Woven Waves Dishtowel

Woven Waves Dishtowel by NichKnit Designs

What Is Being Made

The Woven Waves Dishtowel is a knitted dishcloth designed by NichKnit Designs. This finished textile measures 13 inches by 17 inches, making it a practical kitchen accessory suitable for drying dishes or general kitchen use. The project combines functional design with decorative stitch work, creating a dishtowel that serves both practical and aesthetic purposes in the kitchen.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as the primary craft. The dishtowel features an i-cord border, which is a decorative edging technique that creates a finished, polished look around the perimeter of the towel. The i-cord border adds structural integrity while enhancing the visual appeal of the finished piece. The pattern uses standard knitting techniques combined with slip stitches to create the distinctive woven appearance that gives the towel its name.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The Woven Waves pattern employs several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Knit stitch (k) - The basic knit stitch forms the foundation of the fabric
• Purl stitch (p) - Used to create texture and variation in the pattern
• Slip stitches (sl) - Stitches are slipped purlwise with the yarn in front (wyf), creating the distinctive woven visual effect
• Cast-on (CO) - The pattern begins with 64 stitches cast on using the crafter's preferred cast-on method
• Bind-off (BO) - Used to secure stitches at the completion of the project
• Place marker (pm) and slip marker (sm) - Markers help track pattern sections and the i-cord border placement

The stitch pattern repeats create the woven texture characteristic of the design. Slip stitches worked with yarn in front are the key technique that produces the visual "waves" effect throughout the towel.

Materials and Yarn

The Woven Waves Dishtowel is worked in worsted weight cotton yarn, specifically KnitPicks Dishie Solids. The pattern requires 200 yards of yarn, totaling 3.7 ounces, which equals approximately 2 balls of the specified yarn. Cotton yarn is an ideal choice for dishcloths because it is absorbent, durable, and easy to care for, making the finished towel both functional and long-lasting.

Needles and Tools

This project is worked on US 7 (4.5 mm) needles. The pattern specifies using either US 7 double-pointed needles or circular needles, giving the knitter flexibility in needle choice based on personal preference. An optional hook may be used for the i-cord border construction. Additionally, a darning needle is included in the notions list for weaving in yarn ends upon completion.

Gauge and Difficulty Level

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 18 stitches per 4 inches (10 centimeters). This is a beginner-level project, making it accessible to knitters who are new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward, rewarding project. The combination of basic stitches and clear instructions makes this an excellent choice for building foundational knitting skills while creating a useful household item.

Pattern Format and Availability

The Woven Waves Dishtowel pattern is available as a free, downloadable PDF from NichKnit Designs. This format allows crafters to access the complete pattern instructions immediately and work at their own pace. The pattern is provided for personal use only and is protected by copyright.