Free Knit Sand Stitch Dishcloth: Ultra Beginner Friendly Pattern

Free Knit Sand Stitch Dishcloth by Janice Jones, Certified Knitting Instructor from Craft Yarn Council   |Published 1-2023, Updated 10-2025

The knit sand stitch is a favorite among beginner knitters because it is created with just purl and knit stitches.  It is also beginner-friendly because it follows a two-row repeat and a stitch pattern of two stitches plus one.  

It also results in a lovely textured fabric.  Think of small grains of sand catching the light.  On the right side of the fabric, the specks of sand are visible, but on the wrong side, or the non-public side, it looks like ribbing.  Since the right and wrong sides are not the same, we call that a non-reversible fabric.

The knit sand stitch, right side knitted in a green, 100% cottonKnit Sand Stitch showing the right side.

Skills You Will Need to Make the Knit Sand Stitch Dishcloth

How Do You Make the Knit Sand Stitch

The sand stitch is easy to make and memorize.  It is a two-row repeat, meaning that there are only two rows of instructions that are repeated for as long as you want your fabric to be.

Worked on Multiples of 2 + 1, meaning that you would multiply the number of stitches by 2 and then add one more ( 23, 25, 27), odd numbers.

Row 1:  P across.

Row 2:  K1, *P1, K1,* to end of row.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for the pattern.

Working the Sand Stitch Flat in Chart Form

If you prefer to work from a chart, here is one for you to follow.

The knit sand stitch instructions in chart form

Abbreviations

k = knit

P = purl

st = stitch(es)

CO = cast on

Notes

  • Worked on a stitch multiple of 2 plus 1
  • Requires a two-row repeat
  • It is not reversible
  • It is made entirely of knit and purl stitches without any other techniques.

Supplies

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Skill Level

From the Craft Yarn Council, the symbol used to determine the skill level required to finish the project.

Measurements

One free knit sand stitch dishcloth measures 8" by 8" square. (about 20.3 cm by 20.cm)

Directions for the Free knit Sand Stitch Dishcloth

CO 41 sts

Row 1: (RS): P across row

Row 2: (WS): K1, *P1, K1,* repeat from * to end of row.

Repeat these two rows until the cloth measures 8 inches (20.3 cm) long.  Bind off in pattern.  Weave in ends.

Working the Sand Stitch In the Round on Circular Needles

The knit sand stitch can easily be converted into working in the round with circular needles.  This is helpful if you prefer to turn your dishcloth into a hot pad, trivet, oven mitt, or potholder.  There are two ways to do this:

  1. You can turn your sand stitch dishcloth into a pot holder by working it twice using straight needles and then sewing both pieces together.
  2. You can work it in the round using circular needles.  

If you do want to work the sand stitch in the round, you would:

Cast On: Multiples of 2

Row 1 (RS): Purl around
Row 2: * P1, K1 *

If you do want to make a hot pad, Cast on 40 stitches, join in the round, and place a stitch marker at the beginning of the round.  Work in the round until you reach your desired length.  Bind off in pattern.  Sew up the top and bottom to close the tube.  Tack the center to keep it flat.

The Knit Sand Stitch is Not Reversible

The knit sand stitch, right side knitted in a green, 100% cottonKnit Sand Stitch Right Side
The knit sand stitch in 100% green cotton showing the wrong sideKnit Sand Stitch Wrong Side

Frequently Asked Questions About the Sand Stitch

What is the sand stitch in knitting?

The sand stitch is a simple two-row knit and purl pattern that creates a subtle, nubby texture. It’s not reversible, but both sides look attractive, making it perfect for dishcloths, scarves, and baby blankets. It is easy, even for absolute beginners, and may make the best first project for those wanting to learn to knit.

Is the sand stitch good for beginners?

Yes. The sand stitch uses only knit and purl stitches, making it one of the easiest textured patterns to learn. If you can knit and purl, you can master the sand stitch quickly.  Since it is created by working a two-row repeat, it is easy to memorize and perfect for working while watching television.

What is the best yarn for knit dishcloths?

100% cotton yarn is the best choice for dishcloths because it’s absorbent, durable, and easy to wash. Brands like Lily Sugar’n Cream, Lion Brand 24/7 100% Cotton,  or Peaches & Crème work perfectly for this project.

Free Knit Sand Stitch Dishcloth:  Pin For Future Reference

The knit sand stitch swatch and chart on a pin imageKnit Sand Stitch Pattern

Conclusion

The sand stitch dishcloth is a simple, satisfying project that’s perfect for beginners. Give it a try, and you’ll have a beautiful, practical piece for your kitchen in no time!

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