We need to talk about cotton yarn, because I really feel like it’s a little bit underrated. Do you know all the amazing properties of cotton yarn? Buckle up, because I’m about to tell you all the reasons why you NEED to be using cotton yarn for crochet.
I feel like cotton yarn gets a bad rap sometimes because it’s cheap, it’s stiff, and – let’s face it – it can be a little scratchy sometimes too. But there really is so much to love about cotton yarn crochet patterns. Cotton yarn, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways…
- Cotton yarn doesn’t have a lot of stretch. This makes it great for things like crochet market bags!
- Cotton yarn is a very strong material. What better option could there be for things that have to have a good structure – like crochet baskets.
- Cotton yarn is a little scratchy. Yes, sometimes this can be a good thing, because this scratchiness translates to scrubbiness. That’s perfect for wash cloths!
- Cotton yarn is breathable. For this reason, it can be an excellent option for summery crochet garments like tank tops.
- Cotton yarn is hypoallergenic. That makes it great for folks with sensitive skin – like babies!
- Cotton yarn is heat-resistant. Hello cute crochet hot pads and coasters!
- Cotton yarn is stiff. That’s why it’s such a popular choice for crochet doilies.
- Cotton yarn is made from plants. It is a good alternative to yarns like acrylic, which are made from plastic.
- Cotton yarn is machine washable. So it’s a great choice for hand towels, because who wants to wash those by hand?
- Cotton yarn is cheap, so it’s a great budget-friendly option for economic crafters.
Need more reasons to want to crochet with cotton yarn? How about 10 free crochet cotton yarn patterns! Scroll down to see them for yourself.
1. Sakura Market Bag
Strong and sturdy cotton yarn is a great choice for crochet market bags. It isn’t very stretchy, so your bag will keep its shape even after you load it up with goodies at the farmer’s market. Plus, this design is much cuter than your average market bag!
Designer: K.A.M.E. Crochet
Click here for the free pattern!
2. C2C Moss Stitch Washcloth
Cotton’s durable and quick-drying properties make it the perfect candidate for crochet washcloths. The stiff texture of cotton yarn also comes in handy for scrubbing. Plus, there are so many cute multicolor options out there for cotton yarn!
Designer: The Cookie Snob
Click here for the free pattern!
3. Mosaic Basket
Cotton yarn is also a great choice for crochet baskets because it is stiff and sturdy. If you have tried to crochet baskets before but gotten discouraged by floppy sides, then you should really give this Mosaic Basket a try. The cotton yarn combined with a colorful acrylic really makes it pop.
Designer: Yarn + Chai
Click here for the free pattern!
4. Aestas Top
Cotton yarn isn’t just great for crocheting things for around the house. You can also make cute clothes with it! Cotton is a nice, breathable fiber that won’t warm you up too much during the heat of the summer. Is there anything that cotton yarn can’t do?
Designer: Hooked by Anna
Click here for the free pattern!
5. Hexi Puff Coaster
One more fantastic thing about cotton yarn is that it is very heat-resistant. So you can put hot beverages on top of your cute new Hexi Puff Coasters without worrying about scorch marks or melted yarn. Because you don’t need those bad vibes when you’re trying to relax and enjoy some coffee or tea!
Designer: TLYC Blog
Click here for the free pattern!
6. Rattle Bunny Two-Legged
It’s common to see baby items made from cotton – in the crochet world and in the big box stores too! This is probably because cotton is hypoallergenic, so it’s a safe choice for baby’s sensitive skin. Try it out with this cute little stuffed bunny – just scroll down the page after you click on the link to see the English translation.
Designer: Lanukas
Click here for the free pattern!
7. Moonpetals
The stiff qualities of cotton make it a great candidate for crochet doilies. These types of projects rely on their structure to make the intricate lacework stand out. This stunning showpiece would look amazing on your kitchen table, don’t you think?
Designer: Draiguna
Click here for the free pattern!
8. Farmhouse Striped Kitchen Towel
Hmm, what amazing quality of cotton yarn have I not talked about yet? How about the fact that it’s machine washable! A crochet kitchen towel is both cute and practical when you can throw it in the wash after you use it.
Designer: A Crocheted Simplicity
Click here for the free pattern!
9. Squared Waffle Hot pad
Cotton yarn can stand up to hot beverages and hot pans too. Combine it with thick and squishy waffle stitch, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination. It just might be the most perfect crochet hot pad I’ve ever seen!
Designer: Buttonnose Crochet
Click here for the free pattern!
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10. Flower Face Scrubby
Do you use cotton pads to wash your face? Make the smart switch and opt for crocheted cotton pads instead. You’ll save money, and it’s better for the environment too. Talk about a win-win! Plus, these Flower Face Scrubbies are just too cute to pass up.
Designer: Crafts by Sarah Liz
Click here for the free pattern!
There you go, folks – everything you never wanted to know about cotton yarn! Seriously, though, if you learned something today, then be sure to tell your friends. Sharing is caring! Did you have a favorite free crochet pattern from this list? Tell me in the comments below!
You know what else used cotton yarn? Dishcloths! Try one of these marvelous designs to use in your home. Click HERE.
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