My Earth Day Tradition Continues: Two (Temporarily) Free Towel Patterns
I can’t believe this is the 9th year in a row that I have continued my Earth Day tradition of releasing a set of kitchen towel patterns to celebrate the day! If you’re new around here, every year since 2018 I have dropped a new knit and crochet towel pattern, free for three days only, in honor of Earth Day. This year we have solid color dishcloths with texture for days. Scroll down to find the new Elm Street and Vine Street Dishcloth patterns for free through Friday, April 24th, 2026 at 11:59pm EST, after which they will return to normal pricing and join my Purposeful Patterns initiative whereby $1 from the sale of each pattern will be donated to Climate Justice Alliance.
During this three-day period, you can also purchase a bundle of all 9 years of towels for only $22! This is over 50% off the retail value and will only be available until Friday, April 24th, 2026 at 11:59pm EST.
Get the Crochet bundle here.
GET THE KNIT BUNDLE HERE.
Every year I write this blog post about Earth Day, I come back to the idea of small, everyday changes we can all make in our lives to create a positive shift toward protecting the planet. I talk about using what we have, choosing reusable over disposable, and making things that last … and I still believe in those things, but as the years pass these little choices don’t feel like enough on their own.
A lot of the biggest decisions affecting the environment aren’t happening in our kitchens or our homes, but on a much larger scale in policies, protections, and systems that shape what’s possible in the first place. So while individual choices still matter, they’re only part of the picture.
If you’re also feeling disheartened by the Trump administration’s constant rollbacks on environmental protections, make sure you’re taking these steps to stay engaged and keep the fight going:
Stay informed about environmental issues that affect your community
Support organizations doing on-the-ground work
Contact representatives about issues that are important to you
Vote with intention when environmental policies are on the line
Personally I think that last one is especially important. If you want to see how the representatives in your state have voted when it comes to environmental protections, check out this amazing database by the LCV. It sorts all congressional reps by state and gives them each a score of 1-100%, tracking their lifetime history of pro- or anti-environmental votes.
When it feels like we are powerless to affect big change, it’s even more important to focus on our own communities. One of the tragic realities of today’s world is that climate change disproportionately affects low-income folks, Indigenous peoples, and communities of color. For these reasons I have chosen to support Climate Justice Alliance this year through the sales of the Elm Street and Vine Street Dishcloths. With a mission to fight climate change while also addressing inequality, justice, and community power, CJA supports people most affected by pollution and climate change. Their work is so important because historically, less than 3% of climate funding has gone to frontline communities working on grassroots solutions.
This year the inspiration for my towels came from the idea that these items are meant to stand the test of time. Handmade pieces are often passed down generations and considered heirlooms, and I wanted these towels to reflect that. I focused on adjectives like classic, timeless, and heritage when it came to the design, and I landed on using one of my favorite enclaves in Cincinnati as the inspo. Since moving back home to Cincy (temporarily until we find a more permanent spot back on the east coast), I’ve been really exploring the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood downtown with all of its shops and restaurants and vibes. This neighborhood is renowned as one of the largest and most intact urban historic districts in the country, and it boasts street after street with dense brick architecture. These iconic brick buildings are what ultimately inspired me, and I used brick concept in the stitch repeats for both towels. Vine and Elm are two of my favorite streets in the neighborhood, so I named the dishcloths for them.
Vine Street in Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati
Looking for other sustainable living pattern ideas? Check out some of my favorite crochet market bags:
A free version of this pattern can be found on my blog here.
Perfect for the beach, the park, or a stroll through town, the Harlow Market Tote will elegantly store all of your spring essentials. The granny squares that make up the bag are taken up a notch with lines of puff stitches to add dimension and interest and arranged in a special way to create the rounded bottom.
Shop the full kit here.
SIZES
One size
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Width: 14”/35.5cm
Length: 14”/35.5cm
Strap Length: 16”/40.5cm
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
SKILLS
Single crochet
Double crochet
Slip stitches
Working into chain spaces
Puff stitches
Seaming
All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
SELLING FINISHED ITEMS
Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically.
HELP
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
A free version of this pattern can be found on my blog here.
Bold mitered squares get arranged in a magical way to form this rounded bottom tote perfect for a stroll through your favorite beach town.
Shop the full kit here.
SIZES
One size
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Length: 15”/38cm
Width: 15”/38cm
Strap Length: 16”/41cm
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
SKILLS
Single crochet
Double crochet
Treble crochet
Sc2tog
Seaming
Slip stitch
All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
SELLING FINISHED ITEMS
Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically.
HELP
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
You can find a free version of this pattern on the blog here.
+ DESCRIPTION
Head to the beach or the market in style with your own French market bag. Constructed from a large net square, this durable tote is lightweight and expandable to fit your goodies from the farmers' market, your beach essentials, or a few bushels of wildflowers.
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using their 24/7 Cotton yarn. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is an intermediate level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet, single crocheting 2 and 3 stitches together, half double crochet, treble crochet, chaining and skipping stitches, working into chain spaces, and working in back and forth rows as well as in the round.
