The Casita crochet kitchen towel pattern uses basic stitches and creative techniques to create a classic farmhouse look without extra ends to weave in. With a quaint yet contemporary feel, this crochet hand towel will add an enduring handmade touch to your bathroom or kitchen.
Get the free pattern below, or purchase the ad-free, printable PDF here.
This crochet kitchen towel pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarns. This post contains affiliate links.
Classic Free Crochet Towel Pattern
Dish towels may not initially seem like the most exciting crochet project, but I'm here to change your mind.
The Casita towel combines traditional stripes with modern block stitches to make a useful and stylish accessory. While these are thoughtful gifts to have on hand, I bet you'll want to keep a few for yourself too!
Pro Tip: Combine a Casita Hand Towel with the Casita Crochet Potholder for a great gift set!
Jump to:
- Classic Free Crochet Towel Pattern
- How to Crochet Kitchen Towels
- Stitches for a Hand Towel
- Crochet Kitchen Towel Pattern Variations
- Best Yarn for a Crochet Washcloth or Towel
- Choosing a Crochet Hook Size
- Pattern Notes and Tips
- Print This Pattern
- Free Pattern - Casita Tea Towel
- FAQs About Handmade Towels
- Invitation to our Facebook group
- How to Crochet a Kitchen Towel - A Summary
Why you’ll love this crochet pattern!
How to Crochet Kitchen Towels
We use a special technique in this pattern to avoid cutting the yarn between each striped row. Instead, we keep both colors attached during the striped sections and work two consecutive rows in the same direction. (This differs from typical crochet patterns that turn at the end of each row.)
When the main hand towel is complete, we add a simple crochet border around the edge to hide the yarn carries.
Don't worry if this sounds a bit confusing. You'll find a complete photo tutorial in the free towel pattern below.
Pattern Overview Video
Prefer to watch and listen instead of read? In the video below, I explain what you need to know before crocheting your own hand towel. Check it out to get the inside scoop on the pattern instructions.
(If you have an ad-blocker running, you'll need to disable it to view the video.)
Stitches for a Hand Towel
The Casita kitchen towel uses the boxed block stitch to create a flexible, yet solid fabric. This is the same stitch we used in the Prism Baby Blanket, although in that pattern, it's worked in the round.
This unique crochet stitch alternates rows of double crochet with rows of single crochet and chain stitches.
We easily create stripes by using an accent color for every other row. Of course, if you're a beginner crocheter, you can eliminate the stripes for an even simpler beginner towel pattern.
Crochet Kitchen Towel Pattern Variations
There are many simple ways to customize your towel. Here are a few ideas:
Best Yarn for a Crochet Washcloth or Towel
When knitting or crocheting dishcloths, the best yarns are absorbent, durable, and easy to wash. Here are some types of yarn that are commonly used:
| Fiber Type | Benefits | Yarn Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
100% cotton yarn | This is the most popular fiber choice for kitchen towels and washcloths. Cotton is absorbent, machine washable, and easy to find in most craft stores. | 24/7 Cotton 24/7 Cotton DK Pima Cotton Mac-Re-Me |
Hemp yarn | Hemp is a natural fiber known for its strength and durability. It's also naturally antibacterial, which makes it an excellent choice for dishcloths. | Just Hemp Yarn |
Linen yarn | Linen is another natural fiber that is durable and absorbent. Like hemp, linen can prevent bacterial growth. | Touch of Linen |
Bamboo yarn | Bamboo is a soft, silky fiber that can be biodegradable. Choose bamboo yarn to add a luxe touch to your hand towels. | Coboo Truboo |
Pro Tip: Don't use yarn with acrylic or other synthetic fibers because they don't absorb liquids well.
Consider Yarn Weight
In this dish towel pattern, we're using Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton. I like this yarn's saturated colors, tight weave, and sophisticated-yet-durable look. 24/7 Cotton is my go-to for crochet shoes, bucket hats, and baskets.
Any worsted-weight cotton yarn can be substituted in this easy towel pattern. A slightly thicker worsted-weight yarn like Lily Sugar and Cream will create a larger towel. Try a lighter-weight yarn like Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK for a smaller hand towel.
