Crocheting is expressing your creative vision with yarn and an indispensable tool, the crochet hook, isn't it? It's truly mesmerizing how a simple ball of string transfers into something beautiful and functional, and the waffle stitch is one of those techniques that adds a whole new dimension to your creations.
What exactly is the Waffle Stitch?
Well, it's a brilliant combination of double crochets and post stitches that create a pattern resembling the delightful grids of a waffle. Hence the name! And trust us, once you see it come together, you'll understand why it's such a favorite type among crocheters.
Excited? Great! Here's a detailed guide to creating your very own waffle stitch masterpiece: Dishcloth
Begin by chaining 35 stitches on your chosen best crochet hook. This will serve as the foundation for your dishcloth.
Row 1: Work a double crochet into the 3rd chain from the hook and across each chain. By the end of this row, you should have 33 double crochets neatly aligned.
Row 2: Chain 3 (this acts as your first double crochet), then begin the waffle stitch pattern by alternating between front post double crochets and back post double crochets. This creates the signature texture of the waffle stitch. Finish the row with a double crochet at the turning chain's top. Your row should showcase 2 double crochets, 11 front post double crochets, and 20 back post double crochets.
Row 3: Chain 3, turn your work, and continue with the alternating pattern of double crochets and front post double crochets. Finish the row with double crochets in the last 2 stitches. This row should feature 20 front post double crochets and 13 double crochets.
Row 4: Chain 3, turn your work, and repeat the alternating pattern of front post double crochets and double crochets. End the row with a front post double crochet and a double crochet. You should now have 22 double crochets and 11 front-post double crochets.
Rows 5-20: Repeat rows 3 and 4 to continue building the waffle stitch pattern. This will give your dishcloth its distinctive texture and thickness.
Row 21: Repeat row 3 to maintain the continuity of the pattern.
Row 22: Chain 1 and turn your work.
- Single crochet across the row, then work 3 single crochets in the last stitch to create a smooth edge.
- Continue by single crocheting evenly down the side edge, working 3 single crochets in the first stitch of the bottom row, single crocheting across to the last stitch, working 3 single crochets in the last stitch of the bottom row, single crocheting evenly up the side edge, and working 2 single crochets in the same stitch as the beginning stitch of row 21.
- Finally, join with a slip stitch to complete the round. You should have a total of 138 single crochets.
Row 23: Chain 1 and turn your work.
- Single crochet in the first stitch, work 3 single crochets in the next stitch to increase slightly, then single crochet in the next 34 stitches.
- Continue this pattern of increasing and single crocheting across the row until you reach the end, where you'll join with a slip stitch to the beginning single crochet. You should now have 146 single crochets, giving your dishcloth a neatly finished edge.
And just like that, you've crafted your very own waffle stitch textured dishcloth! Do you want to take the opportunity to explore further? Feel free to experiment with colors, sizes, and different types, such as aluminum, steel, or wooden crochet hooks, to feel the difference and to tailor your dishcloth exactly to your liking. After all, crocheting is as much about self-expression as it is about crafting something useful.