Cabled Owl Washcloth

The cabled owl pattern became popular in the 1970s and has remained a favorite among knitters for its fun, textured design. I’m taking this classic motif and showing you how to recreate it in crochet, worked into a practical washcloth. It’s a fun way to try out the owl cable design while making something you can actually use!

You’ll find everything you need to crochet the washcloth below, including the yarn, crochet hook, a free pattern, and a video tutorial that includes how to not worry about gauge and still make a square. If you like this pattern, please share it!

You will find a left hand tutorial at the bottom of this page.

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Contents hide
1 Disclaimer
2 Crochet Tutorials
3 Suggested Yarn
4 Other Yarn Options
5 Crochet Hook Used For Pattern
6 Additional Supplies Needed
7 Gauge For Pattern
8 Finished Measurements
9 Video Tutorial
10 Pin for Later
11 Construction
12 Abbreviations Used
13 Special Instructions for Pattern
14 COPYRIGHT
15 Cabled Owl Washcloth
16 Washcloth Instructions
17 Finishing Instructions
18 Left Hand Video Tutorial
18.1 Share this:
18.2 Like this:

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links for the items I used to crochet this pattern, at no cost to you. I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. This blog post also displays ads. The revenue from ads and affiliate links allows me to offer this crochet pattern for free. Please do not copy, paste, or distribute this pattern. If you prefer not to view the pattern on the blog, you may purchase an ad-free digital PDF in my pattern shops for a small fee (link below). Thank you so much for your support!

Crochet Tutorials

If you’re new to crochet, no worries! I have many beginner tutorial videos to guide you through every step of the process. My tutorials are designed to be easy to follow and will help you master the basics and beyond. You can use the search bar anytime to look for a particular stitch or technique.

Suggested Yarn

I used Dishie yarn from Knit Picks/WeCrochet for this project because it’s a classic worsted-weight, 100% cotton yarn known for its durability. What really makes it a favorite for me is the tight spin—it holds its structure beautifully, feels sturdy without being stiff, and doesn’t split while you’re working, which makes crocheting smooth and frustration-free. It’s easy to see your stitches, glides well on the hook, and holds up great to regular use and washing.

Other Yarn Options

If you’d like to substitute another yarn for the washcloth, look for 100% cotton yarn in worsted weight, you will need approximately 80 yards for each washcloth.

Below are some other options that are a great substitute for the Dishie, at multiple price points.

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Lily’s Sugar and Cream Cotton Yarn is perfect for a wide range of crafting projects. Made from 100% natural cotton fibers, it offers softness, durability, and easy care. With a vibrant array of colors to choose from, including solids, stripes, and ombres, Lily’s Sugar and Cream Cotton Yarn adds a pop of color and texture to any project.

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Berroco Bozzolo yarn is a luxurious and elegant option for crocheters who appreciate fine craftsmanship. This yarn is made from 100% cotton, offering a soft and supple texture with a slight sheen. Its chainette construction adds extra durability and a light, airy feel to your projects.

Crochet Hook Used For Pattern

You’ll need a 6mm [US-J] crochet hook for this project.

After testing numerous brands of crochet hooks, I’ve narrowed down my favorites. Below, you’ll find my top picks, ranked from least to most expensive.

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Clover Soft Touch Amour crochet hooks are my absolute favorite! Their comfy, soft handles make long crochet sessions a breeze.

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For just slightly more money, Etimo Tulip Crochet hooks are another winner in my book. With their cushioned, ergonomic handles and smooth hooks, they make crocheting with any kind of yarn super easy.

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For those of you who like to splurge, Furls Crochet hooks are beautiful hooks made from resin, wood, and metal. Their ergonomic design and polished surfaces make each stitch smooth and effortless. Treat yourself to these elegant hooks for a truly premium crochet experience.

Additional Supplies Needed

The only other thing you will need is a yarn needle to weave in the ends. My favorite yarn needles are made of metal, they are easy to slide through any yarn. I like the Susan Bates option below.

Gauge For Pattern

To achieve the same size as listed below, you will need the following gauge: 4″ = 13 STS and 14.5 rows in pattern.

Finished Measurements

The finished washcloth will be approx. 9″ square.

