Knitting may seem intimidating at first. (I should know – I’m intimidated by it myself!) But there are simple ways to learn how to knit that won’t freak you out.
When you begin learning a new crafting technique, you want to start small. So what’s the easiest project for the inexperienced knitter?
I give you: the dishcloth.
Now, a dishcloth isn’t just something you use to wipe your kitchen counters. Knitted dishcloths are usually a little thicker than store-bought cloths, so they are typically more durable. You can use knitted dishcloth patterns as hot pads to put under your steaming dishes or as wipes to cleanse the makeup from your face. You can hang them in your kitchen as cute decorations, too.
They also make great learning tools. You can practice a bunch of easy knitting techniques just by making a few dishcloths. The best part is that they’re small, so you don’t have to worry about taking on a huge project when you first begin knitting.
Below you’ll find a variety of stitching patterns to get you started. Now for the tough part: deciding which technique I’m going to try this weekend. Hmm….
These dishcloth patterns are so simple that you’ll want to make more than one!
Beginner Knitting Techniques
The Garter Stitch – This simple design is perfect for beginners, or just for keeping your hands busy while you’re watching TV or listening to an audiobook. It will help new knitters get comfortable with the knit stitch before moving on to other stitches that are a bit more complicated.
The Slip Stitch – This super simple stitch is one of the first stitches to learn when you take up knitting. It makes a great dishcloth, as one side of the pattern is smooth while the other is bumpy.
The Stockinette Stitch – Learn the fundamental skill of the stockinette stitch with this easy pattern. You only need to know how to knit and how to purl to get the hang of it.
Once you get the hang of these easy stitches, you can start making unique shapes!
The Seed Stitch – This easy knitting pattern is quite textured, which makes it a great addition to your kitchen cleaning arsenal. These dishcloths make great gifts – for your friends or for yourself!
Intermediate Techniques
The Waffle Stitch – This waffle-like stitch pattern is classic and chic. It is thick enough to cut through the grime on dirty dishes and sticky fingers. Your grandmother probably has more than one of these in her kitchen!
The Basketweave Stitch – This simple design is both decorative and practical. This dishcloth would look great hanging up in your kitchen, but it’s also great for cleaning up messes.
The Lace Stitch – After you’ve done the basic stitches, it’s time to learn about lace knitting. The end result is so pretty that you’ll probably want to hang it up as decoration rather than use it to wipe away dirt.
Once you’ve mastered these simple knitting techniques, you’ll be ready to learn more advanced skills!
Which of these knitting techniques do you plan to try?
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I especially like the stockinette stitch cos it’s not only easy, but pretty as well. Also, the basketweave stitch cos it’s sooo pretty! 🙂
I use several of these in my knitting class I teach. Once knit and purl is mastered, on to cute animal washcloth. Great gifts.