Diagonal Basket Weave Washcloth with Picot Edge

Diagonal Basketweave Washcloth with Picot Edge

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from Nourish and Nestle produces two hand-knit washcloths, each measuring 10.5 inches by 10.5 inches when finished. These practical dishcloths are ideal for kitchen use and feature a distinctive diagonal basketweave texture combined with a decorative crochet picot edge finish.

Techniques Used

The pattern employs a combination of knitting and crochet techniques to create visual interest and a refined edge. The main fabric is constructed using a diagonal basketweave stitch worked in knitting, which creates a textured surface with interlocking diagonal lines. This basketweave effect is achieved through a specific sequence of skipped stitches and knit-through-back-loop stitches that are worked in a coordinated pattern across rows. The designer recommends maintaining slightly loose tension while working the basketweave stitch, as the material naturally tightens during construction. Once the knitted body is complete, a crochet picot edge is added using a 3.75mm crochet hook to finish the perimeter with decorative scalloped detailing.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K): The fundamental knit stitch forms the base of the fabric
• Purl (P): Purl stitches are incorporated into the pattern structure
• Knit Through Back Loop (K tbl): This variation is essential to creating the diagonal basketweave effect, as it twists stitches to form the interlocking pattern
• Skip (Sk): Stitches are skipped but left on the needle, then worked in a specific sequence to create the basketweave texture
• Crochet Single Stitch (SC): Used to construct the picot edge finish
• Crochet Chain Stitch (CH): Forms the foundation for the picot edging

Materials

The pattern requires one skein of worsted weight yarn (weight category 4) in 100% cotton fiber. The designer specifies using Lily Sugar'n Cream yarn, with 200 yards of yardage being sufficient to complete both washcloths. Cotton yarn is ideal for dishcloths as it provides durability, absorbency, and easy care. Knitting needles in size 6 US (4mm) are used for the main fabric, adjusted as needed to achieve the specified gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows equaling 4 inches in stocking stitch. A 3.75mm crochet hook is required for working the picot edge finish.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent project for knitters new to textured stitches. While the diagonal basketweave stitch requires attention to the skip-and-knit-through-back-loop sequence, the pattern provides clear stitch abbreviations and straightforward directions. The addition of crochet edging introduces basic crochet skills without overwhelming complexity. The cast-on requires 61 stitches (or any multiple of 2 stitches plus 1), and the pattern structure repeats consistently throughout, allowing crafters to develop rhythm and confidence as they progress.