Gentle Ridges - Free Crochet Dishcloth Pattern

I'm no fancy designer and like to crochet simple things, so I played around with a favorite crochet stitch and threw this little number together pretty quickly.  I think it's the first crochet pattern I wrote down, and that was years ago! Everyone I've shared the pattern with has proclaimed it to be a hit because of its simplicity and functionality, while still being an attractive piece.

I prefer a crochet dishcloth that has a little bit of a raised stitch and even keep a few set aside that I use strictly as washcloths - they're perfect in the bath for gentle exfoliating without being too rough on the skin.  I think this pattern works well in the bath or shower as well as the kitchen.

Gentle Ridges Crochet Dishcloth Pattern

Finished size is approximately 8" x 8"

Materials needed

Size H crochet hook
Any kitchen cotton yarn

Abbreviations

DC = double crochet
SC = single crochet
SK = skip
Ch = chain
St = stitch
Sl St = slip stitch

With size H crochet hook and any kitchen cotton yarn, ch 31

Row 1:  DC in 3rd ch from hook, sk 1, * SC and DC in next ch, sk 1.  Repeat from * to end of row, ending with SC in last stitch.  Ch 2, turn.

(Rows 2-20 are worked in back loop only, except for the first and last stitch)

Row 2-20:  DC in 1st st, sk 1, * working in back loop only, SC and DC in next space, sk 1.  Repeat from * to end of row, ending with SC in last st.  Ch 2, turn.

Finishing:  After completing last st in row 20, SC/ch 1/SC in that corner space, continue to SC around all sides of piece, with SC/ch 1/SC in corners.  Join with sl st to first SC in first corner worked.  Bind off and work in ends.

This pattern can also be adapted to make hot pads/trivets.  Simply make two dishcloths the same size and place one on top of the other and stitch together around outer edges.  You can easily vary the size of the hot pad by increasing the starting chain and/or number of rows.  I also like to make them long and wide enough to fit beneath an oblong or rectangular casserole dish.

For gift-giving, fold, or roll a couple of coordinating dishcloths, tie with raffia, and tuck into a small basket with a bottle of eco-friendly dish soap.  Nestle a pair of washcloths alongside a bar of homemade soap or moisturizing shower gel, then add a scented candle or diffusers and oil for the gift of a truly luxurious bathing experience.  They would be a great gift for a teacher, housewarming, etc.

Enjoy!

 ~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Make sure to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns.