Grit Stitch Crochet Tutorial

Today, we are exploring the beauty and simplicity of the grit stitch. If you’re on the lookout for an easy and rewarding crochet project, you’re in for a treat!

In this blog post, we’ll discover the beauty of the grit stitch and its unique texture that adds a touch of rustic charm to your creations. Our focus will be on one of my favourite crochet patterns – the Farmhouse Washcloth. This easy crochet washcloth pattern not only introduces you to the grit stitch but also offers a practical and stylish addition to your kitchen or bathroom.

Suitable for beginners with knowledge of the basic stitches, this pattern is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for crocheters of all skill levels.

Get ready to add a touch of farmhouse elegance into your crochet repertoire. Let’s dive into the soothing rhythm of the grit stitch and create a Farmhouse Washcloth that combines simplicity, functionality, and a dash of handmade warmth.

Crochet washcloths also make for great quick gift ideas. Made with cotton yarn they are great for anyone of any age – a perfect baby shower gift idea, or team it with some favourite lotions and potions for a fabulous gift set for him or her.

My family all love their gifted washcloths. In fact, I often get asked to make more by them each year either for themselves or so that they can gift them to someone special.

Your journey into the world of easy crochet washcloth patterns begins here!

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links – should you purchase anything using my affiliate link I may get a small commission at no extra cost to yourself!

Inspiration behind the design

The Farmhouse Washcloth design was inspired by a desire to make something simple, elegant, and suitable for everyone. Imagine a practical and unisex gift that fits seamlessly into any bathroom or kitchen – that’s what I aimed for with this crochet pattern. The idea was to create a timeless piece that not only does its job but also adds a special touch to everyday spaces.

I kept things simple by using the charming grit stitch, which gives the washcloth a cozy feel with textured squares. It’s a classic look that stays appealing over time. My goal was to make a versatile item, a practical and unisex gift that works in any setting. Whether it’s hanging in a modern bathroom or placed in a farmhouse-style kitchen, it effortlessly blends in.

I also wanted the Farmhouse Washcloth to be a lasting addition to your daily routine. The stitches and design were chosen to ensure that it remains visually pleasing for years to come.

In essence, this crochet pattern celebrates simplicity, timelessness, and the joy of crafting something beautiful by hand.

Construction of the design

The Farmhouse Washcloth is made in rows, keeping things simple and perfect for crocheters of all skill levels. The majority of the washcloth is crocheted using the lovely grit stitch, which gives it a textured and cozy feel.

To add a bit of flair and break up the texture, I’ve included sections with easy half-double crochet (hdc) stitches. These hdc parts act like little accents that can look fantastic in a different color, giving your washcloth a playful touch. They also give you a great opportunity to play with colours here.

But, if you prefer a more consistent look, you can skip these hdc sections and stick to the soothing grit stitch for the entire washcloth.

The beauty of this design is that it’s flexible – you can get creative with colors, experiment with patterns, and make it uniquely yours. Whether you choose to include the hdc accents or keep it all about the grit stitch, the Farmhouse Washcloth is a perfect free crochet washcloth pattern for anyone to enjoy.

The Yarn

Choosing the right yarn ensures your Farmhouse Washcloth not only looks great but also stands the test of time.

For this free crochet washcloth pattern, I highly recommend using cotton yarn. Cotton is a hypoallergenic fiber, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin. Crafted to be gentle, it provides a soft and comfortable feel, ensuring a delightful experience for every user.

The practicality of cotton extends to its washing and drying properties. Cotton can withstand higher temperatures during washing, which is ideal for maintaining hygiene in frequently used items like washcloths. Furthermore, cotton dries quickly, ensuring your Farmhouse Washcloth is ready for reuse in no time.

Two brands that I personally recommend for this project are Paintbox Simply Aran and Hobby Lobby’s I Love This Cotton. These brands offer quality cotton yarns that not only feel luxurious but also come in an array of colors, allowing you to personalize your washcloth to match your style or the recipient’s preferences. If you’re creating a washcloth for someone with sensitive skin, these brands are especially fitting.