Substitutions
If Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is unavailable near you, check YarnSub.com for similar suggestions.
Related: How to Shop Your Stash: The Best Patterns for Using the Yarn You Have
All-in-One Crochet Kit
If you don't live near amazing yarn stores or if you like to get fun deliveries, the all-in-one kit is a perfect way to make your Casita Tea Towel.
This bundle from Lion Brand includes all the 24/7 Cotton you'll need to make both this towel pattern as well as the Casita Potholder, plus bonus printable PDFs of the patterns (delivered digitally).
Choosing a Crochet Hook Size
This easy towel pattern uses a size I (5.5 mm) crochet hook to achieve drapey stitches that are sturdy enough to withstand lots of use.
While meeting the pattern gauge is optional when making towels, you should adjust your hook size if your crochet stitches are too gaping and mesh-like (size down) or stiff and tight (size up).
How to Modify the Towel Size
This basic pattern can be used to create smaller dishcloths or even larger crochet blankets.
To modify the towel width, begin with a stitch multiple of 3, then add 4. This number will be your foundation chain. For example, 45 + 4 = 49 chains to begin.
Pattern Notes and Tips
Don’t let the stripe instructions make the pattern seem more complicated than it is. Beginning with Row 3, the entire towel is crocheted by simply alternating two rows: a double crochet row, and a chain space row.
If you’re a beginner pattern reader, consider making a single-color towel first to get a feel for the pattern and then give the stripes a go. You can do this!
Techniques You'll Practice:
- Reading a crochet pattern
- Learning the boxed block stitch
- Working with two strands of yarn attached at once
Print This Pattern
Prefer to crochet on the couch? Need a portable, printable pattern? You'll love the premium PDF! The instantly downloadable, ad-free file is formatted for easy printing and includes the complete hand towel pattern and all the photo tutorials.
More Free Patterns For Your Home
Deck out your house with stylish and functional crochet projects. Here are a few ideas to get started.
Free Pattern - Casita Tea Towel
Explanation:
Simple to crochet, satisfying to use and gift. The Casita Tea Towel uses basic stitches and creative techniques to create a classic farmhouse look without extra ends to weave in.
With a quaint yet contemporary feel, this crochet tea towel will add an enduring handmade touch to your bathroom or kitchen.
Supplies + Materials
Order an all-in-one kit from Lion Brand.
• Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton (Weight: 4/Medium - 170 yds, 3.5 oz/100 g)
- A: Ecru (761-098C) – 2 entire skeins (approx. 200 g)
- B: Cafe Au Lait (761-126AA) – 1 partial skein (approx. 22 g)
• Size I (5.5 mm) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge
• Stitch marker or safety pin
• T-pins
• Steamer or iron with steam function (alternative: use a spray bottle)
Measurements
14 ½ X 23 ½ ”
Gauge
6 double crochet clusters (18 dc) = 4”
5 ½ double crochet rows + 5 chain space rows = 4”
Abbreviations + Glossary (US Terms)
ch – chain
ch3sp – space created by 3 chains
cluster – set of 3 double crochets
dc – double crochet
rep – repeat
RS – right side
sc – single crochet
sk – skip
slst – slip stitch
st(s) – stitch(es)
tch – turning chain
WS – wrong side
Skill Level
Confident Advanced Beginner. In this pattern you'll practice double crochet stitches and keeping two colors attached at once.
Permissions + Copyright:
Please do not publish or share this pattern as your own. You may make items to sell with this pattern. In exchange, please link back this post. Do NOT use our photos as your own sales photos.
Overall Pattern Notes
Don’t let the stripe instructions make the pattern seem more complicated than it is. Beginning with Row 3, the entire towel is crocheted by simply alternating two types of rows, a double crochet row and a chain space row.
If you’re a beginner pattern reader, consider making a single color towel first to get a feel for the pattern and then give the stripes a go. You can definitely do this!
Main Towel
Notes:
- To modify towel width, begin with a stitch multiple of 3, then add 4. For example, 45 + 4 = 49 chains to begin.
