How to Knit a Dishcloth: Easy Pattern for Absolute Beginners

Knit a Dishcloth

If you’re just starting your knitting journey, dishcloths are your new best friend! They’re small, practical, and quick—perfect for building your skills without overwhelm. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of finishing your very first project, and Knit a dishcloth.

In this guide, I’ll share a beginner-friendly dishcloth knitting pattern, my favorite yarns to use, and plenty of tips to help you knit confidently from the start.

Let’s cast on!


Why Dishcloths Are Perfect for Beginner Knitters

Knit a Dishcloth

Dishcloths are a fantastic starting point because they’re:

  • Quick to finish: Instant gratification helps build confidence.
  • Functional: Use them immediately in your home or give them as thoughtful handmade gifts.
  • Low-stress: Mistakes? No problem—it’s all practice!
  • Affordable: Cotton yarn is budget-friendly and durable.

What You’ll Need for Knitting Dishcloths

Before you dive in, here’s a quick list of everything you’ll need (I’ve included my favorite yarns for beginners):

Dishie Yarn by Knit Picks
  • Lily Sugar’n Cream Cotton Yarn on Amazon
Great for Dishcloths
Lily Sugar n' Cream Solid Variety Assortment 6 Pack
$18.95
  • Price is for 6 assorted skeins of Lily Sugar'n Cream as shown. Popular for making durable dishcloths. This mix includes Hot Pink, Hot Purple, Hot Green, Sunshine, Hot Orange and Hot Blue.
  • Solids are 2.5 ounce and 120 yards long skein.100% Cotton. Made in Canada with cotton grown in the USA
  • Medium Weight #4; also referred to as Aran, Worsted or Afghan weight knitting yarn Gauge is 4"=20 stitches on size 7 needles; suggested crochet hook: H8


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04/02/2025 03:29 pm GMT

  • Straight knitting needles: US size 7 or 8 (4.5–5 mm)
  • Tapestry needle: for weaving in loose ends
  • Scissors
  • Optional stitch markers: helpful but not required for this project

Free Beginner-Friendly Dishcloth Pattern

🌿 Easy Garter Stitch Dishcloth

This simple garter stitch pattern is your first step into knitting. Garter stitch means you knit every stitch in every row—easy and relaxing!

Finished size: Approx. 7” x 7” square

Step-by-step Instructions:

  1. Cast On:
    Cast on 30 stitches using your favorite beginner-friendly method.
    (Need help? Here’s how to cast on.)
  2. Knit Every Row:
    Knit all stitches on each row until your dishcloth measures about 7” tall.
    (This is typically about 36-40 rows.)
  3. Bind Off:
    Once your dishcloth reaches 7” x 7”, bind off all stitches loosely.
    (New to binding off? Here’s how to bind off easily.)
  4. Weave In Ends:
    Cut your yarn and weave in loose ends using your tapestry needle.

✨ Pro tip: Keep your knitting tension relaxed. A soft dishcloth is both easier to knit and nicer to use!


More Easy Dishcloth Patterns to Explore

Knit a Dishcloth

Once you’ve mastered the basic garter stitch dishcloth, you might love trying these beginner-friendly patterns from Ravelry:


đź’ˇ Pro Tips for Perfect Dishcloths

  • Always use 100% cotton yarn—it’s super absorbent, machine washable, and durable.
  • Dishcloths make excellent gifts. Knit a few in coordinating colors, bundle them with a ribbon, and you have a thoughtful handmade gift ready to go!
  • Relax your tension and don’t knit too tightly. Dishcloths should feel soft and flexible.

More Training

Knitting for Beginners: Learn the Basics Step by Step


đź’¬ Over to You!

I’d love to see what colors you choose for your dishcloths! Share your creations with me or ask questions on Instagram 👉 @jennyknitsdaily.
Let’s celebrate your knitting journey together!

Happy knitting! đź’•

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