This pattern is for the toppers only. The bottoms are a simple k3, p2 rib.
These start out in a k5, p2 rib pattern which diminishes as the pattern goes on. I also did 2 buttonholes with a wider strap than most patterns use.
Unfortunately, I did the first ones in black, so it is hard to see the rib. I'll try to get some pictures of lighter ones up when I get them done.
These are done in regular, worsted - weight cotton, although you could use any weight and type of yarn (I would highly suggest sticking to cotton though).
I used 61 stitches, but as long as the number you cast on is divisible by 7 + 5 it will work.
To start, use a darning needle to create stitches down the middle of the towel. I found the instructions here to be helpful with this.
Rows from there:
1: Pick up all stitches
2: p5 *k2, p5, repeat from * to end of round
3: k5 *p2, k5, repeat from * to end of round
4: and all following even rows - knit all knit stitches and purl all purled stitches
5: repeat row 3
7: repeat row 3
9: k2, k2tog,k1, *p2, k2, k2tog, k1, repeat from * to end of round
11: k4 *p2, k4, repeat from * to end of round
13: k1, k2tog,k1, *p2, k1, k2tog, k1, repeat from * to end of round
15: k3 *p2, k3, repeat from * to end of round
17: k2tog, k1, *p2, k2tog, k1, repeat from * to end of round
19: k2, *p2tog, k2, repeat from * to end of round
21: k2tog, *p1, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round
23-46: k1,p1 rib
47: k1, p1, k1, p1, cast off 2, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, cast off 2, k1, p1, k1
48: p1, k1, p1, k1, cast on 2, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, cast on 2, k1, p1, k1, p1
49-50: k1, p1 rib
51: k2tog across
52: k2tog beg & end of row
53: k2tog across
54: cast off remaining stitches
Weave in ends and sew on buttons.
