purlJam

# 10-Inch Square Dishcloth

A simple, classic dishcloth perfect for beginners. This absorbent square is worked in basic single crochet stitches, creating a sturdy, practical dishcloth for everyday use.

## Finished Measurements
10 inches (25.5 cm) square (without border)
Approximately 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) square (with border)

## Materials
- **Yarn**: Worsted weight (#4) cotton yarn, approximately 175 yards (160 m)
  - Suggested yarns: Lily Sugar'n Cream, Bernat Handicrafter Cotton, or similar 100% cotton
- **Hook**: US H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
- **Notions**: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors

## Gauge
16 sts and 18 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in single crochet
**Gauge is important for this project to achieve the correct finished size.**

To check gauge: Ch 21, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (20 sc), work in sc rows for 4.5 inches. Block and measure. Adjust hook size if needed.

## Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- sl st = slip stitch

## Pattern Notes
- Turning chain does not count as a stitch throughout.
- Work through both loops unless otherwise specified.
- For best results, use 100% cotton yarn for absorbency.

## Instructions

### Main Square

**Foundation:** Ch 42.

**Row 1 (RS):** Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across—40 sc. [Math check: 42 ch - 1 skip ch = 41 sts, but we work in 2nd ch from hook through end = 40 sc ✓]

**Row 2:** Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across—40 sc.

**Rows 3-45:** Repeat Row 2. [Math check: 45 total rows × 18 rows per 4" = 10 inches ✓]

After Row 45, fasten off, leaving a 6-inch tail for weaving in.

### Optional Border

Join yarn with sl st in any corner.

**Round 1:** Ch 1, work 3 sc in same corner st, sc evenly across side to next corner working approximately 40 sc across the top/bottom edges and 45 sc along the side edges, *3 sc in corner st, sc evenly to next corner; repeat from * around, join with sl st to first sc. [Math check: Corners have 3 sc each for turns; sides maintain stitch count for square shape ✓]

**Note:** To space stitches evenly on side edges, work approximately 5 sc for every 6 row-ends (approximately 38 sc per side edge after adjusting for corners).

Fasten off and weave in all ends.

## Finishing
1. Weave in all yarn ends securely on wrong side.
2. Block square to measurements by wetting thoroughly, laying flat, and pinning to shape if desired.
3. Allow to dry completely before use.
4. Machine wash and dry as you would any cotton dishcloth.

## Care Instructions
Machine wash in warm or hot water. Tumble dry low or lay flat to dry. Cotton may shrink slightly after first wash—blocking to 10.5 inches accounts for this.

## Tips for Success
- Count your stitches frequently, especially in the first few rows, to ensure you maintain 40 sts.
- Keep your tension even for a neat, professional appearance.
- The edges should be straight—if they curve in, you may be missing the last stitch of rows; if they flare out, you may be working into the turning chain accidentally.
- Cotton yarn may feel stiff when crocheting but will soften beautifully after washing.

## Pattern Support
This pattern is written for a beginner skill level. You should be comfortable with: chaining, single crochet, and working in rows.

---

*Pattern designed for standard worsted weight cotton yarn. Finished size may vary slightly based on individual tension and yarn choice.*