A New Washcloth Pattern

I have a new favourite wash cloth pattern to make - AND it's crochet - which I find easier than knitting. I know... I know... it's very exciting. You can find the pattern for free at the Lion Brand website. I found that I needed to increase my crochet hook to achieve the proper tension - I used a 5.5 mm vs. the recommended 5.0 - but in trying the 5.0 as suggested, I did note that it would work up ideally for a bath mat - having a little more stiffness.

This simple stitch works up to a very thick wash cloth, and although they are idea for dishes OR your body - I would personally use this as a wash cloth for your face. It's so thick and luxurious. In fact, it's really making me want to make tons of them and interesting soaps to match. I don't currently make soap - but you crafters know how this trend can go.

Keeping me slightly in check is one my new organizational tools. The "bag of things to sew ends in". While I can't fit an afghan or the likes in here, it does provide a little boundary for the number of small items that accumulate that "just need the ends sewing in". At the very least, these projects may end up all hanging out together. It is kind of amazing how they can accumulate. Sigh. Okay, where's the needle? ... here I go.

I'm sure this stitch must have a name, but I don't know it. The basic stitch pattern for the washcloth is this:

With 5.5 mm hook (or 5.0 depending on your tension) - chain 35.

Row 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next ch, *sl st in next ch, hdc in next ch; rep from * across – 34 sts at end of this row.
Rows 2-38 (or 40 depending on cotton): Ch 1, turn, sl st in first hdc, hdc in next sl st, *sl st in next hdc, hdc in next sl st; rep from * across.

Alternate the colour pattern however you like - and enjoy.

Crocheted Carpet

Here's a surprise - I've finished something that I didn't even tell you I'd started. Another little experiment - crocheting a carpet. This one is for my office.

Experimental Beaded Coaster

A little experimenting today... A while back, I picked up some precut plastic canvas squares that I thought would be great for making coasters. I made a few with cotton - they were ok - but for some time I've fancied trying some with beads.

So it was like fate stepped in today when on a trip to the dollar store I found these boxes of beads that were the perfect size. My first thought had been to alternate stitches and beads but I found it wasn't substantial enough. What works best in my opionion? Solid beads.


With each 'stitch' you kind of have to manipulate the bead into place, but when it is fully stitched and edged with floss, I think they'll hold in place quite well.

As I'm experimenting, I've used my least favourite colour assortment, and I definitely feel that the colour changes are far too subtle, but it's an idea that has merit. At least enough for a trip back to the dollar store tomorrow. You've got the pick things up when you see them there - I know the drill.

The verdict on the beaded coasters ... maybe.

UPDATE: The Evolution of the Beaded Coaster