. Stick to cold water and lay flat to dry.
Blends: When in doubt, treat it like your precious wool.
Remember: Your handknits aren’t as delicate as the internet might have you believe. They can handle real life – just keep them away from that dryer and warm/hot water!
The Velcro Incident: A Knitting Care Lesson Learned
My first ‘perfect’ knit was a baby blanket for my son. I felt like every stitch was flawless, the tension perfect. It was my masterpiece. Then came the Velcro incident.
A harmless-looking toy snagged the blanket, pulling stitches and leaving snags everywhere. My heart sank. That first project, meant to be a keepsake, now carried imperfections.
But here’s the thing about knitting (and life) – perfection isn’t always the point. Those snags became part of our story, marking moments of real life with an active little one. Still, I learned some valuable lessons about protecting precious knits!
Sneaky Snag Culprits to Watch Out For:
Velcro: The knitwear destroyer! Check those baby toys, shoes, and jackets.
Zippers: They look innocent but can catch your stitches in a flash.
Jewelry: Those dainty rings and bracelets? Stitch snatchers in disguise.
Pet Claws: Our furry friends don’t mean to, but those little paws can pull.
Rough Surfaces: Beware of splintery wood and rough upholstery.
Pro Tip: When gifting baby knits, I now include a gentle note about Velcro awareness. It’s saved many a blanket from meeting the same fate!
Remember: While we can’t prevent every snag in life (or knitting), we can be mindful of these sneaky culprits. Your handknits deserve that much! 🌿
Cozy Knits Storage Solutions That Work 🧶
Living in a small space has taught me the art of storing precious handknits. Here’s what really works (and what I actually use!):
Fold with Love: Stack your sweaters like I do here – see how the teal sweater keeps its shape? Proper folding prevents shoulder distortion and maintains your knits’ natural structure.
Clear Storage Champions: Using transparent containers (like this one!) lets you easily spot your favorites while keeping them dust-free. Plus, you can see exactly what you have at a glance!
Layer with Care: Notice how these colorwork pieces are carefully stacked? This prevents any snagging between delicate patterns. That pink and orange fair isle beauty stays perfect!
Seasonal Organization: Sort by season and store similar items together – makes switching out your wardrobe so much easier
Remember: Your handknits are treasures that deserve thoughtful storage. With these simple solutions, they’ll stay beautiful for years of cozy wearing! ✨
Emergency Hand-Knit Care
Accidents happen, especially with kids or pets! Here’s how to handle them:
Snags:
Don’t pull or cut the snagged string.
Use a crochet hook to gently pull the yarn back through.
Work from the wrong side if possible.
Gently stretch the piece to try to bring the yarn back into it’s original shape.
Stains:
Blot (don’t rub).
Rinse with cool water immediately.
Test cleaning solutions on a hidden spot before applying.
Holes:
Catch them early.
Use matching yarn to repair.
Seek professional help for large or intricate repairs.
Build an Essential Hand-Knit Care Kit
Keep these tools in mason jars for quick fixes (Amazon Affiliate Links):
Pro tip: Save yarn scraps from each project for future repairs by winding them into tiny balls (lesson here) or around old gift cards and storing them with these supplies!
Wash knits before storing to remove oils and dirt.
Add cedar or lavender sachets for moth prevention.
Store in a cool, dry place.
Fall/Winter:
Check for moth damage before use.
Refresh cedar blocks or sachets.
Air out stored items before wearing.
Real-Life Knitting Care Routines
Life gets messy. Here’s how I balance precious handknits with reality:
Spot clean whenever possible to extend time between washes.
Air out knits after wear to freshen naturally.
Keep a basic care kit on hand for quick fixes.
Address issues promptly to avoid permanent damage.
Embrace imperfections—they tell the story of a loved, well-used knit.
Remember: Perfect Is Overrated
That baby blanket with Velcro snags? My son still treasures it. Every imperfection tells a story of love, learning, and real life. While caring for knits is important, the “oops” moments often become cherished memories.
Pro Care Tips From My Knitting Journey
Always check pockets before washing.
Keep spare buttons in a labeled jar.