- Chain 3 at beginning of row counts as one double crochet throughout.
- The two-color sections are worked keeping both colors attached to minimize ends to weave in.
First Striped Section:
With Color A:
Foundation Row: Ch 67.
Row 1 (WS): Dc in the fourth ch from hook and each ch to end of row. (65 dc)
Row 2 (RS): Ch 1, sc in first dc, *ch 3, sk next 3 dc, sc in between third and fourth dc; rep from * to end of row placing last sc in tch of previous row. (21 ch3sps)
Row 3 (WS): Ch 3, place 3 dc in each ch3sp across row until last sc remains, dc in last sc; turn. (21 dc clusters + 1 dc at each row end)
Row 4 (RS): Ch 1, sc in first dc, *ch 3, sk 3 dc, sc between dc cluster; rep from * until 1 cluster remains, ch 3, sk 3 dc, sc in last sc; turn. (21 ch3sps)
Row 5 (WS): Rep Row 3.
- While Color B is also in play, one row of each color is worked in one direction, then entire piece is turned and one row is worked in each color in the opposite direction. (So the right side will be facing for two consecutive rows, then the wrong side will be facing for two consecutive rows.) It can be helpful to look at the RS/WS designation for each row if you get lost.
- At end of row, do not fasten off either color. Instead, place a stitch marker in live loop of the color you just finished with and go back to pick up the other color.
- See tutorial above for visual explanation.
Place live loop of Color A on stitch marker. Attach Color B on opposite side from Color A live loop (where Row 5 began). Work Row 6 in same direction as Row 5.
Row 6 (WS): With Color B, rep Row 4. Turn.
Row 7 (RS): With Color A, rep Row 3. Do not turn. Go back and pick up Color B.
Row 8 (RS): With Color B, rep Row 4. Turn.
Row 9 (WS): With Color A, rep Row 3. Do not turn. Go back and pick up Color B.
Rows 10-13: Rep Rows 6-9 once more.
Rows 14-15: Rep Rows 6-7 once more.
Fasten off Color B.
Want some company while you crochet?
Get support (and camaraderie!) in the Make & Do Crochet Crew Facebook Group.
Middle Solid-Colored Section:
To crochet the middle section of the towel, you'll work in the same pattern as before, using only one color throughout.
With Color A only:
Row 16 (WS): Rep Row 4.
Row 17 (RS): Rep Row 3.
Row 18 (WS): Rep Row 4.
Rows 18-51: Rep Rows 3-4, ending with a Row 3.
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Second Striped Section:
Place live loop of Color A on stitch marker. Attach Color B on opposite side of towel from Color A live loop (where Row 51 began). Work Row 52 in same direction as Row 51.
Row 52 (RS): With Color B, rep Row 4. Pick up Color A and turn.
Row 53 (WS): With Color A, rep Row 3. Do not turn. Go back and pick up Color B.
Row 54 (WS): With Color B, rep Row 4. Pick up Color A and turn.
Row 55 (RS): With Color A, rep Row 3. Do not turn. Go back and pick up Color B.
Rows 56-59: Rep Rows 52-55 once more.
Rows 60-61: Rep Rows 52-53 once more.
Fasten off Color B. With Color A only:
Rows 62, 64 (WS): Rep Row 4
Rows 63, 65 (RS): Rep Row 3. Do not fasten off at the end of Row 65.
Our Latest Crochet Inspiration:
Here are a few more free crochet patterns and tutorials that are hot off the presses.
Crochet Towel Border
- See photo tutorial above pattern.
With Color A still attached, border begins by crocheting into Row 65 stitches in opposite direction Row 65 was worked.
TOP: Ch 1, sc into each dc to corner…
SIDE 1: Continue along side placing 2 sc in each double crochet row edge and 1 sc in each chsp row edge to corner…
BOTTOM: Sc in each foundation chain to corner…
SIDE 2: Continue along side placing 2 sc in each double crochet row edge and 1 sc in each chsp row edge to corner, slst to first sc of round. Fasten off.