+ SIZING
Width: 16”/41cm
Length: 17”/43cm
Straps: 20”/51cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
The pattern and photographs of this garment are the property of Two of Wands. This pattern and design are subject to copyright, and are for personal, non-commercial use only. You may not distribute or sell this pattern or any items created using the directions in this pattern without consent. For more information, please visit the policies here.
You can find a free version of this pattern on the blog here.
+ DESCRIPTION
This mesh bag set is the ultimate duo in accessories! A roomy tote for market scores, beach day essentials, or picnic must-haves in addition to a chic bottle bag to ensure you are always hydrated make the perfect pair this season. These quick projects are stylish, quick, and functional – the best combo!
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using their 24/7 Cotton yarn. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is an intermediate level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet, double crochet, slip stitch, and chaining and skipping stitches.
+ SIZING
Tote Bag:
A Width laying flat: 21”/53.5cm
B Length: 15”/38cm
C Depth: 7”/18cm
D Strap length: 15”/38cm
Bottle Bag:
A Circumference: 10”/25.5cm
B Length (adjustable): 7”/18cm
C Strap length: 50”/127cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
The patterns and photographs of items on this site are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These patterns files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically. Small batch sales of finished pieces made from these patterns are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
You can find a free version of this pattern on the blog here.
+ DESCRIPTION
The circle bag isn’t just this season’s must-have accessory – it’s a classic shape with timeless appeal that’s sure to be a staple for years to come. The simple construction and sophisticated look will have you whipping these up in every shade of the rainbow!
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using their Rewind yarn. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is an easy level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet, slip stitch, working in the round and in back and forth rows, and working into chain spaces.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
Diameter: 15”/38cm
Strap length: 15”/38cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this garment are the property of Two of Wands. This pattern and design are subject to copyright, and are for personal, non-commercial use only. You may not distribute or sell this pattern or any items created using the directions in this pattern without consent. For more information, please visit the policies here.
+ DESCRIPTION
The Field Trip Tote will immediately become the bag of your dreams! Oversized and roomy to fit all of your essentials and more, this tote has reinforced surface crochet details to help it retain its shape and prevent too much stretching.
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using their Rewind yarn. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is an easy level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are the half double crochet, single crochet, slip stitch, working flat and in the round, and surface crochet.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
Width: 22”/56cm
Height: 13”/33cm
Depth: 6”/15cm
Strap length: 15”/38cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These patterns files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically. Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
Bring out your inner French girl with this basket-inspired tote. Perfect for strolling seaside streets lined with cafes and bistros, it fits all of the essentials and more.
Shop the full kit here.
SIZES
One size
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Width: 17”/43cm
Height: 14”/35.5cm
Strap length: 16”/40.5cm
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
SKILLS
Single crochet
Slip stitch
Spike stitches
Working in spiral rounds
All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
SELLING FINISHED ITEMS
Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically.
HELP
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
+ DESCRIPTION
What’s the perfect companion for any trip? A bag that can stow all of your essentials and accompany you day or night. This bucket bag serves as an elevated tote or oversized purse that’s all at once elegant, comfortable, and strong. The solid crochet body and cord straps are tough enough to handle everything from a change of clothes to a bundle of local market goodies.
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using 24/7 Cotton yarn. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is an easy level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet, working in the round, chaining and skipping stitches, working into chain spaces, and changing colors.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
Width: 14.5”/37cm
Length: 16”/40.5cm
Straps: 22”/56cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These patterns files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically. Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
Read about the inspo behind the previous four years' towels here:
2018: Alsace and Marseille Tea Towels
2019: Barrow and Waverly Hand Towels
2020: Brimfield and Berkshire Dishcloths
2021: Bistro and Mercantile Kitchen Cloths
2022: Cottage and Cabin Cloths
2023: Eagle Rock and Silver Lake Towels
As per tradition, these patterns will be available for free here on the blog for three days from 4/22/26 through 4/24/26. Starting on 4/25/26, they will only be available for purchase as printer-friendly, ad-free PDFs as part of my "Purposeful Patterns" initiative.
And now, without further ado …
Please enjoy the following patterns !
The Elm Street Dishcloth
With a stitch repeat inspired by historic brick townhouses, the texture of the Elm Street Dishcloth provides visual interest and meditative stitching. The simple but alluring fabric is a classic look that will suit any kitchen and remain timeless for generations.
Purchase the printer-friendly, ad-free PDF here.
Skill Level: Easy (level 2)
Materials:
2 skeins Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in Ecru
(worsted, weight 4; 186yds/170m per skein)
Size H/8 (5mm) crochet hook
Tapestry needle
Gauge: 18 sts x 16 rows = 4”/10cm in pattern
Dimensions:
Width: 13”/33cm
Length: 18”/46cm
Abbreviations:
*All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms
Ch – Chain
Eddc – Extended drop double crochet
Rep – Repeat
RS – Right side
Sc – Single crochet
St(s) – Stitch(es)
Yo sl st tbl – Yarn over slip stitch through the back loop only
Stitch Explanation:
Extended drop double crochet (eddc) – yarn over, insert hook from the bottom up into the front 2 loops of the next stitch 3 rows below, yarn over and draw up a loop (3 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through 1 loop on hook (3 loops on hook), yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook (2 loops on hook), yarn over and draw through remaining 2 loops on hook. Make sure to skip the stitch behind the eddc before working the following stitch.