When in doubt, air it out.
Share Your Stories
What’s your first “perfect” project? Any care disasters you’ve learned from? How do you balance real life with precious handknits? I’d love to hear your stories! Drop a comment or send me a message on social media. Find me @PurlsAndPixels on all platforms. 🧶
A new year brings a world of possibilities for knitters. Whether you’re dreaming of cozy sweaters, intricate colorwork, or mastering new techniques, a clear project plan can turn those creative dreams into reality. Organize your space and then plan your next knitting projects with the free Knitting Project Checklist and Knitting Planner at the end of this article. Let’s get intentional about making this your most inspired knitting year yet!
Essential Steps for Knitting Success
1. Stash Assessment
Before diving into new projects, take stock of your yarn:
Inventory your yarn by weight, yardage, and fiber content.
Find your favorites: Note which yarns spark joy or inspire ideas.
Fill in the gaps: Identify missing weights or colors.
De-stash thoughtfully: Plan projects to use yarn that’s been sitting idle.
2. Skill Development Goals
Set intentions for leveling up your knitting this year:
List techniques you want to learn, like brioche, entrelac, or colorwork.
Seek patterns that teach those skills in manageable steps.
Plan for progression—start simple, then tackle complex designs.
Schedule dedicated time for tutorials or classes.
3. Project Timeline
Map out projects by season to stay on track:
Winter (Jan-Mar): Cozy accessories, temperature tracking projects, or indoor comfort items.
Spring (Apr-Jun): Lightweight garments, garden-inspired makes, or Mother’s Day gifts.
Summer (Jul-Sep): Portable projects, beach/travel knitting, or early holiday prep.
Fall (Oct-Dec): Gift knitting, warm layers, or festive decorations.
4. Supply Organization
An organized toolkit makes for smoother knitting:
Take inventory of needles, notions, and tools.
Review storage solutions to ensure everything is easy to find.
Maintain your tools—sharpen scissors, replace worn needles, and clean your knitting bag.
Match patterns to your stash for immediate starts.
6. Comfort Zone Expansion
Stretch your creativity by trying something new:
Experiment with unfamiliar yarn weights or fibers.
Play with bold colorwork or gradients.
Try challenging techniques like double knitting or cables.
Join a knit-along (KAL) focused on skill-building.
Tips for Knitting Joy and Productivity
Start Small: Kick off the year with quick wins like hats, mittens, or dishcloths to build momentum.
Track Your Progress: Use photos or a notebook to document your projects, celebrate successes, and learn from mistakes.
Stay Flexible: Allow space in your schedule for spontaneous inspiration or unexpected challenges.
Build Community: Share your goals with fellow knitters for encouragement and accountability.
Download Your Free Knitting Planner PDF
Plan your year of knitting with these two printable PDFs. Print the knitting project checklists as many times as you need to keep track of all of your patterns this year.
This knitting project checklist isn’t about rigid rules—it’s a flexible guide to help you find joy and creativity in your knitting journey. Ready to get started? Download your free project planner and let’s make this your most organized and inspired year yet! ✨
Knit Your Moments of Thankfulness into a Cozy Blanket 🌟
A Free Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Friends, let’s be honest: 2024 brought its share of challenges. Between solo parenting, running PurlsAndPixels, and navigating life’s daily surprises, I sometimes forgot to pause and appreciate the small moments. That’s why I’m starting 2025 with intention, and I’d love for you to join me in a mindful knitting project. At the break of the new year, I’ll be starting a Gratitude Blanket as a way to track all the joy this year will bring.🧶
Here is an idea of what your Gratitude Blanket might look like.
Tiny Bumps in the Plan are OK!
Living far from a major city leaves me without yarn on demand. I’ve ordered the fluffy wool blend online, but it’s delayed until January 10th. This means I can’t get started as planned, but that’s just fine! I’m still going to share the pattern with you, so you can start at your leisure. But remember, this blanket is meant to be a reflection of a year’s worth of happiness – don’t let setbacks (like delayed yarn) steal your joy. Have fun and take your time!
