This seed stitch washcloth is designed as a practical, beginner-friendly project that teaches texture without complicated steps. Knit flat using simple repeats, it lets you focus on learning the seed stitch rhythm and maintaining even tension.
This article explains how to knit a seed stitch washcloth with clear, step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. This free seed stitch washcloth knitting pattern uses worsted weight cotton yarn and alternating knit and purl stitches to create a soft, nubby fabric for dishes, face washing, or everyday cleanup.
On this page: About · Materials · Gauge · Abbreviations · Skills Used · Printable PDF · Instructions · Care · Sharing
About This Seed Stitch Washcloth
Knit with 100% cotton yarn, these reusable washcloths are eco-friendly, long-lasting, and way better than anything store-bought. Stack a few in cheerful colors, tie them with twine, and you’ve got a thoughtful handmade gift for baby showers, housewarmings, or just because.
Materials
Yarn
One 95-yard (2-ounce) skein of worsted weight cotton yarn. One washcloth uses about 71.25 yards (1.5 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
Darning needle (for weaving in loose ends)
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
Skills Used
This seed stitch washcloth is a beginner-friendly project that introduces texture through simple, repeating stitches. To make the seed stitch washcloth, you’ll only need to know how to:
- cast on,
- turn your work,
- make a knit stitch,
- make a purl stitch,
- bind off in pattern, and
- weave in the loose ends.
Seed stitch is made by alternating knit and purl stitches, then switching the order on the next row. The result is a bumpy, textured fabric that looks more complicated than it is. Once you get the rhythm, it becomes a calm, repeating pattern.
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.
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
- Two extra sizes (scrubby and hand towel)
- Easy to print or use on your tablet
- Supports my small business 💖
Instructions: Seed Stitch Washcloth
(8 inches x 8 inches after washing in cold water; 8.5 inches x 9.25 inches before washing)
Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit flat, turning after each row.
Row 1: Cast on 40 stitches. Turn.
Row 2: **k, p** x 20. (40 stitches) Turn.
Row 3: **p, k** x 20. (40 stitches) Turn.
Rows 4–73: Repeat Rows 2 and 3.
Row 74: Bind off loosely in the pattern of Row 2. 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 cloths are roughly 8 inches square, then allow to air dry.
Save or print this pattern
Get the PDF version of this Seed Stitch Washcloth knitting pattern.
Care
If you use cotton yarn, your finished washcloth will be machine washable. To keep your seed stitch washcloth looking its best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate in cold water. You may tumble dry on low heat.
🛁 Read more Knitwear Care Tips
Copyright, Sharing, and Selling Finished Items
©2016, Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels. Revised 2021, 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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great info!