My First Dishcloth

Say goodbye to disposable sponges and welcome eco-friendly, handmade beauty into your kitchen! The “My First Dishcloth” pattern is designed specifically to help new crocheters build confidence.

It uses a very simple two-row repeat alternating single crochet and double crochet stitches, creating a lovely textured surface that scrubs dishes clean. Because this project is a simple square, you can focus on building neat, straight side edges without worrying about complicated shapes.

Skill Level

Beginner

Finished Size

8 inches wide by 8 inches tall.

Materials

100% cotton worsted weight yarn (Medium weight, Size 4), approximately 50 yards. Size 5.0 mm (US H-8) hook. Tapestry needle. Scissors.

Gauge

13 stitches and 11 rows = 4 inches in the pattern stitch. Do not worry if your square is slightly off; it will still scrub dishes well!

Abbreviations (US terms)

ch = chain, sc = single crochet, dc = double crochet, st(s) = stitch(es).

Pattern Notes

Turning chains do not count as stitches. Always turn your piece at the end of every row. Alternating short single crochet stitches with tall double crochet stitches creates a bumpy texture that makes this dishcloth thick and durable.

Instructions

• Foundation Chain: Chain 27 loosely.
• Row 1: Work 1 single crochet into the 2nd chain from the hook and into every remaining chain across. (26 sc)
• Row 2: Chain 2 (does not count as a stitch) and turn. Work 1 double crochet into the very first stitch and into every stitch across. (26 dc)
• Row 3: Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch) and turn. Work 1 single crochet into the very first stitch and into every stitch across. (26 sc)
• Rows 4-21: Repeat Rows 2 and 3 in order, ending on a Row 3 single crochet row.
• Optional edging: After Row 21, do not turn. Chain 1. Work single crochet evenly down the side edge; at each corner work 3 single crochet into the same stitch. Continue around all four sides and join with a slip stitch to the first border stitch.

Finishing

Fasten off with a 6-inch tail. Weave the tail back and forth through the edge stitches three times. Repeat for the starting tail, then trim.

Beginner Tips

• Count to 26 at the end of every row so your square does not turn into a triangle.
• Keep the foundation chain loose.
• Wash the finished dishcloth in warm water before first use to soften the fibers.