The Magic of a Gratitude Blanket
For this blanket, you will work in very simple garter stitch (knit stitches only). Instead of worrying over stitch count, the Gratitude Blanket pattern is meant to let your mind wander away from the project and reflect on the joy each stitch represents.
This isn’t just another knitting project, it’s a chance to weave mindfulness into every day. Each stripe tells a story. Choose colors that make you feel happy and inspired. For me, its:
Peaceful blue rows for quiet cabin moments with my son and our pets.
Sunny yellow stripes for unexpected joys (like perfect knitting weather!).
Growth-inspired green sections for personal victories, big and small.
Daily Practice Guide
Find a Quiet Moment: Mine is usually early morning with coffee.
Reflect: Think about one thing you’re grateful for.
Choose a Color Based on the Feeling:
Blue: Peace and calm (like snowy mountain views).
Yellow: Joy and happiness (like my son’s laughter).
Green: Growth and achievement (like mastering a new pattern).
Knit Your Row: Hold that thought as you knit—it’s like stitching the memory into the blanket.
Gratitude Prompts
Need inspiration? Here are some moments I’m thankful for:
Morning coffee watching the sunrise over the mountains.
A kind comment from our knitting community.
Finally working out that tricky cable pattern.
Cozy cabin moments by the fire.
The peace of knitting while snow falls.
Small victories in parenting or business.
Making this Gratitude Blanket Free Knitting Pattern
With such a simple stitch pattern, even beginners can knit this blanket. Get free knitting lessons that walk you through every step along the way at my Learn to Knit Index. You will need to know:
Three to six 129-yard (8 ounce) skeins of super bulky weight (No. 6) yarn* in your three favorite colors (shown in “Air Force,” “Mustard,” and “Succulent” Hometown Super Bulky Yarn by Lion Brand).
Baby size uses about 9 skeins of super bulky yarn
Throw size uses about 15 skeins of super bulky yarn
Queen size uses about 18 skeins of super bulky yarn
*Weights estimated with Hometown Super Bulky Yarn by Lion Brand; other yarn weights may vary.
12 stitches x 15 rows = 4 x 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch on No. 13 (9.0 mm) needles.
Abbreviations
k = knit
Instructions: Baby Size Gratitude Blanket
(40 inches x 40 inches or desired length)
Instructions: Use the long tail cast on. Knit flat, turning after each row. Make color changes as your joyful memories change. You can start a new row or just start knitting mid-row with a new, happy color for each knitting session.
Row 1: Cast on 146 stitches. (146 stitches) Turn.
Rows 2 – 159: k 146. (146 stitches). Turn. [Work should measure 39.75 inches at this point]
Row 160: Bind off loosely.
Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.
Instructions: Throw Size Gratitude Blanket
(50 inches x 60 inches or desired length)
Instructions: Use the long tail cast on. Knit flat, turning after each row. Make color changes as your joyful memories change. You can start a new row or just start knitting mid-row with a new, happy color for each knitting session.
Row 1: Cast on 182 stitches. (182 stitches) Turn.
Rows 2 – 239: k 182. (182 stitches). Turn. [Work should measure 59.75 inches at this point]
Row 240: Bind off loosely.
Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.
Instructions: Queen Size Gratitude Blanket
(90 inches x 90 inches or desired length)
Instructions: Use the long tail cast on. Knit flat, turning after each row. Make color changes as your joyful memories change. You can start a new row or just start knitting mid-row with a new, happy color for each knitting session.
Row 1: Cast on 328 stitches. (328 stitches) Turn.
Rows 2 – 359: k 328. (328 stitches). Turn. [Work should measure 89.75 inches at this point]
Row 360: Bind off loosely.
Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch (20.32-cm) tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.
Keep it Visible: Mine will live by my favorite knitting chair.
No Pressure: Catch up during quiet weekends if needed.
Track Your Progress: Take photos to share your journey (great for Instagram!).
Date Your Gratitude Entries in a Journal: Each date becomes part of your story.
Make it easy on yourself: Use the magic knot to join new colors and save time weaving loose ends.
Why This Project Works
Mindful: Each row helps us pause and reflect.
Achievable: Simple enough for even the busiest days.
