Get more details about this project
What you need
Cotton yarn, worsted weight or DK cotton
Crochet hook to suit your yarn
Yarn needle
Scissors
Suggested hook sizes:
4.5 mm or 5 mm hook for worsted weight cotton
4 mm hook for DK cotton
Finished Size
Approx. 8 inches x 8 inches
Finished size may vary depending on your yarn, hook size, and crochet tension.
Skill Level
Beginner
Abbreviations
ch = chain
sc = single crochet
st = stitch
sts = stitches
sp = space
sl st = slip stitch
fo = fasten off
Instructions
This easy crochet washcloth is made using the moss stitch, a simple crochet stitch that creates a lovely woven texture using basic stitches. It is a great beginner crochet project and a practical way to use up cotton yarn from your stash.
The finished washcloth can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, added to handmade spa gift baskets, or made in sets for quick gifts. Moss stitch is also known as linen stitch or granite stitch, and once you get into the rhythm, it is a wonderfully relaxing stitch to work.
Instructions
Ch 31.
Row 1: Sc in the 4th ch from hook, *ch 1, skip next ch, sc in next ch; repeat from * across. Ch 2, turn.
Row 2: Sc in the first ch-1 sp, *ch 1, sc in the next ch-1 sp; repeat from * across, working the final sc into the turning ch space at the end of the row. Ch 2, turn.
Repeat Row 2 until the washcloth is square or measures approx. 8 inches long.
Do not fasten off if you are adding the border.
Border
Round 1: Ch 1. Work sc evenly around all four sides of the washcloth, placing 3 sc in each corner. Join with a sl st to the first sc.
Round 2: Ch 1. Sc in each st around, placing 3 sc in each corner. Join with a sl st to the first sc.
Fo and weave in all ends.
Optional Hanging Loop
At the end of the border, before fastening off, ch 10.
Sl st back into the same corner st to form a loop.
Fasten off and weave in the ends securely.
Making A Different Size
To make the washcloth smaller or larger, start with an odd-numbered chain.
Try:
Ch 25 for a smaller face cloth
Ch 31 for an approx. 8 inch washcloth
Ch 41 for a larger dishcloth
Ch 51 or more for a small hand towel
Continue repeating Row 2 until the project is the size you want.
Tips
Use 100% cotton yarn for the best result, especially if the washcloth will be used in the kitchen or bathroom.
If your washcloth feels too stiff, try going up half a hook size.
If your edges look uneven, place a stitch marker in the turning chain space so you know where to work the final stitch of each row.
For a striped version, change colours every two rows.
Lightly block the finished washcloth by dampening it, shaping it into a square, and letting it dry flat.
Gift Idea
Make a set of three moss stitch washcloths in matching or coordinating colours and tie them together with ribbon or twine. Add a bar of handmade soap, bath salts, or a small candle for an easy handmade spa gift.
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