The Brick by Brick Crochet Bonding Square and Washcloth is a versatile, unisex crochet pattern designed for both charity and everyday use.

Created for the Preemie Crochet Challenge 2025, this pattern includes two sizes:
Bonding Square (approx. 5”)
Washcloth (approx. 7”)

You will receive 2 downloads - one in US terms and one in UK terms.

Why crocheters love it:

• Easy, beginner-friendly design with simple stitches.
• Symbolic “Brick by Brick” texture—perfect for projects filled with meaning.
• Small, quick makes—perfect for stash-busting and gift sets.
• Unisex design suitable for all ages.

About bonding squares: These 5” squares are donated to NICUs so preemies can hold one infused with their parent’s scent. Parents keep the other, and the pair are swapped daily to strengthen the parent-baby bond. After their use in the NICU, bonding squares can be tucked into memory boxes or repurposed as small face scrubbies.
My blog post includes a link to free printable gift tags to attach to your bonding square donations.

The washcloth size expands the pattern’s usefulness. At approx. 7”, these crochet washcloths are soft, durable, and practical—ideal for babies, children, adults, or the elderly.

Yarn recommendations: Cotton yarns are best, such as Paintbox Simply Cotton, or Knit Picks Dishie.
Cotton is soft, reduces allergies, and withstands high-temperature washing, making it safe for sensitive skin and NICU donations.

Yarn requirements: 40–65 yards, depending on size.

Whether you’re joining the Preemie Crochet Challenge or making gifts for loved ones, this pattern is a quick, meaningful, and rewarding project.