Meaningful: Creates a physical reminder of our journey.
Cozy: The end result? A warm hug of memories.
Start Your Journey
I’m casting on for the new year, and I’d love for you to join me! I’ll be sharing my progress with the Gratitude Blanket pattern here and on Instagram @PurlsAndPixels, along with the moments that inspired each color choice.
Ready to cast on your gratitude journey? Whether you start on New Year’s Day or jump in mid-year, each row adds to your story of thankfulness. Share your progress with #GratitudeKnitAlong. I can’t wait to see your blankets grow alongside mine! And I’m excited to see what colors you choose! What will your first grateful row represent? 🌿
Let’s make 2025 a year of mindful making, one stitch at a time. 💞
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.
A Free Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Friends! Today, I was trying to spruce up the cabin for our Christmas festivities, when I noticed that this grumpy llama needed some handmade holiday joy. So I decided to whip up a quick Santa hat to cheer him up. While I was at it, I wrote down the Christmas knitting pattern to share with you here as a little gift. I think this mini Santa hat ornament will add cozy magic to any tree, garland, wreath, or gift box. Or use a mini-holiday hat to make your everyday home decor just a bit more festive, like I did with our grinchy llama. 🦙
Making this Mini Santa Hat Ornament Free Knitting Pattern
Materials
Knitting Needles:
Double Point Needles (DPNs)
7-inch (18 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) DPNs (or three sizes smaller than needles used to obtain gauge)
7-inch (18 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) DPNs (or size needed to obtain gauge)
Or Long Circular Needles
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle (or three sizes smaller than needles used to obtain gauge)
Yarn:
One 315-yard (6 ounce) skein each of worsted weight yarn* in your choice of colors. (Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “White” [Color 1] and “Red” [Color 2]).
Ornament size uses about 15.75 yards (0.3 oz.) of Color 1 (including 1-inch pom-pom) and 15.75 yards (0.3 oz.) of Color 2
*Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).
Other Tools:
One stitch marker, a measuring tape, and a darning needle.
Gauge
18 stitches x 24 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 8 (5.0 mm) needles.
Abbreviations
k = knit
p = purl
** = repeat the pattern between the asterisks
k2tog = knit two together
Instructions: Mini Santa Hat Ornament
(3.5 inches (8.89 cm) by 5 inches (12.7 cm) tall, without pom-pom)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.For Double Point Needles, follow DPNinstructions written in italics. For circular needles, follow Magic Loop instructions in bold. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.
[Using No. 5 DPNs or long circular needles] [With Color 1/White] Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches. Divide onto 3 DPNs (12 on 1st, 8 on 2nd, and 12 on 3rd DPN). Or separate stitches on long circular needles for Magic Loop (16 on each side). (32 stitches)
Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and *k, p* x 16. (32 stitches)
Rows 3 – 5: *k, p* x 16. (32 stitches)
[Switch to No. 8 DPNs or longcircular needles] [With Color 2/Red] Rows 6 – 18: k 56. (56 stitches) {Work should measure 6 inches at this point.}
Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With darning needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 8 stitches. Weave in ends. Block if desired.
Attach a tiny (about 1 inch [2.54 cm] in diameter) white pom-pom to the closed end of the hat.
Optional Mitten Holiday Ornament Hanger
Choose a pretty ribbon and tie it in a loop with a bow to the cuff of the mitten. Alternatively, using the same yarn or a contrasting color, you can use a size F/3.75 MM crochet hook to chain a 6-inch cord by following these instructions:
Ensuring you leave a 4-inch tail before your slip knot, chain 35. Cut yarn and pull through, leaving a 4-inch tail. Pull one end of the chain through an open knitted loop on your Ornament Sized Santa Hat. Tie a bow using the two loose yarn tails of the chain.
Print the Mitten Holiday Ornament Free Knitting Pattern
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.
See purlsandpixels.com for more great patterns or to order this item handmade by me. I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.
