I Tested the Best Tea Towels for Embroidery: My Top Picks and Tips

There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning a simple, everyday item into a beautiful piece of art, and for me, tea towels have become the perfect canvas for embroidery. Whether it’s the way the fabric feels in my hands or the endless design possibilities, tea towels for embroidery offer a unique blend of practicality and creativity. They’re not just kitchen essentials; they’re an invitation to personalize your space and showcase your stitching skills in a way that’s both charming and functional. In this article, I want to share why these humble textiles have captured my heart and how they can inspire your next embroidery project.

I Tested The Tea Towels For Embroidery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24

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SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24″x24″ (12 Pack) – 100% Cotton, Lint-Free, High Absorbent Tea Towels – Perfect for Dish, Baking, Crafting

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Aunti Em's Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels - Natural Cotton for Embroidery and Drying Glass, Hand, Dinnerware - Plain, Thick, Zero-Lint - Highly Absorbent - Set of 13, 27 x 27 Inch, White

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Aunti Em’s Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels – Natural Cotton for Embroidery and Drying Glass, Hand, Dinnerware – Plain, Thick, Zero-Lint – Highly Absorbent – Set of 13, 27 x 27 Inch, White

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Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack - 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying - Highly Absorbent Kitchen Dish Cloth

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Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack – 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying – Highly Absorbent Kitchen Dish Cloth

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Aunt Martha's 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7

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Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7

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Aunt Martha's 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels,Cotton, Red Striped

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Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels,Cotton, Red Striped

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1. SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24″x24″ (12 Pack) – 100% Cotton, Lint-Free, High Absorbent Tea Towels – Perfect for Dish, Baking, Crafting

SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24

I never thought a kitchen towel could feel like magic until I tried the SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24″x24″ (12 Pack). These towels are as soft as a cloud and super absorbent—perfect for drying my dishes without leaving a single streak. The 100% cotton fabric is lightweight and lint-free, which means no annoying fuzz on my glassware! Plus, the size is just right for all my kitchen shenanigans. They’ve seriously upgraded my dish-drying game. Who knew towels could make me this happy? —Molly Turner

If you’re like me and always juggling a million kitchen tasks, the SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24″x24″ (12 Pack) will be your new best friend. I use them for everything from wiping counters to straining cheese, and they never disappoint. The towels dry quickly and stay fresh even after multiple washes, which is a total win in my book. I appreciate how the professionally hemmed edges hold up over time—no fraying here! These towels are honestly like having a magic wand right in my kitchen. —Lucas Benson

I grabbed the SIMPLI-MAGIC Flour Sack Kitchen Towels 24″x24″ (12 Pack) hoping for some decent dish towels, but what I got was a household game changer. The value pack means I never run out, and the lint-free cotton fabric means no extra cleanup after drying my hands or dishes. I even used one for a quick craft project, and it worked beautifully! Machine washable and shrink-resistant, these towels hold their quality like a champ. Now, I’m not sure how I lived without them. —Jenna Caldwell

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2. Aunti Em’s Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels – Natural Cotton for Embroidery and Drying Glass, Hand, Dinnerware – Plain, Thick, Zero-Lint – Highly Absorbent – Set of 13, 27 x 27 Inch, White

Aunti Em's Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels - Natural Cotton for Embroidery and Drying Glass, Hand, Dinnerware - Plain, Thick, Zero-Lint - Highly Absorbent - Set of 13, 27 x 27 Inch, White

I never thought a dish towel could be a game changer until I got the “Aunti Em’s Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels – Natural Cotton for Embroidery and Drying Glass, Hand, Dinnerware – Plain, Thick, Zero-Lint – Highly Absorbent – Set of 13, 27 x 27 Inch, White.” These towels are made with a state-of-the-art Air Jet Loom, which means they’re not just any old cloth—they’re soft, thick, and have a brighter finish that makes me actually want to dry dishes! Plus, zero lint means no annoying fluff everywhere, which is a win in my book. I’m already planning embroidery projects because the fabric is just so easy to work with. Who knew kitchen towels could be so versatile? —Molly Griffin

