The Dewdrop Gingham Placemats: A Free Knitting Pattern for Textured, Spring-Inspired Table Linens

Introducing the Dewdrop Gingham Placemats

Elevate your spring table setting with these charming gingham placemats, featuring a unique slipped-stitch texture that mimics delicate dewdrops on a checkered field. This free knitting pattern offers a modern twist on a classic farmhouse look, perfect for adding a touch of handcrafted elegance to your home. The textured squares create a dimensional, woven appearance that catches the light beautifully, making every meal feel special. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a confident beginner, this pattern is designed to be both rewarding and relaxing.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the exact materials will help you achieve the best results, but feel free to substitute with similar worsted weight cotton yarns.

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (e.g., Lily Sugar'n Cream) in two contrasting colors:
  • Color A (Main): Soft White – approximately 200 yards per placemat
  • Color B (Contrast): Sage Green – approximately 200 yards per placemat
• Needles: US Size 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles, or size needed to obtain gauge
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, stitch markers (optional)
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette stitch, after blocking. Important: Take time to check your gauge for a perfect fit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Size and Abbreviations

Finished Size: Approximately 12 x 18 inches (can be adjusted by adding multiples of 4 stitches and 6 rows).

Abbreviations:

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sl1 wyif: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front
• Sl1 wyib: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in back
• Rep: Repeat
• St(s): Stitch(es)

Pattern Notes

• The gingham pattern is created by alternating blocks of color using slipped stitches. The slipped stitches also create a subtle textured 'dewdrop' effect.
• Carry the unused color loosely up the side of the work. Do not cut yarn until instructed.
• The placemat is worked flat in rows.

Getting Started: Cast On and Bottom Border

With Color A (Soft White), CO 60 sts.

Border (bottom edge):

• Row 1 (RS): With A, K all sts.
• Row 2 (WS): With A, K all sts.
• Row 3 (RS): With A, K all sts.
• Row 4 (WS): With A, K all sts.

Main Pattern: Creating the Gingham and Dewdrops

Repeat the following two blocks (Block 1 and Block 2) until the placemat measures approximately 17.5 inches from the cast-on edge. Important: End after a Row 10 or Row 16 to ensure pattern continuity before the top border.

Block 1 (Color A dominant – White squares)

• Row 5 (RS): With A, K1 (edge), *Sl1 wyib, K3; rep from * to last st, K1 (edge).
• Row 6 (WS): With A, K1, *Sl1 wyif, P3; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 7 (RS): With B (Sage Green), K1, *K1, Sl1 wyib, K2; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 8 (WS): With B, K1, *P2, Sl1 wyif, P1; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 9 (RS): With A, K1, *K2, Sl1 wyib, K1; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 10 (WS): With A, K1, *P1, Sl1 wyif, P2; rep from * to last st, K1.

Block 2 (Color B dominant – Green squares)

• Row 11 (RS): With B, K1, *Sl1 wyib, K3; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 12 (WS): With B, K1, *Sl1 wyif, P3; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 13 (RS): With A, K1, *K1, Sl1 wyib, K2; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 14 (WS): With A, K1, *P2, Sl1 wyif, P1; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 15 (RS): With B, K1, *K2, Sl1 wyib, K1; rep from * to last st, K1.
• Row 16 (WS): With B, K1, *P1, Sl1 wyif, P2; rep from * to last st, K1.

Finishing: Top Border and Bind Off

Border (top edge):

• Row 1 (RS): With A, K all sts.
• Row 2 (WS): With A, K all sts.
• Row 3 (RS): With A, K all sts.
• Row 4 (WS): With A, K all sts.

Bind off loosely in knit on a WS row. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Block gently to size, pinning edges to open up the slipped stitch texture. Allow to dry completely before use.

Enjoy your beautiful, handcrafted Dewdrop Gingham Placemats – the perfect spring accent for your table!