However, for those seeking a denser washcloth with a bit more exfoliation, you may want to explore stiffer cottons like Lilly Sugar ‘n Cream.

Alternatively, you can experiment with a cotton-acrylic mix, maintaining a higher percentage of cotton (e.g., 60% cotton, 40% acrylic) for a bit more drape in your finished Farmhouse Washcloth. The yarn you choose adds a layer of customization to your project, ensuring a washcloth that not only looks fantastic but also feels wonderful against the skin.

Get the PDF pattern!

You can find the ad-free PDF Pattern for this one in all of my shops:

Tester Appreciation:

I just love what my testers did with their versions of this pattern. They all used different colours and there was even a speckled yarn used! They are all bright washcloths and make me smile!

The pattern specifics:

Materials:

Any 4 weight cotton yarn of your choosing – I used approximately 60 yards. 5mm hook Scissors Tapestry Needle Stitch Markers optional to mark first or last stitch of the row.

Gauge:

Not important for this project – a relaxed tension will work out just fine!

Sizing:

approximately 8” by 9.5” unblocked.

Abbreviations used:

Ch(s)–chain(s) St(s)–stitch(es) rep–repeat dc–double crochet sc–single crochet ss–slip stitch sk—skip hdc – half double crochet *to* – repeat between the * and * FO—fasten off YO—yarn over

Other notes:

Written in US terms. Ch1 and Ch2 start does count as a st unless stated otherwise.

Special Stitches:

There are no special stitches in this pattern. However, the specific sc and hdc combination are known as the grit stitch.

The grit stitch is worked over two stitches. It consists of   *(sc, dc) in the first st, sk the next st* repeat.

This results in a beautiful texture that could work well in variety of projects!

You can find my tutorial for the grit stitch in both right and left handed versions:

Right handed – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDc0AftsrBQ

Left handed – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87MV04KLWmA

The Free Farmhouse Washcloth Crochet Pattern:

** This is a free pattern on the SunflowerCottageCrochet.com blog. If you are reading this anywhere else it is stolen content. Please do not copy and paste any part of it or print this pattern out. Please bookmark this page and use the website to work up your pattern. This helps my small business greatly as it provides a little bit of ad revenue which will in turn will allow me to continue to create free content for you!**

Row 1: In colour A: Ch 35 (or a multiple of 2 plus 3). Dc in the third ch from hook  (Note: the ch2 counts as a sc here) *sk the next ch, (sc, dc) in the next ch* Rep from * to * until 2 chains remain. SC in the last ch. (33 sts)

Row 2: Note: From here you will be working only into the sc from the previous row Ch1 (counts as a sc), turn, dc in the first st *sk the next st, (sc, dc) into the next st* Rep from * to * until you have two stitches left, sc in the last st.

Row 3-4: Repeat row 2

Row 5-6: In Colour B: Ch1, hdc in the first st, hdc in each st across ensuring that for the last st you hdc into the turning ch1 from the previous row. (33 sts)          

Row 7: In Colour A: Ch1 (counts as a sc), turn, dc in the first st *sk the next st, (sc, dc) into the next st* Rep from * to * until you have two stitches remaining, sc in the last st.

Row 8-24: Repeat row 2

Row 25-26:  In Colour B: Ch1, hdc in the first st, hdc across to the end ensuring that you hdc into the turning ch1 from the previous row. (33 sts)   

Row 27: In Colour A: Ch1 (counts as a sc), turn, dc in the first st *sk the next st, (sc, dc) into the next st* Rep from * to * across until you have two stitches left, sc in the last st.

Row 28-31:  Repeat row 2

Row 32: SS across the top if desired

FO and weave in ends

The Winter Washcloth Series Event:

On January 31st 2024 this pattern featured in the Winter Washcloth Series Event hosted by Michelle at Two Brothers Blankets.The bundle of all 31 patterns is still available. Click the button below to check it out!