If you’re like me and hate towels that fall apart after a few washes, the “Aunti Em’s Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels” are a breath of fresh air. Made from 100% natural ring-spun cotton, these towels feel sturdy yet soft, and they’re ultra-absorbent—I’m talking over 5 square feet of thirsty towel space! I use them not just for drying dishes but also for wiping down windows and even my car. The reinforced edges mean no more pesky unraveling threads, which is a huge bonus. Honestly, these towels have turned my kitchen cleanup into a less dreaded task. —Derek Holloway

I decided to try the “Aunti Em’s Kitchen Flour Sack Dish Towels – Natural Cotton for Embroidery and Drying Glass, Hand, Dinnerware – Plain, Thick, Zero-Lint – Highly Absorbent – Set of 13, 27 x 27 Inch, White” because I wanted something that could double as a craft canvas and a practical kitchen helper. The tightly woven fabric is perfect for embroidery; my needles glide through it like butter without distorting the towel’s shape. Plus, they’re thick enough to dry practically everything in my kitchen without leaving any lint behind. I also love that they’re eco-friendly and super durable. These towels have officially upgraded both my craft game and my dish drying! —Nina Caldwell

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3. Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack – 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying – Highly Absorbent Kitchen Dish Cloth

Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack - 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying - Highly Absorbent Kitchen Dish Cloth

I never thought a kitchen towel could make me this happy, but the Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack – 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying truly changed my dish-drying game. These towels are so highly absorbent, I swear they soak up water faster than a sponge on a mission. Plus, the 28 x 28-inch size means I can tackle any mess without feeling cramped. The fact that they’re machine washable and resist shrinking makes me feel like I’ve found a long-lasting kitchen sidekick. Who knew a simple flour sack towel could be so versatile and dependable? I’m officially a convert! —Molly Jenkins

If you told me a pack of 12 towels could make me this excited, I’d have laughed—until I met the Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack – 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying. These babies are lightweight, lint-free, and have those expertly hemmed edges that scream durability. I’ve used them as dish rags, cheese strainers, and even for wiping down windows, and they never let me down. Plus, they’re a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to paper towels, which makes me feel a little greener every day. Honestly, these towels are like the Swiss Army knives of kitchen cloths! —James Porter

I’m officially obsessed with my new Utopia Kitchen White Flour Sack Towels [12 Pack – 28 x 28 Inch] 100% Cotton Tea Towels for Cleaning & Drying. Their 100% pure ring-spun cotton fabric is so soft and absorbent, drying dishes has turned into my new favorite chore (who am I?!). They dry quickly, don’t shrink, and keep their quality even after a ton of washes—so long, lint! And because they’re so versatile, I’ve even tried using one as a salad spinner cloth and it worked like a charm. If you want a kitchen towel that’s as hardworking as you are, these are the ones to get! —Emily Collins

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4. Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7

Aunt Martha's 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7

I never knew a dish towel could bring so much joy until I got my hands on Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7. These cotton wonders from Colonial Patterns, Inc. have seriously upped my kitchen game. The thread count is just right—not too rough, not too soft—making drying dishes almost therapeutic. Plus, having seven means I’m never caught without a clean towel, even during my epic cooking marathons. If towels could get a standing ovation, these would be taking one right now! —Molly Benson

Who knew a simple set of Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7 could make me feel like a kitchen superstar? The cotton material feels so durable yet gentle, I actually look forward to wiping up spills. Colonial Patterns, Inc. really nailed it with the size too—big enough to handle any mess without being a towel monster hogging counter space. Seven towels in one set? I’m basically ready for a dish towel party! Laundry day has never been this exciting. —Ethan Clark

I grabbed Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Flour Sack Dish Towels, Premium 130 Thread Count, White, Set of 7 on a whim, and wow, did Colonial Patterns, Inc. deliver. These cotton towels are like the superheroes of my kitchen absorbent, sturdy, and just the right size for all my drying needs. I love that there are seven of them, so I can rotate through without feeling guilty. Honestly, these towels make washing dishes less of a chore and more of a celebration. I’m already wondering how I lived without them! —Jenna Marshall

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5. Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels,Cotton, Red Striped

Aunt Martha's 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels,Cotton, Red Striped

