Jan 2019: Tawashi sponge, free pattern in French [link]. This free English pattern seems similar though [link]
Here I’m using jute twine #20 (20 pound) weight that I got from RONA (I think it’s this one), and Bernat Handicrafter cotton yarns in various colourways.
After making a few and using them, I found that it’s better to use a thicker hook for a looser gauge. This allows the sponge to dry when not in use. I also experimented with adding a hanging cord to help it dry.
I use the green ones on dishes, and the blue one in the shower. I found a good size for my hand to be no less than 10 cm, and no more than 12 cm wide (chain 20 and crochet loosely). Each colour is done in 11 rows.
To make a handle, use a very long tail when fastening off at the very end; thread it through the “top” of your scrubber, back down through the same hole, and tie it off to the centre of the scrubber. Attaching the handle this way makes it less likely to deform your sponge as it hangs.
The jute side is quite rough in the shower: I usually only use it on my elbows, knees, feet. I find the cotton side to be just the right scrubbiness for the rest of my body, including my face and neck.