.traveller. said:
Does anyone actually knit cloths for this purpose rather than reusing an existing scarf? I was wondering which stitch patterns would look nicest for something like a spreadcloth.
I have not knitted any spreadcloths, I have sewed a few from two cotton fabrics (one side with print, other side plain) but as it happens, I use them more for covers for my baskets than as actually spread cloths. So they have become more of multi-purpose cloths.
As for what stitches to use for a cloth - I would keep it in one colour and use different stitches to make a pattern in relief. It also depends on how easy you want to keep it or want it a bit more challenging.
For example, you could use herringbone, butterfly or basket weave:
http://knitting.about.com/od/knittingstitchesgi/g/herringbone.htm
http://knitting.about.com/od/stitchglossary/g/butterfly.htm
http://knitting.about.com/od/knittingglossary/g/basketweave.htm
I think seed stitch and moss stitch look nice as well but the knit one, purl one can get boring to do.
You can also make different swatches and put them together. As long as it is still in one colour it does not get busy and you have the chance to try out different things. Cables look nice too but that may make the cloth too bumpy.
Can you tell that I am playing with different stitches at the moment
?
I know some people knit dish cloths and they try out different stitches on those - but I'd rather make a spread cloth...I don't have the heart to use my knitting for cleaning up icky stuff