When I first discovered that people actually crocheted and knitted dishcloths and washcloths I was astounded.  Wouldn’t the traditional square of terry towelling do?  And why crochet or knit hot pads and potholders?  Why spend that time on making such utilitarian items?  Now I know why!

It’s so much fun! What a great way to use small amounts of yarn left over from other projects (these are all crocheted in worsted weight cotton: Lily Sugar’n’Cream, purchased from American Yarns Online).  What a great way to play with colour!  What a great way to learn new techniques and experiement with shape and form!  All incredibly satisfying.  Mine will probably end up on a wall as decoration rather than what they were designed for, but you never know.

The Chrysanthemum Dishcloth (a free pattern but you need to register).

The Ripple Potholder (but mine is only one layer so it’s a dishcloth)

The Scalloped Potholder (I did make this double-sided, brown on one, yellow on the other)

A Stir Me Up potholder (free Ravelry download) – this one is slightly different on each side as well

Another Flower Hot Pad

And a Starburst hotpad

And that’s it! I’m all out of the yarn – about a metre left of each. I worked all of these with a 4.5mm hook. Lots and lots of fun – why not give one (or two) a try?