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.

 

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Knit a Sweet Blanket with a Pocket for Treasures

When my daughter was in early elementary school we were at Joann together (RIP) and she picked out some variegated pink and white blanket yarn for me to knit a blanket for her bed. Now probably 10 years later, it’s one of her favorite possessions. I note this because the blankets we give to little ones might seem simple on the surface, like something they need to keep warm, but they can turn into so much more. 

Take the Pocketful of Love Blanket from Purl Soho. On the surface this is a pretty but also easy to knit blanket for a little one. It’s worked in garter stitch stripes using sport weight yarn (the sample is a superwash wool, but this would also be nice in cotton or a blend) and available in a crib or small throw size. Though of course because it’s garter stitch, it’s pretty easy to make it any size you want. 

But what makes this blanket extra special is the little details. The slip stitch selvedges and I-cord bind off give it a crisp look that’s perfect with the garter stitch of the body. 

And then there’s the pocket. 

This is a big pocket. At 10 inches wide and 12.25 inches tall (that’s 25.4 by 31 cm) for the crib size and 12.75 by 14.25 inches (32.4 by 36 cm) for the throw, you can easily fit a favorite stuffed animal, toy or book into the pocket. 

I love how even though it uses the same striped garter stitch pattern as the blanket, it’s stitched down so the stripes run the opposite way (horizontal when the blanket stripes are vertical), though of course you can match stripes if you’d rather.

I think this blanket has the potential to be greatly loved by the little one its given to, and by the knitter look for an easy, pretty baby blanket with a little extra useful twist. 

Grab the free pattern from Purl Soho. 

[Photo: Purl Soho]