Beginner Crochet Washcloth Pattern

If you’re looking for a simple and easy beginner crochet project that you can make in no time, then this crochet washcloth pattern is a great start! Not only is this washcloth beginner-friendly, but it’s also a quick project that you can start and finish in one go. And, it’s also practical. You can keep it and use it as a dishcloth or as a washcloth.

Scroll down to see the crochet washcloth pattern that’s perfect for beginners!

New to crochet? Start with this Step-by-Step crochet tutorial with photos and a video demonstration!

Making crochet washcloths is a fun gift idea for any occasion, and it’s a great way to show off your crochet skills. Last year, I made the Single Crochet Dishcloth and it quickly became my favorite. Even though, it’s one of the simplest and easiest designs, it works really well! So if you’re just starting out on your crochet journey, I would recommend beginning with that one.

When you make your own crochet dishcloths / washcloths, you’ll not only end up with a super useful item for your kitchen or bathroom, but you’ll also get to sharpen your skills and learn some new stitches and techniques along the way. The best part? These projects are small enough to finish in just one sitting. It’s both fun and rewarding! 🙂

Washcloth or Dishcloth?

What is the difference between a crochet washcloth and a dishcloth? In my opinion, it’s all about how you use them. Use it for dishes, and it’s a dishcloth. For using it in the shower, it’s a washcloth. Once you decide its purpose, keep it that way. 🙂

Personally, I always pick the softer and prettier ones for my face – the ones with lovely designs, better quality yarn, and beautiful colours, such as the Morning Glow Washcloth. They just feel nicer and add a bit of luxury to your daily routine.

Reasons for making your own washcloth

You can try out new crochet stitches and techniques.
You can whip up a cute and functional washcloth in no time.
It’s reusable; you can throw it in the washing machine, and it’s ready to be used again.
Feeling good knowing you made something useful that you’ll actually use.
Treat yourself to a little self-care with a lovely handmade washcloth.
Make washcloths as gifts! It’s a thoughtful gift that’s both personal and practical.
Let your creativity shine and take your skills to the next level.
And lastly, it’s so relaxing, enjoyable and fun!

How can you customize your own washcloth?

If you’re following a crochet pattern with designated stitches, you can still make your washcloth look unique and different from someone else’s, even if they used the same pattern. What you can change includes the type of yarn and color, the size of the washcloth (smaller or bigger), and whether to add a border or not.

Just by picking a different color, whether it’s a solid shade, variegated yarn, or self-striping yarn, you can make your project stand out. I always go for a color that lifts my spirits and brings me joy, especially since I’ll be using it every day. Your happy color might be completely different from mine, and that’s the beauty of it – we’re all unique! So, what color makes you smile? Choose that one and don’t overthink it. 🙂

Even though it’s just a washcloth, it’s a part of our daily routine. So why not make it something beautiful and uplifting? Personally, I believe that whether you’re using it in the kitchen to wipe down the countertops or wash dishes, these everyday tasks become more enjoyable when you’re using something that brings a smile to your face.

Easy Crochet Washcloth – What Yarn to Use?

Personally, I’m a big fan of using 100% cotton yarn for my washcloths/dishcloths. It’s super absorbent, durable, and can survive a spin in the washing machine.

I once made a washcloth using a blend of acrylic and cotton (60% cotton and 40% acrylic). However, it didn’t absorb water as well as the 100% cotton ones. That’s why I stick to pure cotton yarn for my washcloths.

But of course, it’s my own opinion based on my experience. If you find another type of yarn that works for you, go for it!

Can I use leftover yarn for my crochet washcloth?

Using scrap yarn from previous projects is a great idea! As long as it’s all cotton and you like the colours, you can absolutely use it for your washcloth. You don’t necessarily have to go out and buy the highest quality cotton yarn unless you want to make it super nice as a gift for someone or treat yourself to something extra special. 🙂

Border or No Border?

When it comes to adding a border to your crochet washcloth or dishcloth, the decision is entirely up to you. If the stitch you’ve used for your washcloth results in uneven sides, a border can help tidy that up and give it a more polished look. Plus, if the stitch you’ve chosen creates a stretchy fabric, adding a border can prevent the washcloth from being overstretched and help keep it in shape.

So, in short, a border isn’t necessary. But if you’re feeling adventurous and want to improve your border-making skills, experimenting on a washcloth is a fantastic way to start.

Remember, crocheting borders can be a bit challenging at first, particularly when it comes to evenly distributing stitches along the sides. So, practising on a washcloth is a good idea before you dive into bigger crochet projects.

Beginner Crochet Washcloth Pattern

Pin this crochet washcloth pattern to your Pinterest Crochet Board for later!

Difficulty level

Easy / Beginner

Finished Size

8″ x 8″ (20cm x 20cm)

Gauge

21 stitches x 21rows = 4 inches (10cm)

Materials

Any light worsted weight cotton yarn #3 (DK/8ply) approx. 100yds/90m.

Crochet hook: 4.5mm (7)

Yarn needle, scissors

Abbreviations (US Terms)

Ch = chain

St = stitch

SC = single crochet

Stitch used in this pattern: Moss Stitch. Please use this tutorial if you’re completely new to this stitch or need more pictures for each step! You can also watch a video demonstration of the stitch.

Pattern Notes

This washcloth can be made in any size. Chain any even number of chains to make your dishcloth bigger or smaller, and adjust the number of rows until you have a square.

Washcloth Written Instructions

Ch 40 or any even number for your desired size.

Row 1: Work a SC in the fourth chain from hook. *Ch 1, skip one Ch and work a SC into the next Ch after that, see photos below. Repeat from * across the row. You should be finishing with a SC in the last Ch. By the end of this row, you should have 19 SC stitches plus the turning chain at the beginning of the row.

Row 2 -40 or until you have a square: Ch 2 and turn. Insert your hook into the first gap between the single crochet stitches in the previous row and work a SC. *Ch 1, work a SC in the next gap between the stitches. Repeat from * across the row. The last SC stitch goes between the turning chain and the SC stitch in the previous row.

If you are happy with the way your washcloth looks and don’t want a border, then you can fasten off and weave in all ends.

If you get stuck, visit the Moss Stitch tutorial, where you will find lots of pictures for each step and a video tutorial!

Border (optional)

You can make borders using the same colour yarn or for more contrast and a charming country look, make them in contrasting colours.

If you want to make it in a different colour, join new colour in the middle of very last SC stitch: insert hook in the last stitch, YO, pull through (two loops on hook), now join new colour by pulling it through the two loops and finalising the last SC stitch. See pictures below.

Ch 2, turn. Pull slightly on the yarn tail to secure the yarn switch. See pictures below.

Work one row in the contrasting colour same as before until the end of this row. Chain 2.

Work a SC into the same stitch as you turn the corner to work around the washcloth.

On this side continue with the same pattern, placing one SC stitch in every second stitch.

It can be tricky to work on this side of the project because the stitches are now horizontal and you work into the sides of the first and last stitches in each row.

Continue around the washcloth, placing SC, Ch 2, SC in each of the four corners. At the end, connect the border with a slip stitch. Fasten off and weave in all ends!