The Driftwood Dune Washcloth: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Corner-to-Corner Cloth
Introducing the Driftwood Dune Washcloth
Elevate your kitchen or bath with this modern, asymmetrical washcloth, knit using a unique corner-to-corner technique that creates a stunning, sculptural texture. The gentle gradient of earthy tones mimics the shifting sands of a coastal dune, making it a beautiful and functional piece of handmade art. This pattern is perfect for adventurous beginners or intermediate knitters looking to try a new construction method. The finished cloth is not only practical but also a lovely decorative accent for your home.
Materials Needed
To create your own Driftwood Dune Washcloth, gather the following supplies:
- Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (e.g., Lily Sugar 'n Cream or Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton) in three colors:
- Color A (Sand): Approximately 50g
- Color B (Driftwood): Approximately 50g
- Color C (Sea Glass): Approximately 50g
- Needles: US Size 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles (or size needed to obtain gauge)
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. Gauge is not critical for this project, but consistency is important for even texture.
- Other: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and blocking pins (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Abbreviations
- k = knit
- p = purl
- kfb = knit front and back (increase)
- k2tog = knit two together (decrease)
- yo = yarn over
- sl1 = slip one stitch purlwise with yarn in back
- st(s) = stitch(es)
Pattern Notes
- The washcloth is worked diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner, then back to the starting corner.
- The color changes create a gradient effect. Change colors as follows: Work 10 rows in Color A, then 10 rows in Color B, then 10 rows in Color C, then 10 rows in Color B, then 10 rows in Color A.
- The edge stitch is slipped purlwise on every row to create a neat, braided edge.
Section 1: Increase (Corner to Center)
With Color A, cast on 3 stitches.
Row 1 (RS): Sl1, kfb, k1. (4 sts)
Row 2 (WS): Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 3: Sl1, kfb, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (5 sts)
Row 4: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 5: Sl1, kfb, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (6 sts)
Row 6: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Repeat Rows 5 and 6, increasing by 1 stitch every RS row, until you have worked 10 rows in Color A. You will have 10 stitches on the needle at the end of the last WS row.
Change to Color B. Continue repeating Rows 5 and 6 until you have worked 10 rows in Color B. You will have 20 stitches on the needle.
Change to Color C. Continue repeating Rows 5 and 6 until you have worked 10 rows in Color C. You will have 30 stitches on the needle.
Section 2: Decrease (Center to Opposite Corner)
Change to Color B. Now you will begin decreasing on the RS rows.
Row 1 (RS): Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (29 sts)
Row 2 (WS): Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Repeat Rows 1 and 2, decreasing by 1 stitch every RS row, until you have worked 10 rows in Color B. You will have 20 stitches on the needle at the end of the last WS row.
Change to Color A. Continue repeating Rows 1 and 2 until you have worked 10 rows in Color A. You will have 10 stitches on the needle.
Section 3: Final Decrease (Return to Corner)
Continue with Color A.
Row 1 (RS): Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (9 sts)
Row 2 (WS): Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 3: Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (8 sts)
Row 4: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 5: Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (7 sts)
Row 6: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 7: Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (6 sts)
Row 8: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 9: Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (5 sts)
Row 10: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 11: Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (4 sts)
Row 12: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 13: Sl1, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, yo, k2tog. (3 sts)
Row 14: Sl1, p to last st, k1.
Row 15: Sl1, k2tog, k1. (2 sts)
Row 16: Sl1, p1.
Row 17: k2tog. (1 st)
Cut yarn, pull through last stitch, and weave in ends.
Finishing
Weave in all ends. Block the washcloth gently to open up the lace-like holes and even out the texture. Lay flat to dry.