Video Tutorial

Pin for Later

If you’re not ready to start the project yet, pin this page to head back quickly.

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Construction

The washcloth body is worked flat in rows and then the border is worked in the round at the end.

Abbreviations Used

  • CH: chain
  • DC: double crochet
  • FPDC: front post double crochet
  • FPTR: front post treble crochet
  • RND: round
  • RSC: reverse single crochet
  • SC: single crochet
  • SL ST: slip stitch
  • ST(S): stitch(es)

Special Instructions for Pattern

  • Read through the pattern before beginning.
  • The pattern is worked from top to bottom.
  • For a more dense edging (like the grey washcloth pictured), put a RSC in each stitch/row around,
  • For a more spread out edging (like the cream washcloth pictured) put a RSC in every other stitch/row around. Stretch the starting loop out so the stitches lay flat against the edge.
  • Watch the video tutorial if you need help on how to make the special stitches.

The pattern and all related content are the exclusive property of Knit and Crochet Ever After, protected under copyright and intellectual property laws. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or transmission in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, screenshots, printing, or other electronic or mechanical methods, is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from me.

This free crochet pattern is intended for personal use only on the blog. By accessing this pattern, you agree to comply with these copyright terms and conditions. Unauthorized sharing or reproduction may result in legal consequences.

Thank you for respecting my hard work and intellectual property!

Cabled Owl Washcloth

Get the ad-free version of the washcloth pattern to work from from my Fourthwall or Ravelry shops. Enjoy a clean, easy-to-read format without distractions. Click the links below to support my work and allow me to make more patterns for you to enjoy!

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Washcloth Instructions

CH 31

Row 1: Turn, beginning in 2nd CH from hook, SC in each CH across. 30 STS

Row 2: Turn, CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Row 3-6: Repeat Row 2. 30 STS

Row 7: Turn, CH 1, SC in next 10 STS, skip next 2 STS, SC in next 3 STS, FPTR around 2 previous skipped stitches of row below, skip next 3 STS, FPTR around next 2 STS of row below, SC in each of 3 previous skipped STS, skip next 2 STS, SC in last 10 STS. 30 STS

Row 8: Turn, CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Row 9: Turn, CH 1, SC in next 10 STS, FPDC around next 2 STS of row below, skip previous 2 STS, SC in next ST, FPDC in next 4 FPTR of two rows below, skip previous 4 STS, SC in next ST, FPDC around next 2 STS of row below, skip previous 2 STS, SC in last 10 STS. 30 STS

Row 10: Turn, CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Rows 11: Turn, CH 1, SC in next 10 STS, FPDC around next 2 FPDC of 2 rows below, skip previous 2 STS, SC in next ST, FPDC in next 4 FPDC of two rows below, skip previous 4 STS, SC in next ST, FPDC around next 2 FPDC of 2 rows below, skip previous 2 STS, SC in last 10 STS. 30 STS

Row 12: Turn CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Row 13-14: Repeat Rows 11 and 12. 30 STS

Row 15: Turn, CH 1, SC in next 10 STS, skip next 2 STS, SC in next 3 STS, FPTR around 2 previous FPDC skipped stitches of 2 rows below, skip next 3 STS, FPTR around next two FPDC stitches of 2 rows below, SC in each of 3 previous skipped STS, skip next 2 STS, SC in last 10 STS. 30 STS

Row 16: Turn, CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Row 17: Repeat Row 9. 30 STS

Row 18: Turn, CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Rows 19-26: Repeat Rows 11 and 12 four times. 30 STS

Row 27: Repeat Row 15. 30 STS

Row 28: Turn, CH 1, SC in each ST across. 30 STS

Rows 29-33: Repeat Row 28. 30 STS

Do not fasten off, go to Finishing Instructions

Finishing Instructions

RND 1: Do not turn, CH 1, RSC evenly around entire outside of washcloth. Perform 3 RSC in each corner to make turns. Join RND with SL ST.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

I hope you enjoy this pattern and would love to see what you make with it. Be sure to tag me on Insta or Facebook with @knitandcrocheteverafter, I love seeing what you guys come up with!

 

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f elegance to your creations. The smooth texture and vibrant hues make it great for scarves and shawls.

Left Hand Video Tutorial

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