Old World Garter Square Dishcloth Pattern

Garter Square Dishcloth Pattern   by Janice Jones

Need a super easy, super fast project for a last-minute gift idea?

This is an old pattern that has more uses than just dishcloths. I have yet to locate its original designer, so this is my rendition of the dishcloth.

It is a mitered square that is worked by casting on enough stitches for two sides of the project.  Decreases are made every other row until just two stitches remain. 

This pattern works great with one solid color for the absolute beginner, or challenge yourself with a striped version.

The instructions are written for an 8-inch dishcloth, but if you prefer, you can make it larger or smaller.  The directions for changing the size will be provided below.

Garter Square Dishcloth Pattern

Abbreviations

K = knit

k2tog = knit two together

SSK = slip, slip, knit

CO = Cast on

BO = Bind off

RS = Right Side

WS = Wrong Side

Notes

  • This pattern uses U.S. Terms.
  • It is worked with knit stitches combined with k2tog, and ssk.
  • It is reversible.
  • It is very stretchy, so if you prefer a slightly sturdier cloth, switch to size 7 (4.5 mm) needles.

Supplies

  • 100% Cotton about 1/2 skein (for this project, I used Yarnspirations Caron All Day Cotton in color Eyes Blue
  • Number 8 (5.0mm) knitting needles
  • Yarn needle
  • Scissors
  • One Stitch Marker

Finished Size

8 x 8 inches (20 cm by 20 cm)

Directions

For an 8-inch square, Cast on 66 stitches.  If you prefer a 9-inch square, cast on 74 stitches; for a 10-inch square, cast on 82 stitches. 

Place a stitch marker at the middle point of your cast-on stitches.  

Row 1:  (RS) Knit across until there are two stitches before the mid-point (stitch marker).  SSK, slip the marker onto the right needle, K2tog, then knit to the end of the row.

Row 2:  (WS) Knit across.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 until only two stitches are remaining.  Bind off the last two stitches.  Weave in ends.

Optional:  Create a loop handle:  Leave the last two stitches on the needles and knit across until the loop is about 2 inches long.  Bind off and sew the end to the dishcloth.  Then weave in ends.

How Does This Piece Ever Turn into a Square?

I understand what you are asking, as I asked the same question. But after two or three rows, you will begin to see that the two center decrease stitches create the corner.

Mystery solved. It still looks like this washcloth could use a little blocking after finishing.

Garter Square Dishcloth Pattern: 
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Mitered square dishcloth worked in blue cotton yarn on a pin imagePin for Future Reference

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