Knitting

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DIY Nylon Net Scrubbing Pads – A Handy Kitchen Essential

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If you’ve ever stood at the sink scrubbing away at stubborn pots and pans, you know how quickly a good dish scrubber becomes your best friend. That’s why I was intrigued when I came across the DIY Nylon Net Scrubbing Pads project on CraftBits. These little scrubbies are as practical as they are thrifty, and after trying them myself, I can see why they’ve been a favorite among crafters for decades.

Why These Scrubbing Pads Work So Well

The beauty of nylon net scrubbies lies in their texture. Unlike store-bought sponges that wear down in a week or two, nylon net holds its grit. It’s tough enough to tackle baked-on casserole dishes yet gentle enough not to scratch delicate non-stick pans. Plus, they dry quickly—so you don’t end up with that unpleasant soggy-sponge smell hanging around your sink.

Another bonus? You can wash and reuse them. Just toss them in the dishwasher or washing machine and they’re ready for round two.

Simple Crafting, Big Results

This is one of those projects that makes you think, “Why haven’t I been doing this all along?” All you need is a bit of nylon netting, a pair of scissors, and a few minutes of your time. The method is straightforward—cut, fold, and stitch—and you’ll have a fresh scrubber in less time than it takes to make a cup of tea.

For those of us who like to keep busy hands while watching TV or chatting on the phone, this is the perfect little side project. You can whip up a batch in an evening and have enough scrubbies to last months.

With rising costs everywhere, I love that these pads are not only inexpensive to make but also reduce kitchen waste. No more throwing away sponge after sponge. Nylon net scrubbies last, and when one finally does wear out, you’ve still only spent pennies compared to the store-bought versions.

Here’s a fun idea: make up a bundle of these scrubbies, tie them with a ribbon, and tuck them into a homemade kitchen gift basket. Pair with a tea towel or some handmade soap, and you’ve got a thoughtful, practical gift that feels both personal and useful.

If you’re looking for a small, satisfying craft that pays off big in everyday use, these DIY Nylon Net Scrubbing Pads are a must-try. They’re practical, durable, and eco-conscious—a triple win in my book.

You can find the full tutorial over at CraftBits: DIY Nylon Net Scrubbing Pads.

 

Have you read?

Book Review: Best Dressed Crab and Friends – Knitted Sea Creatures With an Ocean of Outfits

I knew I was going to like this book the moment I saw a crab wearing a puffer vest.

Best Dressed Crab and Friends by Karla Courtney is one of those knitting books that’s completely unnecessary in the very best possible way. Do we need knitted sea creatures with entire wardrobes? Probably not. Do I now want a lobster in a sweater sitting on my craft-room shelf? Absolutely.

The book includes patterns for six knitted sea creatures, including a crab, turtle, lobster and puffin, along with an impressive 44 little garments and accessories.

And the outfits are where this book really becomes fun.

There’s a crab with a bum bag and puffer vest, a puffin in a varsity jacket and a turtle with interchangeable shells. You can knit pumpkin, strawberry, peppermint, gingerbread and Christmas tree shell designs, so apparently even turtles need seasonal wardrobes now.

There is also an oversized turtle shell with a hidden pocket for a hot water bottle, which is both slightly bonkers and rather brilliant.

Plenty of Room to Make Them Your Own

Looking through the preview pages, I particularly like the little colourwork sweater charts. You can follow the designs provided or start mixing colours and motifs to create completely different outfits.

The patterns are supported by a techniques section, photos and charts, so although the finished creatures look quite detailed, the instructions are designed to be approachable.

If knitted animals with wardrobes are already your thing, have a look at our review of Knitted Wild Animal Friends, which includes 12 knitted animals and their clothes.

We’ve also previously reviewed Knitted Animal Friends, another lovely choice if your yarn stash is slowly turning into a miniature knitted zoo.

More Than Just Cute Knitting Patterns

One nice extra is that Best Dressed Crab and Friends also includes marine facts from scientists and fishermen, including lobsterman Jacob Knowles.

Author Karla Courtney is already known online for her wonderfully quirky knitted sea creatures, with her videos clocking up millions of views, so turning them into a full pattern collection feels like a very natural next step.

What I like most about this book is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously. These are the sorts of knitting projects that make people smile.

They’re fun to make, fun to photograph and would make very memorable handmade gifts.

Would I Buy It?

Yes.

Especially for the knitter who already owns plenty of sensible knitting books and needs something a little more playful.

It’s a great pick for anyone who enjoys knitted toys, colourwork, novelty knitting or making ridiculously tiny clothes.

And really, if you’ve ever wanted to knit a fashionable crab, this may finally be your moment.

Best Dressed Crab and Friends: Knitted Sea Creatures with an Ocean of Outfits is published by GMC Publications and is due for release on September 8, 2026.