Beginner’s Guide to Knitting: Learn Essential Stitches & Projects Step by Step
Hi there! I’m Liz Chandler, and yes, I still have my first wonky dishcloth. It’s a little uneven, but it’s a badge of honor. We all start somewhere, and that’s exactly what this guide is all about. Whether you’re picking up needles for the first time or looking for beginner-friendly projects, I’ve got you covered. 🧶
Every expert knitter was once a beginner, myself included! That’s why I created this tracker to help you build confidence with every stitch. It’s packed with 30+ essential techniques broken into manageable steps, so you’ll always know what to learn next. And don’t forget, this sheet aligns with my free online knitting lessons and premium textbook knitting lessons, so you can learn the skills you need in the way you prefer.
Let’s start with the basics. These are the tools I recommend for every beginner knitter. You don’t need fancy gadgets to get going, just a few essentials (check out my complete knitter’s must-haves guide for more details):
Size 8 (5mm) straight needles
Light-colored worsted weight yarn (trust me, this makes everything easier to see)
Scissors
Tapestry needle
Stitch markers
🌟 Pro Tip: Light-colored yarn isn’t just beginner-friendly—it’s mistake-friendly. Spotting errors is so much easier when your yarn isn’t a deep, moody navy blue.
Basic Knitting Techniques for Beginners
Let’s talk about Continental knitting, my absolute favorite way to get those needles dancing! Unlike English-style knitting (where you throw the yarn), Continental style is all about efficiency and flow – think of it as the ‘work smarter, not harder’ approach to creating cozy goodness. You hold the yarn in your left hand (yes, lefties, this one’s a gift for you!), and instead of throwing the yarn, you’re basically picking it with your right needle. It’s like a beautiful little choreographed dance that, once you get the hang of it, makes your knitting practically fly off the needles!
I’ve found that my students who switch to Continental style often see their knitting speed double, and who doesn’t want to finish that chunky sweater before the next ice age? Plus, if you’re coming from a crochet background, Continental style will feel surprisingly natural since you’re holding the yarn the same way. Trust me, once you go Continental, you’ll wonder how you ever knitted any other way!
🌟 Starting with my Face Scrubby (your future spa buddy!), you’ll get those basic stitches under your belt without the pressure. Once you’ve mastered the basics, my Beginner Scarf helps you find your rhythm – think of it as your knitting meditation. The Seed Stitch Washcloth introduces you to the purl stitch, and before you know it, you’ll be ready for my Cozy Headband where circular needles become your new best friend. Next, learn to Decrease (shrink the length of your rows) to round out the top of a beanie hat. Still feeling adventurous? My Fingerless Gloves teach you the art of increases, and finally, my Classic Mittens let you show off everything you’ve learned.
💞 Each pattern builds on the last, adding just one new technique at a time. It’s like stacking cozy building blocks. The best part? You’ll never feel overwhelmed because you’re already familiar with 90% of each new pattern.
It’s time to tackle hats! Now, you’ll learn to make decreases to round off the top of a hat. They’re surprisingly quick and satisfying once you get the hang of it!
Making gloves introduces you to knitted increases, which is a fancy way of saying adding stitches to a row. Plus, these mitts make great gifts and are a fun way to build precision and dexterity.
You’ve made it to the final round of beginner knitting!
Skills You’ll Master:
Thumb gussets
Advanced shaping
What You’ll Need:
Size 8 (5mm) circular needles
Soft Acrylic or wool worsted weight yarn
Stitch markers
Complete Knitting Guide Resources
💻 Online Lessons: You can find all my free online knitting lessons indexed on my Learn to Knit page! Start at the top and work your way down the list to begin making your own beautiful knits.
You can knit all the washcloths with US No. 7 (4.5 mm) needles. I like 36 inch long circular needles, because you can use them for all sorts of projects in the future.
Dishcloths and Washcloths Designed by Liz Chandler
From simple basics to intricate color designs, my hand-knit washcloth and dishcloth patterns have something for every knitter! These practical, eco-friendly creations are the unsung heroes of a cozy, functional home; they’re perfect for showcasing your knitting skills while adding a handmade touch to your space. Whether you’re just picking up your needles or ready to tackle a creative challenge, my washcloth and dishcloth collection at PurlsAndPixels has you covered. Explore these beginner-friendly and advanced designs to create something both cute and useful! 🧶✨
How to Knit a Washcloth
Shop All Washcloth & Dishcloth Knitting Patterns Designed by Liz Chandler
Add a touch of love to your skincare routine with this heart-shaped face scrubby. It’s a charming addition to any bathroom and makes for a thoughtful handmade gift.
