Linen stitch is a quick and simple stitch that doesn’t curl like stockinette stitch. It produces a relatively thin but durable fabric that has a woven appearance that looks good on both sides. Today, I would like to share a simple washcloth pattern with you. The pattern is easy enough for the beginning knitter who is ready to try something besides garter stitch and a relaxing knit for more experienced knitters. It is fun to work in two colors.
Linen Stitch Washcloth
Materials
- Yarn
- ~100 yd/ 91 m worsted weight cotton or cotton blend yarn. Sample in Peaches & Creme (100% cotton, 120 yd/109 m per 2.5 oz/70.9 g) 1 skein in Hot Orange.
- Needles
- US size 8/5.0 mm (or size needed to obtain gauge)
- Additional materials needed
- Tapestry needle
Gauge
- 23 stitches and 34 rows per 4 inch/10cm in linen stitch pattern
- Gauge is flexible. The listed gauge seems odd but linen stitch draws in the fabric both widthwise and lengthwise.
Size
- One size
Finished Dimensions
- 7 x 7 in/ 18 x 18 cm
Pattern Notes
Linen stitch is fun and easy to do, so don’t let all the abbreviations and yarn positions intimidate you. To help you out, here are a few hints.
- All stitches are slipped purlwise (as if to purl).
- When you are slipping stitches, the yarn will be held in front on the Right Side and in back on the Wrong Side.
- The yarn will move back and forth, weaving its way between the stitches.
- Try to keep an even tension between slipped stiches and regular stitches so your fabric doesn’t pucker.
Abbreviations | |||
CO | Cast on | St/sts | Stitch(es) |
RS | Right side | WS | Wrong side |
sl | Slip 1 stitch | pw | Purlwise |
k | Knit | p | Purl |
wyib | With yarn in back | wyif | With yarn in front |
Instructions
CO 40 sts using your favorite stable cast on (Long tail, knitted, cable, etc).
Row 1 (RS): [k1, sl1 pw wyif], repeat [ ] to end of row.
Row 2 (WS): [P1, sl1 1 pw wyib], repeat [ ] to end of row.
Repeat Rows 1 – 2 until cloth measures 7 in/18 cm from cast on edge (or desired length)
Bind off
Weave in ends, steam block if desired, and enjoy.