Nr. 83 Shower girl 65 stitches

Nr. 83 Shower girl 65 Stitches Dishcloth by Lotte Vilstrup Nielsen

What is Being Made

Nr. 83 Shower girl is a knitted dishcloth designed by Lotte Vilstrup Nielsen. This finished textile measures 25 x 23 cm (approximately 10 x 9 inches) and is ideal for kitchen or bathroom use. The design features a decorative pattern element created through strategic placement of knit and purl stitches across the fabric surface.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using the knitting craft. The pattern is classified as beginner level, making it suitable for those new to knitting or looking to practice fundamental techniques. The design was test knitted by Søs Hammershøy Sørensen to ensure accuracy and accessibility for knitters of varying experience.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Nr. 83 Shower girl pattern employs essential knitting techniques that build foundational skills:

• Cast on – The pattern begins with casting on 65 stitches, establishing the foundation row for the entire project
• Knit stitch – Abbreviated as k, this is the primary stitch used throughout the pattern
• Purl stitch – Abbreviated as p, this stitch is combined with knit stitches to create texture and the decorative pattern
• Slip stitch – The first stitch of every row is slipped purl wise with yarn at back of work, a technique that creates neat, finished edges

The pattern alternates between rows of ribbed knit-purl combinations and rows featuring strategic placement of knit and purl stitches to form a decorative motif. The initial rows establish a ribbed border using a repeating (k1, p1) pattern, while subsequent rows introduce the design element through varied stitch placement.

Materials

Yarn: The project requires 100% cotton yarn in a 4-ply weight. A total of 186 yards (170 meters) is needed, which equals 1 ball of 50 grams. Cotton yarn is ideal for dishcloths as it is absorbent, durable, and easy to care for. The pattern accommodates any color, allowing for personalization and creative choice.

Needles: The pattern calls for 30 cm (30-inch) knitting needles in size 3.25 mm (U.S. size 3). These straight needles are an appropriate length for a flat, rectangular dishcloth project and the needle gauge works well with 4-ply cotton yarn to create a fabric with good structure and drape.

Pattern Structure

The pattern uses clear abbreviations: k for knit and p for purl. Instructions specify that all rows begin and end with a knit-purl combination (k1, p1, k1, p1), creating a finished border. From row 5 onward, the written pattern focuses on the central design area, with the border stitches understood to frame each row. This structured approach makes the pattern easy to follow for beginners while creating a visually interesting finished textile.