Knitting and Crocheting

I would like to show some different ways of using 100% cotton yarn for making dishcloths and potholders/hotpads. I have used both solid and variegated colors in combination to make dishcloths, as one pattern I use calls for solid on one side and variegated on the other side. When I use that pattern, I also make a matching potholder/hotpad with 4 rows of solid, then 4 rows of variegated, etc. The potholders/hotpads are done in crochet, but the dishcloths are knit. They make great gifts in a pinch or as a gift for a wedding shower.

I have included pictures of the various designs and use of colors. I have shown potholders/hotpads that are crocheted only with variegated yarn and dishcloths that are knit in either solid or variegated.

When you are deciding if you want to knit or crochet your dishcloth, consider the size and weight of the finished product. Older people may have trouble with arthritis and are not able to use a large, heavy dishcloth. The knit dishcloth is lighter in weight and maybe easier to use. Another consideration is how long it takes for the dishcloth to dry out. If you use a pattern that makes a solid (no space between stitches) design with crocheting, it may not dry as quickly as a knit pattern.

There are may dishcloth designs available at your local stores. Most variegated yarn has a matching solid color for contrast. Most variegated yarns with multiple colors will have several solid colors to match.

Check out the pictures!

Swedish Weaving

The pictures I have included are samples of how much or how little weaving you wish to do, based on the pattern you choose. The Heritage Weave took much longer to make than Jewel because the design called for more yarn and more weaving to fill in the design. I will continue to display pictures of different designs to give you an idea of how beautiful the afghans are.

Swedish Weaving

My tip for today will be the best type of needle to use with monk's cloth. When I first started Swedish weaving, I was using a needle typically used for stitching on plastic canvas. Then I found a bodkin needle, which is much better. The needle is wider, flat and the tip is at a slight bend. This needle enables you to pass the yarn under the threads of the cloth. The monk's cloth material consists of loose strands that run over and under to make the weave pattern.

The bodkin needle can be purchased at most craft stores.

Happy stitching!

Swedish Weaving

Welcome to my blog! I have been doing swedish weaving on monk's cloth for 5 years. I learned how to weave and was hooked! I also love to knit and crochet. I am making dishcloths from 100 percent cotton yarn, both in knitting and crocheting. I have received a pattern for a dishcloth that can be used as a cover for a mop, whether you use it for dry or wet. I also use nylon netting with the cotton yarn to make round scrubbies for use in the kitchen. If you have tips to share or questions about this, please let me know!