Chevron Stripes Dishcloth

Chevron Stripes Dishcloth by Joan Laws

What is Being Made

The Chevron Stripes Dishcloth is a practical kitchen textile designed by Joan Laws. This finished dishcloth measures 8½" x 8½", making it an appropriately sized cloth for everyday kitchen use. The project creates a decorative yet functional dishcloth featuring a striking chevron stripe pattern that adds visual interest to a utilitarian item.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as the primary craft method. The design is suitable for beginnerlevel knitters, making it an excellent introductory project for those learning fundamental knitting skills while still producing a finished item with visual appeal and practical application.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Chevron Stripes Dishcloth employs a combination of essential knitting stitches to achieve its distinctive pattern:

• Knit stitch (K) – creates smooth, raised columns of fabric
• Purl stitch (P) – produces the reverse texture, creating visual contrast

The pattern operates on a multiple of 18 stitches, with 36 stitches cast on to accommodate two full pattern repeats across the width. The chevron effect is created through strategic alternation of knit and purl stitches across 16 rows, which are then repeated to build the full 8½" x 8½" square. The pattern requires working Chart rows 1–30 once, followed by rows 1–21 repeated once more, creating the layered chevron striping effect.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Chevron Stripes Dishcloth is designed to be worked in worsted weight yarn. The recommended yarn is Lily/Sugar'n Cream, a 100% cotton yarn available in the color #01699/Tangerine. This yarn provides 120 yards per 70.9 grams, offering excellent value and durability for a dishcloth project. Cotton yarn is ideal for dishcloths as it is absorbent, machine-washable, and becomes softer with use.

Needles and Gauge

This project requires Size 6 (4.0mm) knitting needles, or whatever needle size is necessary to achieve the specified gauge. The pattern calls for a gauge of 17 stitches over 4 inches, which is important to verify before beginning to ensure the finished dishcloth reaches the intended 8½" x 8½" dimensions.