Powder Squarere

Powder Square Spa Series Dishcloth by Petra Christel Breakstone

What is Being Made

The Powder Square is a versatile knitted square from the Spa Series collection by designer Petra Christel Breakstone. Each square measures 8.5" x 8" when blocked and can be used in multiple ways: as a spa or washcloth for skincare, as a kitchen dishcloth for cleaning dishes, or collected together to create a larger blanket for home use. The project uses approximately 62 yards of yarn per square, allowing crafters to make two squares from a single 125-yard skein.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting project features varying stitch patterns that create visual interest throughout the design. The pattern incorporates flag motifs and diagonal lines that are surrounded by garter stitch sections, combining textured and smooth areas for a truly engaging knitting experience. The pattern is provided in both written instructions and charted format, making it accessible to different learning styles.

Construction begins with casting on 51 stitches and knitting 12 rows to establish the foundation. The design uses stockinette stitch as a base gauge element, with the varying stitch patterns layered throughout to create the decorative effects. The project concludes with a bind-off to finish the edges.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch - forms the border and surrounding areas
• Stockinette stitch - used as the base gauge measurement
• Flag stitch patterns - creates decorative motifs
• Diagonal line stitches - adds directional visual elements

Materials and Tools Required

The Powder Square calls for DK weight cotton yarn, specifically "Organic cotton" by Yarnz2go. Each skein contains 125 yards and weighs 50 grams, providing enough yardage to create two complete squares per skein. Cotton yarn is ideal for dishcloths and spa cloths as it absorbs moisture well and becomes softer with washing.

Knitting needles required include US size 1 (2.25 mm) circular knitting needles, which are appropriate for the DK weight yarn and help maintain consistent gauge throughout the project. Additional notions include 4 stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and construction sections.

Gauge and Difficulty Level

The pattern is designed for Advanced Beginner level knitters. The gauge is 11 stitches and 18 rows over 2 inches in stockinette stitch, which should be checked before beginning to ensure the finished square reaches the intended 8.5" x 8" blocked size. While the pattern incorporates multiple stitch types, the combination of clear written and charted instructions makes it manageable for knitters with some experience who are ready to expand their stitch repertoire.

The Powder Square Spa Series pattern is available for personal use and was created in 2019 by Petra Breakstone. This square design is part of a larger collection, allowing crafters to explore additional patterns within the series and create coordinated projects.