The Double-Dipped Diagonal: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Thick, Two-Tone Potholder
Introducing the Double-Dipped Diagonal Potholder
This isn't your grandma's potholder. The Double-Dipped Diagonal uses a clever two-layer construction and a striking diagonal stripe to create a heat-resistant, modern kitchen essential that's as beautiful as it is functional. Designed for beginners and experienced crocheters alike, this pattern yields a thick, plush, and durable potholder that will protect your hands while adding a pop of color to your kitchen. The bold diagonal stripe, created by alternating two contrasting colors every two rows, gives this piece a contemporary, graphic look that stands out from traditional potholders. Made with 100% cotton yarn, it's heat-resistant, washable, and built to last. Let's get started!
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Lily Sugar 'n Cream (or any 100% cotton worsted weight yarn) in two contrasting colors: Color A (e.g., 'Teal') and Color B (e.g., 'Ecru'). Approximately 100 yards of each color.
- Hook: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
- Other: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors
- Gauge: 14 sc x 16 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in single crochet. Gauge is important for achieving the correct size and thickness. Make a gauge swatch before starting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Notes Before You Begin
- This potholder is worked in two identical layers that are joined together with a decorative border.
- The diagonal stripe is created by changing colors every two rows.
- The final piece is approximately 8 inches square.
- All stitches are worked in single crochet (sc) unless otherwise noted.
- Chain 1 at the beginning of each row does NOT count as a stitch.
Layer 1 (Make 2)
Row 1 (Color A): With Color A, chain 26. Single crochet in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. (25 sc) Turn your work.
Row 2 (Color A): Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Turn. (25 sc)
Row 3 (Color Change to Color B): Join Color B by pulling a loop through the last stitch of Row 2. Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Turn. (25 sc) Tip: Carry the unused color loosely along the side of your work to avoid cutting yarn after every two rows.
Row 4 (Color B): Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Turn. (25 sc)
Row 5 (Color Change to Color A): Join Color A by pulling a loop through the last stitch of Row 4. Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Turn. (25 sc)
Row 6 (Color A): Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Turn. (25 sc)
Rows 7-30: Repeat Rows 3-6, alternating colors every two rows, until you have a total of 30 rows. You will end with Color A. Fasten off and weave in all ends securely. Repeat this entire process to make a second identical layer.
Joining the Layers
Place the two layers together with wrong sides facing each other. Ensure the diagonal stripes align perfectly. Using Color A, join yarn with a slip stitch in any corner, working through both layers.
Round 1 (Joining Round): Chain 1, single crochet evenly around all four sides, working through both layers. In each corner, work (single crochet, chain 1, single crochet). Join with a slip stitch to the first single crochet. (Approximately 25 single crochets per side, plus corner stitches)
Round 2 (Border Round): Chain 1, single crochet in each single crochet around, working (single crochet, chain 1, single crochet) in each corner chain-1 space. Join with a slip stitch to the first single crochet.
Hanging Loop: Chain 12, slip stitch to the same stitch to form a loop. Fasten off and weave in all ends securely. Your Double-Dipped Diagonal Potholder is complete!