Master the Pebble Stitch with my Free Skipping Stones Washcloth Pattern!
Today, I’m thrilled to share with you an exciting new project that has been designed to elevate your skills while providing practicality and charm to your home – the Skipping Stones Washcloth. This free washcloth pattern not only serves as a delightful addition to your collection but also offers a fantastic opportunity to master the intricate-looking yet rewarding pebble stitch.
Are you searching for a quick project to utilize those leftover skeins of cotton yarn? Look no further! This washcloth is the perfect solution, allowing you to transform remnants into something both useful and beautiful. Plus, with its simple yet captivating design, it’s an ideal candidate for your donation box, offering comfort and style to those in need.
The inspiration for the Skipping Stones Washcloth stemmed from my recent popular Skipping Stones Sweater pattern. Sharing the same stitches, this washcloth pattern offers a gateway for those hesitant about diving into more complex projects. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how approachable and enjoyable these stitches truly are!
This free washcloth pattern isn’t just about crafting; it’s about community. As part of the “From Us to You Donation Challenge” event, it embodies the spirit of giving and sharing – something which the crafting community is so well known for.
So, grab your hooks, gather your yarn, and let’s embark on this creative journey together. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a curious beginner, there’s something special awaiting you with the Skipping Stones Washcloth pattern.
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 Skipping Stones Washcloth pattern holds a special place in my heart as it was originally conceived for the ‘From Us to You Donation Challenge’ Event in 2023. This event aimed to foster a sense of community among crocheters while giving back to those in need. And as a bonus one of the great things about this event is that it has to be a free crochet washcloth pattern forever on the blog! So you will always be able to find it here.
Inspired by the spirit of generosity and creativity, I designed this pattern with a dual purpose in mind.
First and foremost, I wanted to create a pattern that would be accessible to crocheters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your crochet journey, the Skipping Stones Washcloth offers an opportunity to either practice your skills or learn something new. Enter the Pebble Stitch – a delightful texture that adds depth and character to the washcloth while being simple enough for beginners to grasp.
Furthermore, I wanted to address the common dilemma of leftover yarn skeins languishing in our stash. By designing a project that could be easily adapted to accommodate odd and part-used skeins, the washcloth became not only a practical item but also a sustainable solution to yarn wastage.
Crochet washcloths, with their versatility and practicality, are a great donation item. They are quick to make, gender-neutral, and universally useful, making them ideal for gifting to those who may be challenging to shop for.
With the Skipping Stones Washcloth pattern, I invite you to not only explore the beauty of the Pebble Stitch but also to join me in spreading joy and warmth through the simple act of crochet. Together, let’s make a difference, one stitch at a time.
Construction of the design
The construction of the Skipping Stones Washcloth design is both simple and engaging, offering crocheters a delightful journey through various stitches and techniques. This washcloth is crafted in rows, allowing for ease of creation and customization to suit individual preferences.
The focal point of the design is the pebble stitch section, where the intricate texture of the stitch comes to life. Worked on the wrong side of the fabric, each pebble stitch is nestled between single crochet stitches, creating a harmonious blend of texture and simplicity. With two rows dedicated to the pebble stitch, crocheters have ample opportunity to master this captivating stitch pattern. For those seeking guidance, both left and right-handed video tutorials are available to ensure clarity and ease of learning.
A single row of the camel stitch, also known as the half-double crochet third loop, serves as a transitional element, separating the pebble stitch section from the remainder of the washcloth. This stitch adds a subtle touch of sophistication while maintaining the overall simplicity of the design.
Moving on to the top portion of the washcloth, crocheters will find themselves working with two fundamental stitches: the single crochet and the double crochet (US Terms). These basic stitches create a sturdy and functional fabric, perfect for the practicality of a washcloth. Combined with the textured pebble stitch and the understated elegance of the camel stitch, the Skipping Stones Washcloth embodies both versatility and charm, making it a joy to create and a pleasure to use.
The Yarn
When it comes to selecting the perfect yarn for the Skipping Stones Washcloth, I highly recommend opting for a 4 weight (aran) cotton yarn or a yarn with a high cotton blend. For my washcloths I used Hobby Lobby’s ‘I Love this Cotton’. Cotton offers a plethora of benefits that make it an ideal choice for this particular project.
First and foremost, cotton is renowned for its hypoallergenic properties, making it gentle and safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Given that washcloths come into close contact with the skin, using a hypoallergenic yarn ensures maximum comfort and minimal risk of irritation.
