Crochet Lemon Peel Stitch Dishcloth Pattern (Free Printable)

If you want to learn a simple, beautiful stitch that creates a soft, textured fabric, this crochet lemon peel stitch pattern is a lovely one to try.

It uses basic stitches to make a dense, practical fabric with a bumpy texture that works especially well for a dishcloth or washcloth.

Whether you are brand new to crochet or looking for a relaxing project, this is a great stitch to keep in your pattern collection.

It is one of those stitches that looks impressive, but once you understand the rhythm, it becomes very easy to remember.

The texture is created by alternating single crochet stitches and double crochet across the row, then repeating that same sequence on every row.

Before You Get Started

• The lemon peel stitch is made by alternating a single crochet and a double crochet stitch across each row.
• Because the stitches alternate, the fabric has a gently pebbled look that feels substantial without being too stiff.
• For this pattern, you will begin with an odd number of chains.
• This pattern is ideal for beginners because it helps you practice tension, stitch placement, and reading the previous row.
• Once you have worked a few rows, the pattern becomes easy to see, and you will know exactly where to place each new stitch.

Materials

• 1 x Lily Sugar’n Cream cotton yarn (120yds/109m)
• 5 mm/H-8 crochet hook
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle

This project is designed for worsted-weight yarn, which gives the dishcloth a sturdy feel that is perfect for everyday kitchen use.

Size Information

Small

• Without border: 8 x 8 inches / 20 x 20 cm
• With border: 9 x 9 inches / 23 x 23 cm

Large

• Without border: 10 x 10 inches / 25 x 25 cm
• With border: 11 x 11 inches / 28 x 28 cm

Gauge

13 sc and 14 rows = 4 x 4 inches / 10 x 10 cm

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch: chain
• dc: double crochet
• sc: single crochet
• st: stitch
• sl st: slip stitch

A note on UK terms

If you use UK crochet terms, be aware that the names of the stitches are different.

In US terms:

• single crochet = UK double crochet
• double crochet = UK treble crochet

So when following this pattern, make sure you are using the US version throughout.

Pattern Instructions

Choose your size, then start with an odd number of chains and add 1 extra chain for the turning chain.

• 8-inch dishcloth: ch 29, which gives 28 sts for approximately 8 inches
• 10-inch dishcloth: ch 35, which gives 34 sts for approximately 10 inches

Tip: If you crochet tightly, go up a hook size or add 2 chains. If you crochet loosely, go down a hook size or subtract 2 chains.

Dishcloth Body

Row 1

• sc in the second chain from the hook, dc in the next ch.
• *(sc in the next ch, dc in the next ch), Repeat from * across.
• You will have a starting chain minus 1 stitch.

Row 2

• ch 1, turn.
• *(sc in the first st, dc in the next st), Repeat from * across.
• You will have the same stitch count.

Rows 3+

Repeat Row 2 until your piece is a square, or continue until you reach your preferred length.

Fasten off with a sl-st in the last st, if you are changing color for the border.

Border

Round 1

Join yarn in any corner, ch 1, then work sc evenly around the entire dishcloth.

• Work 3 sc in each corner
• Along the side edges, work 1 sc into each row end

Please note:

• If the edge pulls in, work 2 sc into every other row end
• If it ripples, skip a row end occasionally

Join with sl-st to the first sc.

Optional Round 2

For an extra tidy finish, work another round of sc in the same way, placing 3 sc in each corner.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Free Printable

To make this project even easier, I’ve created a free printable version of the crochet lemon peel stitch pattern.

You can keep it handy while you work; there’s no need to keep checking your phone or scrolling through the blog.

It’s perfect for printing out or saving to your tablet for easy access anytime.

Sizing Notes

Your finished size will vary slightly depending on your tension and the cotton yarn you choose.

If you want a smaller or larger cloth, simply adjust the starting chain by adding or subtracting chains in multiples of 2.

When working the foundation row, pay close attention to the next chain and the second chain from the hook so the stitch pattern begins correctly.

As you continue, the stitch sequence becomes much easier to spot by the end of the row.

Why You’ll Love This Stitch

The lemon peel stitch is popular because it is simple, versatile, and practical.

It creates a fabric that is absorbent, slightly textured, and reversible, which makes it ideal for kitchen and home projects.

It also works beautifully for:

• baby blankets
• scarves
• cushion covers
• table runners
• washcloth sets

Because it uses only two familiar stitches, it is a lovely choice for anyone who wants to move beyond the very basics without learning anything too complicated.

Share Your Make

Once you finish your project, I’d love to see it.

Tag me on Instagram @handylittleme or use #handylittleme to show off your makes.

Join the Handy Little Me Facebook Group to share photos, ask questions, and connect with other makers.

Seeing your makes is always one of my favorite parts of running this blog, and it is such a joy to watch a simple stitch turn into something useful and beautiful.

FAQ

What is the difference between lemon peel stitch and suzette stitch?

These two stitches look similar at first glance because they both combine single and double crochet.

The difference is in where the stitches are placed.

In lemon peel stitch, you alternate sc and dc all the way across every row.

In suzette stitch, you usually work a single crochet and double crochet into the same stitch, then skip the next stitch.

That gives the suzette stitch a slightly fuller and more clustered look, while lemon peels create a more even, pebbled texture.

What size crochet hook for lemon peel stitch?

The best hook size depends on your yarn and the kind of fabric you want.

For a cotton dishcloth made with Lily Sugar’n Cream, a 5 mm hook works well.

If your stitches feel tight, go up a size. If your fabric feels too loose, go down a size.

Always check how your swatch feels in your hands, especially for practical items like cloths and home accessories.

What is the prettiest crochet stitch for blankets?

That really depends on the style you love.

The prettiest stitch for one person may not be the same for another.

Lemon peel stitch is a favorite because it is simple, elegant, and nicely textured without looking too busy.

Other beautiful choices for blankets include moss stitch, shell stitch, and waffle stitch.

If you want something classic, soft, and beginner-friendly, lemon peel is still an excellent option.

More Dishcloth Crochet Patterns

If you enjoyed making this pattern, you might also like these simple kitchen projects:

• easy single crochet dishcloth
• moss stitch washcloth
• granny square dishcloth
• ribbed cotton cloth
• farmhouse style crochet kitchen set

These small projects are useful, satisfying to make, and perfect for gift baskets or adding a handmade touch to your home.

Happy crocheting!