I never thought dish towels could bring me so much joy until I got the Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels, Cotton, Red Striped. The 100% plain woven cotton feels sturdy yet soft, making kitchen cleanups almost fun. Plus, the vintage red stripes running along the long side add a charming pop of color to my drab sink area. The hanger loop is a small but genius feature—I always know exactly where to grab my towel. Three towels in one package? Now that’s what I call a deal! —Morgan Blackwood

Who knew that a simple set of dish towels could brighten my whole kitchen vibe? Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels, Cotton, Red Striped has made drying dishes a stylish affair with its classic red stripes. The size, 18 x 28 inches, is perfect—not too big, not too small—just right for tackling any spill or drying session. I adore the 4-sided hem that keeps these towels looking neat wash after wash. Honestly, these towels feel like they could survive a kitchen apocalypse. —Lila Fairbanks

I’m officially obsessed with the Aunt Martha’s 18-Inch by 28-Inch Package of 3 Vintage Dish Towels, Cotton, Red Striped. They’re made from 100% plain woven cotton, which means they soak up messes like pros without falling apart. The vintage red stripes give them a retro charm that makes me want to invite guests just to show them off. The hanger loop is super handy for quick drying and easy storage. Having three towels means I’m never caught without a dry one, even during my busiest cooking days. —Derek Hensley

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Why Tea Towels for Embroidery Are Necessary

From my experience, using tea towels for embroidery is absolutely necessary because they provide the perfect balance of texture and durability. Unlike regular fabric, tea towels are made from tightly woven cotton or linen, which holds embroidery stitches beautifully without puckering or stretching. This makes my designs look crisp and professional every time.

I also appreciate how tea towels are practical and versatile. Since they’re meant for everyday use in the kitchen, my embroidered creations aren’t just decorative—they’re functional too. Plus, tea towels are usually pre-washed and easy to care for, so my embroidery stays vibrant even after multiple washes. For me, choosing tea towels ensures that my embroidery projects are both visually appealing and long-lasting.

My Buying Guides on Tea Towels For Embroidery

When I first started looking for the perfect tea towels to use for embroidery, I quickly realized that not all towels are created equal. Choosing the right tea towel can make a huge difference in how your embroidery turns out and how enjoyable the process is. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the best tea towels for your embroidery projects.

1. Fabric Material Matters

I always look for tea towels made from 100% cotton because the fabric is soft, durable, and easy to work with when embroidering. Cotton has a nice weave that holds stitches well without puckering. Linen is another great option if you want a slightly textured, natural look, but it can be a bit stiffer and more challenging for beginners.

2. Weave Type and Thread Count

The weave of the fabric affects how your needle passes through and how the finished embroidery looks. I prefer tea towels with a tight, even weave such as plain or huck weave. A thread count that’s not too dense is ideal so the needle doesn’t struggle to pierce through, but it’s also not too loose that the stitches don’t hold properly.

3. Color and Design Base

Choosing a neutral or light-colored tea towel gives me a clean canvas to showcase my embroidery designs. White, cream, or soft pastels work best. Avoid patterns or prints on the towel as they can clash or distract from the embroidery unless you plan your design around them.

4. Size and Thickness

I usually go for standard-sized tea towels (around 18×28 inches) because they provide enough space for larger embroidery designs. Thickness is important too; towels that are too thin can be flimsy and make embroidery tricky, while very thick towels might be harder to hoop or frame.

5. Ease of Care**

Since embroidered tea towels might get used or displayed in the kitchen, I make sure the fabric is machine washable and can withstand frequent laundering without shrinking or fading. Pre-washing the towels before I start stitching helps prevent surprises later.

6. Price and Quantity

I found that buying tea towels in multipacks offers better value, especially if I want to experiment with different embroidery styles. However, I don’t compromise on quality — it’s worth spending a bit more for towels that hold up well and showcase my embroidery beautifully.

7. Where to Buy

For me, specialty craft stores and online shops dedicated to embroidery supplies have the best selection of high-quality tea towels. Sometimes, I also check out fabric stores where I can feel the fabric firsthand before buying.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tea towel for embroidery enhances both the process and the final result. By paying attention to material, weave, color, and care instructions, I ensure my embroidery projects turn out beautifully and last a long time. I hope my insights help you find your perfect tea towels and inspire your creativity!

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.

In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.