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!