Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern (Free) — Knit Flat On Two Needles
My knitted circle dishcloth pattern is one of those wonderfully simple makes that looks far more impressive than it is. Worked in garter stitch wedges, each section builds the circular shape, and before you know it you have a textured, sturdy cloth that’s as pretty as it is practical.
The radiating lines created by the short rows, give the dishcloth its signature sunburst look, while the decorative edging makes the whole cloth feel special. If you enjoy stash‑busting projects, this is a perfect candidate because each cloth uses only a small amount of cotton yarn, and mixing colours creates gorgeous effects.
This pattern is one of the designs in my book Twenty to Make: Knitted Dishcloths. I’m delighted to share the pattern as a free extract for you to enjoy, thanks to my publisher Search Press.
Whether you’re making them for yourself, or gifting them in a little bundle, these reusable knitted cloths are a fun, satisfying project you’ll want to make again and again.
🌼 Quick Look: Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern (Free)
- Skill Level: 🌱🌱 Next steps knitting, for a confident beginner.
- Construction: ✂️ Worked in short rows to create a circle that is seamed.
- Techniques Used: 🔄 Garter stitch, yarn over increasing, cast-on, cast-off.
- Time to Make: ⏱️ 45-60 minutes.
- Yarn: 🧶 50g/125m ball of 4-ply (fingering) cotton yarn in chosen colour.
- Extras: ✨ Wool needle.
- Knitting Needles: 📍 Pair of 3mm (UK 11, US 2 or 3) straight needles.
- Finished Sizes: 📏 Size 1: Approximately 14.5cm (5¾in) across. Size 2: Approximately 17cm (6¾in) across
- Pattern Type: 🧵 Flat motif / worked in short rows.
- Perfect For: 💚 Eco‑friendly cleaning, gifting, stash‑busting.
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Why You’ll Love This Free Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern
If you enjoy quick, practical makes that use up leftover cotton yarn, these knitted sunburst circles are wonderfully satisfying to create. Each wedge grows so fast, and before you know it, you have a beautiful, textured cloth that’s as pretty as it is useful. There are so many reasons to love this design:
- Works up quickly — because each wedge is short and rhythmic, giving you that instant‑win feeling.
- Uses small amounts of cotton — ideal for odd balls and colourful leftovers.
- Next‑steps friendly shaping — gentle increases and decreases along the edge help build confidence without being complicated.
- Eco‑friendly and reusable — a lovely alternative to disposable cloths.
- Easy to customise — play with stripes, contrasts, or tonal shades for beautiful effects.
- Pretty and practical — gift‑worthy, especially when bundled with handmade soap or tied in a little set.
They Can Also Be Used As…
Although these sunburst circles make brilliant kitchen dishcloths, they’re just as lovely used around the home in other ways. Their sturdy garter‑stitch texture and pretty radiating shape make them surprisingly versatile:
- Mini table mats — perfect under a teapot, mug, or small vase to add a handmade touch to your table.
- Protective surface pads — use them beneath plant pots or candle jars to prevent scratches.
- Bathroom accessories — ideal as reusable shower cloths or paired with handmade soap.
- Giftable coasters — make a matching set in coordinating colours for a thoughtful handmade present.
Their cheerful sunburst design means they look beautiful wherever you place them — practical, decorative, and endlessly useful.
Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern: Level of Difficulty
This is a confident beginner knitting pattern, because you need experience with yarn over increasing, and simple short rows.
How to Get Your Free Knitting Pattern
Find the full pattern instructions written out below. You don’t need to sign up or log in because it’s free right here on the blog. The pattern is written in English.
Copyright
Please read the copyright terms, which apply globally, before using or downloading your pattern:
The contents of this page, including the pattern instructions and images, are published under copyright to me ©Lynne Rowe 2026 under my brand Knit Crochet Create® and are for your own personal use only.
Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern: What You Need
Here's what you need to crochet your sunburst circle. Dive into your yarn stash for odd balls of cotton yarn, and if you don't have any 4-ply, you can use double knitting (8ply; light worsted weight) instead, with 4mm (US 6) knitting needles. Your sunburst circle will look the same, but will turn out slightly larger.
Materials
- 1 50g (125m/137yd) ball of 4-ply (fingering) cotton yarn in chosen colour.
