There’s just something so satisfying about making your own dishcloths, isn’t there? They’re quick, practical, and a perfect way to play with new stitches. Today I’m sharing one of my favorites—a soft cotton crochet dishcloth using the simple and beautiful bar stitch.
If you’re looking for an easy project with a little texture and visual interest, this one is such a good choice. The bar stitch creates these lovely raised lines that really stand out, especially when you switch colors. I love how it looks in stripes, but it’s just as pretty in solids or variegated yarn too.
I put together a quick video tutorial to walk you through it step-by-step if you prefer to learn visually:
The bar stitch makes a raised line design design. It looks good in multicolored yarn, stripes, and solids.
Why You’ll Love This Dishcloth
This pattern is beginner-friendly and has a relaxing rhythm once you get going. It’s just a simple 2-row repeat, using single crochet and front post double crochet to create that textured “bar” effect. Easy, but not boring—my favorite kind of stitch!
For yarn, I used Lily Sugar ’n Cream cotton because it’s sturdy, affordable, and easy to find. It also holds up really well for everyday use in the kitchen.
I choose Lily Sugar N Cream Cotton Yarn for this easy dishcloth. The yarn is easy to work with and buy. You can find it at your local store easily or online.
More Easy Dishcloth Patterns
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A Few Helpful Tips for the Bar Stitch
Before you dive in, here are a few things that will make the pattern easier:
- Your starting chain should be a multiple of 3
- You’ll be working into the front loop for part of the pattern
- The texture comes from alternating rows:
- One row of single crochet
- One row of single crochet + front post double crochet
- I like switching colors every 2 rows for a striped look
- The turning chain does not count as your first stitch
- My pattern changes every 6 rows.
How to Make a Free Bar Stitch Cotton Crochet Dishcloth Pattern
Supplies
- scissors
- tapestry needle
- H, 5 mm crochet hook
- 2 – 3 oz Lily Sugar n Cream in yellow and hot orange or any other worsted weight 100% cotton yarn approx 2 oz of each color.
Abbreviations – US Terms
- ch–chain stitch
- fpdc – front post double crochet
- st/sts - stitch/stitches
- yo- yarn over
Finished Size
Approximately 8.5 inches (22 cm)
Pattern
Ch 30
Row 1: With Hot Orange, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc across. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc in first 2 sts, fpdc around st two rows below,
sc in next 2 sts, fpdc around next st two rows below repeat across until 2 sts remain, sc in last 2 sts. Change to Yellow on last yarn over. Turn.
Row 4: Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.
Row 5: Ch 1, sc in first 2 sts, fpdc around fpdc from two rows below,
sc in next 2 sts, fpdc around fpdc from two rows below repeat across until 2 sts remain, sc in last 2 sts. Change to Hot Orange. Turn.
Row 6: Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.
Row 7: Ch 1, sc in first 2 sts, fpdc around fpdc from two rows below,
sc in next 2 sts, fpdc around fpdc from two rows below repeat across until 2 sts remain, sc in last 2 sts. Change to Yellow. Turn.
Repeat Rows 4–7 until you reach about 32 rows or your desired length. Finish with a row of single crochet without changing color.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
A Little Variation
If you prefer a solid look, you can absolutely make this in one color. I tried an all-orange version by chaining 33 and working 36 rows—it turned out just as pretty with more subtle texture.
Download Now: Free PDF Bar Stitch Dishcloth Crochet Pattern
Want More Easy Dishcloth Patterns?
If you enjoyed this one, you might also love:
- Crunch Stitch Washcloth
- Half Double Herringbone Dishcloth
- Almond Stitch Washcloth
This is such a relaxing project to keep in your crochet rotation, especially when you want something quick and useful. Let me know if you try it—I always love seeing your creations
Pin for Later
Looking for more crochet stitches to try? Try these: 20 Popular Crochet Stitch Patterns or Top 10 Best Crochet Stitches for Blankets
I have been crocheting since I was 8 years old. I have 40 plus years of experience. My blogging journey started in 2013 and I have been writing about crafts and crocheting since then. I started blogging full time in 2019.