Finishing
Pin crocheted towel to blocking board using T-pins. Steam block towel by hovering a steamer or iron with steam functionality over towel. Let dry and set overnight.
Weave in remaining ends.
Dry your hard-working hands with pride using your new Casita Tea Towel!
Obsessed with finding the best free crochet patterns?
Check out these collections of handpicked patterns to find your next project.
FAQs About Handmade Towels
Crochet towels can be quite absorbent if made with the right yarn. Cotton, hemp, bamboo, and linen yarns are all absorbent choices for crochet towels and washcloths.
Textured, fairly "closed" crochet stitches work best for towels and washcloths. The texture makes it easier to scrub, and the tighter stitches ensure there is enough fabric to soak up liquids.
Half double and double crochet stitches can work well. For extra interest and texture, try these easy towel stitches:
• Moss stitch
• Suzette stitch
• Herringbone double crochet
• Griddle stitch
• Corner to corner (C2C) crochet
This crochet towel pattern uses two full skeins of yarn plus a small amount of an accent color. Because yardage varies between yarn types and manufacturers, it's best to check your yarn label and pattern to know how much yarn your towel requires.
Generally, you can assume two to three balls of yarn will create a good-sized kitchen or bath hand towel.
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Learn a New Skill
When you're ready to master a new skill, check out our detailed guides that include everything you need to know to level up your crochet game.
- How to Corner to Corner (C2C) Crochet for Beginners - with video tutorials to get you started
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- How to Tunisian Crochet - learn with this video and a standard hook
That was so fun! Now what?
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss crocheting hand towels and lots of other projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each other's questions and share their stitches. Join us!
How to Crochet a Kitchen Towel - A Summary
Materials
Yarn
- Color: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton Weight: 4/Medium - 170 yds, 3.5 oz/100 g
- Ecru 761-098C – 2 entire skeins (approx. 200 g)
- Cafe Au Lait 761-126AA – 1 partial skein (approx. 22 g)
Additional Supplies
- Tapestry needle
- Size I 5.5 mm crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge
- Stitch marker or safety pin
- T-pins
- Steamer or iron with steam function alternative: use a spray bottle
- Blocking board
Abbreviations + Glossary (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- ch3sp – space created by 3 chains
- cluster – set of 3 double crochets
- dc – double crochet
- rep – repeat
- RS – right side
- sc – single crochet
- sk – skip
- slst – slip stitch
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- tch – turning chain
- WS – wrong side
Want some company while you crochet?
Get support (and camaraderie!) in the Make & Do Crochet Crew Facebook Group. Search “Make and Do Crochet Crew” on Facebook.com.
Permissions + Copyright
Please do not publish or share this pattern as your own. You may make items to sell with this pattern. In exchange, please link back to this page. Do NOT use my photos as your own sales photos.
Instructions
Easy Kitchen Towel Pattern - Overview
- 1. Chain 3 at beginning of row counts as one double crochet throughout.
First - Third Striped Section
- 2. With Color A, 67.
- 3. Work on all three colored sections.
Border
- 4. Add a simple border around the towel using the instructions in the pattern.
Finishing
- 5. Pin towel to blocking board and steam block towel using a steamer.
- 6. Dry your hard-working hands with pride using your new Casita Tea Towel!
Overall Pattern Notes
- Don’t let the stripe instructions make the pattern seem more complicated than it is. Beginning with Row 3, the entire towel is crocheted by simply alternating two types of rows, a double crochet row and a chain space row.
- If you’re a beginner pattern reader, consider making a single color towel first to get a feel for the pattern and then give the stripes a go. You can definitely do this!
- Chain 3 at beginning of row counts as one double crochet throughout.
- The two-color sections are worked keeping both colors attached to minimize ends to weave in.
- Get the complete free crochet towel pattern and tutorial above.
Trish says
I'm looking forward to crocheting this towel. I'm not sure why, but lately I just want to crochet kitchen "stuff", and this pattern excited me.
Thank you for the clear instructions and your willingness to share your creations via pattern instruction.