- I used Scheepjes Catona 50g (100% cotton) in Yellow Gold (208) and Green Yellow (245).
- Pair of 3mm (UK 11, US 2 or 3) straight knitting needles.
- Wool (yarn) needle for weaving in ends.
Tension
- Is not critical for these small circles, because it doesn't matter if they turn out a slightly different size.
Finished Size: Two Sizes (Smaller) (Larger)
- Size 1 (smaller): Approximately 14.5cm (5¾in) across.
- Size 2 (larger): Approximately 17cm (6¾in) across.
Abbreviations For Stitches Used
- K = knit
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
- YO = yarn over
- * = the start/end of a repeat sequence, to be repeated as stated
- [ ] = repeat instructions within brackets as many times as stated
Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern Begins
Using chosen colour, and 3mm (UK 11, US 2 or 3) needles, cast on 15 (18) sts.
TIP: With short rows, when knitting the first stitch after turning, pull the yarn snug (but not too tight) to avoid small holes forming.
- Row 1 (WS): K all sts, turn.
- Row 2 (RS): K3, YO, K to last 3 sts, turn, leaving remaining sts unworked.
- Row 3: K first st pulling yarn tight to avoid a hole, K to end, then turn.
- Row 4: K3, YO, K to last 6 sts, turn, leaving remaining sts unworked.
- Row 5: As Row 3.
- Row 6: K3, YO, K to last 9 sts, turn, leaving remaining sts unworked.
- Row 7: As Row 3.
- Row 8: K3, YO, K to last 12 sts, turn, leaving remaining sts unworked.
- Row 9: As Row 3.
- Row 10: Cast off 4 sts, K to end, turn.
- Row 11: Slip first st, K to end, turn.
Rows 2–11 set the pattern repeat and create one complete wedge section.
- Repeat Rows 2–11 sixteen (eighteen) more times, then repeat Rows 1–9.
- Cast off all sts.
To Finish
Carefully join the cast-off and cast-on edges together on WS, working through the inner loops only of the edge stitches, which helps to hide the joining seam. Weave in ends on WS. Pin flat then steam to flatten the edge stitches.
Mix It Up: Variations & Creative Ideas To Try
- Play with colour blocking — knit each wedge in a different shade for a bold, modern look.
- Try gentle ombré fades — blend tonal colours as you move around the circle for a soft, sun‑washed effect.
- Add stripes — alternate colours every few rows to create radiating rings.
- Use variegated cotton — let the yarn do the work and enjoy unexpected bursts of colour.
- Use them as eco‑friendly additions to handmade gift hampers.
Frequently Asked Questions — Knitted Circle Dishcloth Pattern
Cotton yarn is ideal because it’s durable, absorbent, and washes well. Any 4-ply or double knitting (light worsted weight) cotton works beautifully, especially if you’re using up leftovers from your stash.
Yes — if you can knit, increase, and decrease, you can make these. The wedge construction is rhythmic and easy to follow, making it a great next‑steps project.
Absolutely! They look gorgeous under teapots, mugs, plant pots, or candle jars. The garter stitch texture gives them a sturdy, protective feel.
Pop them in the washing machine at 30°C with your regular laundry. Lay flat to dry to keep their shape. Cotton is very forgiving and holds up well to repeated washing.
Blocking is optional. The circles naturally lie flat thanks to the garter stitch texture, but a quick steam block can help even out stitches if desired.
What to Make Next?
If you enjoyed my knitted circles dishcloth pattern, and are looking for more inspiration, you might also like:
- Garter Stitch Christmas Tree Garland
- Chunky Garter Stitch Cowl
- All My Free Knitting Patterns
- Grab your FREE Knitting Needle Conversion Guide here
Share Your Makes
If you love this pattern, then I’d love to see your finished projects! Tag me on Instagram [@knitcrochetcreate] so I can admire your creations.
About Lynne from Knit Crochet Create
Lynne Rowe is a UK‑based knitting and crochet designer and best‑selling author, recognised for her clear, easy‑to‑follow patterns and her dedication to making knitting and crochet accessible to everyone. She is the founder of Knit Crochet Create, with a strong focus on stash‑busting projects that promote sustainable, mindful making. Lynne’s work encourages the use of your yarn stash — helping you transform small leftovers into joyful creations.
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