Crochet Double-Thick Potholder

Instructions

Tap a section when you finish it.

1. 1Foundation and row 1With A, ch 36. Row 1: 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook, *ch 1, skip 1 ch, 1 sc in the next ch* 17 times (18 sc and 17 ch = 35 sts). In moss stitch, sc and chains alternate; on the following rows the sc go into the ch-sps of the row below, creating a dense surface like woven fabric.
2. 2Row 2Ch 1 (does not count), turn. 1 sc in the first sc, *1 sc in the ch-sp, ch 1, skip the next sc* 16 times, 1 sc in the last ch-sp, 1 sc in the last sc (35 sts). On this row there are two sc side by side at each edge, which keeps the edges straight.
3. 3Row 3Ch 1 (does not count), turn. 1 sc in the first sc, *ch 1, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the ch-sp* 16 times, ch 1, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the last sc (35 sts). This row returns to the layout of row 1.
4. 4First squareAlternate rows 2 and 3 until you have worked 42 rows (row 42 is like row 2). The piece should measure about 19 x 19 cm. If it isn't square, adjust by adding or removing rows at the end, keeping an even number. Cut the yarn leaving 15 cm.
5. 5Second squareWith B, make an identical square (35 sts, 42 rows) but don't cut the yarn. Compare the two; they should be the same size. If needed, dampen both and pin them to the same size to dry.
6. 6Joining edgePlace the squares together with wrong sides facing and square B towards you. With B, work sc through the edges of both layers: 1 sc in every stitch and every ch-sp along the top and bottom, 1 sc in every row end along the sides, and 3 sc in each corner. Join the round with a sl st to the first sc.
7. 7Hanging loopAt the centre sc of any corner, ch 12 and sl st into the same stitch. Work as many sc as will fit into the loop (about 16 sc) and finish with a sl st into the corner. A loop covered in single crochet will stand up to hanging for a long time.
8. 8FinishingHide the ends between the two layers. Wet the potholder and dry it flat in a square shape; being cotton, it can be pressed under a damp cloth. For very hot pots and trays, folding the potholder in half gives extra protection.