Yarn over slip stitch through the back loop (yo sl st tbl) – yarn over, insert hook into the back loop only of the stitch, yarn over and draw up a loop, then draw that loop through the remaining 2 loops on hook.
NOTES: Towel is worked flat from the bottom up in back and forth rows - turn at the end of each row.
Ch 60.
Row 1 (RS): Starting in 2nd ch from hook and working in back bumps of each ch, sc across row. (59 sts)
Rows 2-4: Ch 1, yo sl st tbl across.
Row 5 (RS): Ch 1, *yo sl st tbl 5, eddc, rep from * to last 5 sts, yo sl st tbl to end of row.
Rows 6-8: Ch 1, yo sl st tbl across.
Row 9: Ch 1, yo sl st tbl 2, eddc, *yo sl st tbl 5, eddc, rep from * to last 2 sts, yo sl st tbl to end of row.
Rep rows 2-9 until work measures 18”/46cm.
Next row: Ch 1, yo sl st tbl across.
Next row: Ch 1, sc across.
Do not fasten off.
HOOK LOOP
Ch tightly for approx. 3”/7.5cm. Cut the yarn and draw the tail through the final loop/chain. Thread tail onto tapestry needle, and secure to base of chains to form a loop at the corner of the towel.
Secure and weave in all ends.
The Vine Street Dishcloth
With a stitch repeat inspired by historic brick townhouses, the texture of the Vine Street Dishcloth provides visual interest and meditative stitching. The simple but alluring fabric is a classic look that will suit any kitchen and remain timeless for generations.
Purchase the printer-friendly, ad-free PDF here
Skill Level: Easy (level 2)
Materials:
2 skeins Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in Café au Lait
(worsted, weight 4; 186yds/170m per skein)
Size US 6 (4mm) knitting needles
Tapestry needle
Gauge: 21 sts x 34 rows = 4”/10cm in pattern
Dimensions:
Width: 13”/33cm
Length: 18”/46cm
Abbreviations:
*All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms
CO – Cast on
DwK – Double wrap knit
K – Knit
Kw – Knitwise
P – Purl
Pw – Purlwise
Rep – Repeat
RS – Right side
Sl – Slip
St(s) – Stitch(es)
WS – Wrong side
Wyib – With yarn in back
Wyif – With yarn in front
Stitch Explanation:
Double wrap knit (dwK) – insert the right needle into the stitch as if to knit, then wrap the yarn around the needle twice before completing the knit stitch. This will result in two loops on the right needle coming out of the stitch below, one of which is attached and one that is not, similarly to a yarn over.
NOTES: Towel is worked flat. Each double wrap knit stitch increases the stitch count by one, which is then decreased back to the original stitch count on the following row.
CO 69 sts.
Row 1 (RS): K 4, *dwK 1, K 3, rep from * to last st, K 1.
Row 2 (WS): P 4, *Sl 1 pw wyif letting the 2nd loop drop, P 3, rep from * to last st, P 1.
Row 3: K 4, *Sl 1 pw wyib, K 3, rep from * to last st, K 1.
Row 4: K 4, *Sl 1 pw wyif, K 3, rep from * to last st, K 1.
Row 5: K 2, *dwK, K 3, rep from * to last 3 sts, dwK 1, K 2.
Row 6: P 2, *Sl 1 pw wyif letting the 2nd loop drop, P 3, rep from * to last 3 sts, Sl 1 pw wyif letting the 2nd loop drop, P 2.
Row 7: K 2, *Sl 1 pw wyib, K 3, rep from * to last 3 sts, Sl 1 pw wyib, K 2.
Row 8: K 2, *Sl 1 pw wyif, K 3, rep from * to last 3 sts, Sl 1 pw wyif, K 2.
Rep rows 1-8 until work measures 18”/46cm.
Bind off. Do not cut yarn, and do not pull through last st of work.
Finger chain for approx. 3”/7.5cm. To do so, hold the working yarn in your left hand and use the thumb and middle finger of your right hand to reach through the loop of the last stitch, grab the working yarn, pull a loop through the last stitch and pull it taut. Then reach through that loop, grab the working yarn, pull through another loop and pull it taut. Continue in this manner until the chains measure 3”/7.5cm.
Cut the yarn and draw the tail through the final loop/chain. Thread tail onto tapestry needle, and secure to base of chains to form a loop at the corner of the towel.
Secure and weave in all ends.
Don't forget to share your projects made using Two of Wands patterns on Instagram with the hashtag #crewofwands so your post will get featured on my site and you'll be in the running for monthly pattern giveaways!
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
The patterns and photographs of items on this site are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These patterns files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically. Small batch sales of finished pieces made from these patterns are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
