Cream Tea Old Shale Dishcloth Knitting Pattern

Want a dishcloth that feels classic, pretty, and cosy from the very first rows?

Cream Tea Old Shale is knit in warm cream cotton for a soft, timeless look that suits any kitchen.

The stitch pattern is Old Shale, which creates gentle, scalloped waves across the fabric.

It looks delicate and lacy, but the finished cloth, made from sturdy cotton yarn, is still absorbent and practical for everyday use.

This one pairs beautifully with the blush and green shades in the collection, like a little tea-time moment among the garden and ballroom colors.

Inspired by Bridgerton

This pattern is part of my Bridgerton-inspired dishcloth collection, where each design is paired with a cotton yarn shade chosen to match the mood of the series: crisp neutrals, soft pastels, garden greens, and rich jewel tones.

Most of the patterns feature lace textures and easy repeats, making them quick, relaxing projects to knit while you watch the show, and a fun way to learn new stitch patterns as you go.

It’s a simple way to add a little Regency-style charm to everyday knitting.

You can get a printable version in a bundle with all 10 patterns in the collection.

Bridgerton inspired dishcloths with lace knitting

Before You Get Started

Skill Level – Easy (Advanced beginner)
Old Shale is built with a simple rhythm of decreases (k2tog) and yarn overs (yo); that combination is what forms the lacy wave texture.
The pattern includes knit rows between the lace rows, which makes it easier to memorize and gives the cloth a nice balance of texture and stability.
If you’re new to this stitch, take your time on Row 1 and count your repeats as you go. After a couple of repeats, it becomes very relaxing.
Wet blocking helps the waves look crisp and even, especially in cotton.

Materials Needed

Yarn: Drops Paris (75/Cream), 100% Cotton – 50g / 75m / 82yds
Needles: 5 mm / US 8 knitting needles
Yarn needle
Measuring tape
Scissors

Size Information

Dishcloth: 9.5 x 9.5 inches / 24 x 24 cm
Hanging loop (length): 3.5 inches / 9 cm
Gauge: 17 sts x 22 rows

Abbreviations

K2tog – knit the next two stitches together
K – knit
P – purl
Rep – repeat
RS – right side
Sts – stitches
YO – yarn over

Pattern Instructions

Notes

Stitch multiple: Multiple of 18 stitches
This pattern creates a lacy, wavy texture. Keeping a steady rhythm on Row 1 helps the fabric look neat.

Dishcloth

Cast on 38 sts.

K 2 rows.

Row 1 (RS): K1, *[K2tog] 3 times, [K1, YO] 6 times, [K2tog] 3 times; rep from * to last st, K1.
Rows 2 and 3: Knit.
Row 4: K1, P to last st, K1.

Rep Rows 1–4 until the piece measures 9 inches / 23 cm.

K 2 rows.

Cast off.

Weave in all loose ends.

Wet block to shape for best results.

Hanging Loop (Optional)

Cast on 16 sts.
K 2 rows.
Cast off.

Weave in loose ends.

Sew to the top left corner of the finished dishcloth.

Weave in any remaining loose ends.

FAQ

What does “Old Shale” look like?

Old Shale creates a repeating wave pattern made from yarn overs and decreases.

It has a soft, lacy look, almost like gentle ruffles, without being overly open or holey.

Is this stitch beginner-friendly?

If you’re comfortable knitting and purling, you can absolutely do this.

The lace row (Row 1) is the only “busy” row, and the knit rows in between make it easier to keep track.

Why do I need to block this dishcloth?

Blocking helps the wave pattern settle and look more even, especially after the first wash.

It’s the best way to show off the stitch texture.

Can I buy this pattern to print out?

Yes! You can get a printable version in a bundle with all 10 patterns in the collection.

cleaning a plate with the knitted dishcloth

I love seeing your finished projects on social media.

If you enjoyed making the Cream Tea Old Shale Dishcloth Knititng Pattern, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, tag me @handylittleme or #handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo.

I’d love to see your work.

Happy Knitting!