This beginner-friendly pattern introduces the seed stitch, resulting in a textured, absorbent, and exfoliating washcloth. Crafted with 100% cotton yarn, it’s perfect for personal use or as a thoughtful gift.
This pattern features a simple ribbed design, making it a quick and satisfying project for knitters of all levels. The ribbing adds extra absorbency and durability.
This pattern introduces a two-tone ribbed design, adding a pop of color and texture to your dishcloth collection. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Featuring a stylish double-stripe ribbed design, this pattern offers instructions for three sizes: face scrubby, washcloth, and hand towel. It’s a wonderful project to add a touch of elegance to your kitchen or bathroom.
Offering a classic striped design, this collection provides patterns for various sizes, allowing you to create a cohesive set of washcloths and face scrubbies.
Double up the yarn and knit a thicker, more durable washcloth in half the time! By holding two strands of yarn together as you work, you’ll create a plush, absorbent fabric that’s perfect for scrubbing dishes or pampering your skin.
Yarn Selection: Opt for 100% cotton yarn for its absorbency and durability.
Gauge Check: Ensure your gauge matches the pattern to achieve the desired size and texture.
Finishing Touches:Block your finished pieces to enhance their shape and appearance.
Knitting dishcloths and washcloths is an excellent way to practice your stitchwork, cozy up your home, and make presents. Try these patterns from PurlsAndPixels to craft beautiful, handmade additions for your kitchen and bath or to gift to loved ones.
Let’s talk about the ultimate homesteading accessory. Nope, it’s not a chicken coop or a shiny new canner (although those are fabulous). It’s a pair of knitting needles! Yes, knitting is the unsung hero of homestead hobbies, and if you’re not already in on this cozy little secret, it’s time to grab some yarn and get started.
Why Knitting and Homesteading Go Hand-in-Hand
Picture this: a crackling fire, a cup of tea in your favorite mug, and you sitting in your comfiest chair knitting a cozy scarf while the bread rises in the oven. Can you feel the warmth and satisfaction already? Knitting fits seamlessly into the homesteading lifestyle because it’s about creating something with your own two hands—just like gardening, baking, or DIY projects.
Plus, knitted items are practical. Socks, sweaters, hats—they’re not just cozy; they’re necessities when you’re braving frosty mornings to feed the chickens or chop wood.
The Patterns You Need Right Now
If you’re ready to dive in, I’ve got you covered with beginner-friendly knitting patterns that are as practical as they are pretty. Start with my Easy Peasy Washcloth Pattern, perfect for scrubbing those farmhouse sinks, or try the Warm and Toasty Hat Pattern, which will keep you snug through snowy winters. And for the advanced knitters out there, my Rustic Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern is a must for curling up on the couch after a long day.
You can find these free patterns and more in my Knitting Patterns Page (go ahead, click—I promise it’s worth it).
Knitting isn’t just about the finished product; it’s about the process. It’s a slow, meditative craft that pairs perfectly with the pace of homesteading life. Need a moment to unwind after wrangling the goats? Pick up your needles. Want to make something special for a loved one? Knit them a hat.
Knitting also has a way of bringing people together. Host a knitting circle in your cozy kitchen, or teach your kids to make their own winter hats. You’ll be passing on a skill that’s equal parts practical and heartwarming.
More Cozy Homestead Inspiration
If you love the idea of adding some rustic charm to your home, be sure to check out my Homesteading Lifestyle Articles for tips on everything from gardening to DIY home décor. Whether you’re a full-fledged homesteader or just dabbling, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make your home a cozy haven.
Let’s Get Knitting!
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off those needles, grab a skein of yarn, and let’s create something beautiful. Don’t forget to explore my knitting patterns and homesteading articles. I’ve got everything you need to turn your dreams of cozy, handmade living into a reality.
