Materials & tools you'll need

Ruler or measuring tape · 5mm crochet hook (or a size of your choice, adjusting stitches accordingly) · Yarn needle · Cotton yarn — Bernat Handicrafter cotton is ideal for dishcloths, but any yarn you like will work · An additional yarn of your choice for larger projects

Step 1 — Start the foundation chain and first row

Make a slip knot, then chain 26 (27 for larger projects). Double crochet into the third chain from the hook and continue across the row. Turn at the end of the row to begin the next one. This foundation row sets the width for the whole washcloth.

Step 2 — Work the waffle stitch pattern (rows 1 & 2)

Row 1: work a front post double crochet (fpdc) in the first stitch, double crochet in the next 2 stitches, fpdc in the next stitch, double crochet in the next 2 stitches, and repeat this sequence across the row. Row 2: double crochet, then fpdc in the same stitch as the previous row's fpdc — this is the vertical bar — double crochet in the next 2 stitches, fpdc in the next vertical bar, double crochet in the next 2 stitches, repeating across the row.

Step 3 — Repeat the pattern rows to complete the washcloth

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for a total of 16 rows to complete the main body of the washcloth. Keeping the fpdc placements lined up over the vertical bars from the row below is what builds the raised, waffle-like texture, so take your time locating each post as you go.

Step 4 — Weave in the ends

Once you've finished all 16 rows, weave in any loose ends using your yarn needle for a clean, tidy finish on both sides of the washcloth.

Step 5 — Add a hanging tag

To add a hanging tag, chain 15, then insert the hook back into the last stitch of the row and pull a slip stitch through everything. Tie it down tight, cut the yarn, loop the loose end through, and pull it nice and snug to secure the tag. Your finished waffle stitch washcloth is ready to use as a scrubby dish or body cloth, or to gift.

Frequently asked questions

What materials are needed to make a waffle stitch washcloth?
You'll need a ruler or measuring tape, a 5mm crochet hook (or a size of your choice, adjusting stitches accordingly), a yarn needle, and cotton yarn — Bernat Handicrafter cotton is ideal for dishcloths, though any yarn you like will work.

What skill level is required to crochet a waffle stitch washcloth?
This pattern is designed for beginner crocheters comfortable with basic stitches such as slip stitch, chain stitch, and double crochet. It also introduces front post double crochet (fpdc), a slightly more advanced stitch used to create the waffle texture.

How can I make a larger waffle stitch washcloth or blanket?
To size up the project, chain in multiples of six instead of the standard 26 (or 27) foundation chain. This lets you scale the same waffle stitch pattern up for larger projects like blankets or sweaters.

How do I add a hanging tag to a crochet washcloth?
Chain 15, then insert the hook back into the last stitch of the row and pull a slip stitch through everything. Tie it down tight, cut the yarn, loop the loose end through, and pull it snug to secure the hanging tag.

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