Moreover, cotton is suitable for individuals of all ages, from delicate newborns to the elderly. Its soft and breathable nature provides a soothing touch, making it perfect for even the most delicate skin.
In addition to its comfort factor, cotton yarn is incredibly easy to care for, making it a practical choice for everyday use. Washcloths made from cotton yarn can be laundered on higher temperatures, ensuring optimal hygiene and cleanliness.
In summary, the choice of cotton yarn for the Skipping Stones Washcloth not only enhances its functionality but also prioritizes comfort, versatility, and ease of care.
Alternative yarns I would recommend for this crochet washcloth project are:
- Dishie Yarn from WeCrochet / KnitPicks
- Paintbox Cotton Aran from Lovecrafts
- Momento Prima Cotton from WeCrochet / KnitPicks
- From Us to You Donation Challenge:
Get the PDF pattern!
You can find the ad-free PDF Pattern for this one in all of my shops:
Tester Appreciation:
I had some fabulous testers for this particular washcloth pattern for me – and they worked this washcloth crochet pattern up so quickly! They seem to have had fun making this one up for me.
Check out their versions …
The Skipping Stones washcloth 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 8.5” by 8.5” unblocked. My testers Skipping Stones crochet washcloths came out between 8-9″ square.
Abbreviations used:
| Ch(s)–chain(s) St(s)–stitch(es) rep–repeat dc–double crochet sc–single crochet ss–slip stitch hdc – half double crochet PS – Pebble Stitch Fhdc – Foundation half double crochet *to* – repeat between the * and * FO—fasten off YO—yarn over |
Other notes:
| Written in US terms. Ch1 start does not count as a st unless stated otherwise. I changed colours as my video tutorial for the pebble stitch on rows 2 and 4. I also changed colour for the remainder of my washcloth from row 6 onwards. |
Special Stitches used in this free washcloth pattern:
There are a couple of special stitches used in this one (but nothing too challenging!)
The Pebble Stitch – YO, insert hook into next st, YO and pull through to the height of a dc, *YO and insert hook into same st, YO and pull through to the height of a dc. Rep from * once more. YO and pull through all 7 loops on the hook.
You can find my tutorial for the pebble stitch in both right and left handed versions:
Hdc in the third loop (also known as the Camel Stitch):
This is worked in the third loop of the HDC stitch (which will be on the front as we are working in rows). This pushes the top two “V” stitch loops to the side, creating a “knitted” look. YO and insert hook into 3rd loop of indicated hdc, YO and pull up a loop, YO and pull through all 3 loops on the hook.
You can find my video at
The Pattern:
** This is a free crochet washcloth 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: FHDC 31 or
Ch 32 (or a multiple of 2). Hdc in the second ch from hook (Note: the ch2 counts as hdc here) . Hdc in next ch and each ch across. (31 Hdc)
Row 2: Ch1, turn, sc in first st, *PS in next st, sc in next st.* Rep from * to * across. (16 sc, 15 PS)
Row 3: Ch1, turn, sc in first st and each st across (31 sc)
Row 4: Rep row 2
Row 5: Ch1, turn, hdc in first st and each st across (31 hdc)
Row 6: Ch1, turn, hdc third loop only in first st and each st across.
Row 7: Ch1, turn, sc in first st, *dc in next st, sc in next st*. Rep from * to * across. (16 sc, 15 dc)
Row 8: Ch1, turn, dc in first st, *sc in next st, dc in next st*. Rep from * to * across. (16 dc, 15 sc)
Rows 9-28: Rep rows 7-8 until washcloth measure 8.5” tall or as tall as desired.
FO and weave in ends
Easy optional border for any crochet washcloth pattern:
You can add a sc border around your washcloth if you would like to making sure to work sc, ch1, sc into each corner st.
Here’s how to work a simple single crochet border.:
Turn, ch1, SC in first st and each st across until you reach the final st, [SC, CH1, SC] in corner st,
Turn your washcloth so that you are working along the side, sc 31 sts evenly down the side. [SC, CH1, SC] in corner st,
Turn your washcloth so that you are working along the bottom, sc in next st and each st across until you reach the final st, [SC, CH1, SC] in corner st,
Turn your washcloth so that you are working along the side, sc 31 sts evenly down the side. [SC, CH1] in corner st and ss to first sc to join.
FO and weave in ends.
I hope you have enjoyed this free crochet washcloth pattern! Please do share them on social media and remember to tag me so that I can see them!!!
