How to crochet a square coaster? - Tutorial

Creating a square crochet coaster is a simple and fun project that can be completed by beginners and advanced crocheters alike. Below is a basic pattern to get you started. You can customize it with different yarn colors and patterns once you're comfortable with the basics.

Materials Needed:

• Worsted weight cotton yarn (any color)
• Crochet hook (size H/5.0 mm recommended)
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Basic Square Coaster Pattern:
Abbreviations:

• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• sl st: slip stitch

Instructions:

1. Foundation Chain:
   • Ch 16. (This will create a coaster about 4 inches square. You can adjust the number of chains to make a larger or smaller coaster.)
2. Row 1:
   • Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. (15 sc)
   • Ch 1, turn.
3. Rows 2-15:
   • Sc in each stitch across. (15 sc)
   • Ch 1, turn.
4. Border:
   • Once you've completed the last row, do not fasten off.
   • Ch 1, turn.
   • Sc evenly around all four sides of the coaster, placing 3 sc in each corner to keep the edges from curling.
   • Join with a sl st to the first sc of the border.
5. Finishing:
   • Fasten off and weave in any loose ends using a yarn needle.

Optional Variations:

• Color Changes: For a striped coaster, change colors at the end of any row.
• Textured Stitch: Instead of using sc, try using half double crochet (hdc) or double crochet (dc) for a different texture.
• Edging: Add a decorative edge by using picot stitch, crab stitch, or shell stitch for the border.

Tips:

• Using cotton yarn is recommended for coasters because it absorbs moisture well and is easy to wash.
• Ensure your stitches are tight enough to create a dense fabric, which will help the coaster be more absorbent and durable.

Example Pattern with Color Change:

1. Foundation Chain:
   • Ch 16.
2. Row 1:
   • Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. (15 sc)
   • Ch 1, turn.
3. Rows 2-5:
   • Sc in each stitch across. (15 sc)
   • At the end of Row 5, change to a new color.
   • Ch 1, turn.
4. Rows 6-10:
   • Sc in each stitch across with the new color. (15 sc)
   • At the end of Row 10, change back to the original color.
   • Ch 1, turn.
5. Rows 11-15:
   • Sc in each stitch across. (15 sc)
   • Ch 1, turn.
6. Border:
   • Sc evenly around all four sides of the coaster, placing 3 sc in each corner.
   • Join with a sl st to the first sc of the border.
7. Finishing:
   • Fasten off and weave in any loose ends.

Feel free to experiment with different stitches, colors, and borders to make your coasters unique!