Create Stunning Crochet Coasters with this Simple Tutorial

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Supplies Needed
3. How to Make a Magic Circle
4. Round 1: Double Crochet
5. Round 2: Front Post Double Crochet
6. Round 3: Double Crochet and Front Post Double Crochet
7. Round 4: Double Crochet and Front Post Double Crochet
8. Finishing Touches: Adding Fringe
9. Trimming and Finalizing the Coaster
10. Conclusion

Introduction

Crocheting is a popular craft that allows you to create beautiful and functional items using just a hook and yarn. In this tutorial, I'll be showing you how to crochet the "Hello Sunshine" coaster. This quick and easy pattern is perfect for spring, with its simple circle shape and textured stitches that mimic the sun's rays. We'll also be adding some fringe around the border for extra fun. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this project is perfect for practicing different stitches and creating a cute and functional coaster.

Supplies Needed

Before we get started, let's gather all the supplies we'll need for this project. Here's a list of items you'll need:

• Medium 4 weight cotton yarn (approximately 24 yards per coaster)
• 5 millimeter (or H) crochet hook
• Scissors
• Yarn needle
• Tape measure
• Comb

Having these supplies on hand will ensure a smooth and enjoyable crocheting experience. Now that you're ready, let's dive into the first step!

How to Make a Magic Circle

To begin crocheting the "Hello Sunshine" coaster, we'll start by making a magic circle. This technique allows us to create a tight and secure center for our coaster. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a magic circle:

1. Take the tail end of your yarn and wrap it around your pointer finger and middle finger.
2. Cross the yarn over when bringing it around a second time.
3. Insert your crochet hook under the first strand and grab the second strand.
4. Pull the second strand under and remove your fingers.
5. Secure the magic circle with a chain two.

Once you've created the magic circle, we can move on to the next step – crocheting the first round.

Round 1: Double Crochet

In round 1, we'll be working inside the magic circle. We'll be using the double crochet stitch to create the base of our coaster. Follow these steps:

1. Yarn over and insert your hook through the magic circle.
2. Pull up a loop.
3. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through the last two loops on your hook.

Continue these steps to work a total of 10 double crochets inside the magic circle. Once you have completed all the stitches, pull the short tail end of your yarn tight to close up the hole. Then, join to the top of the first double crochet with a slip stitch. Chain two, which will not count as a stitch, and we can now move on to round 2.

Round 2: Front Post Double Crochet

In round 2, we'll add some texture to our coaster by incorporating the front post double crochet stitch. This stitch is similar to the double crochet, but worked around the post of the stitch instead of the top. Let's see how:

1. Double crochet into the first stitch.
2. Yarn over and insert your hook beside the post of the stitch, working from front to back and then bringing it back to the front.
3. Yarn over, pull up a loop, and complete the double crochet as usual.

Repeat these two stitches – double crochet and front post double crochet – in each stitch around. This will create an increase for each stitch, resulting in a total stitch count of 20. Join to the top of the first double crochet with a slip stitch, chain two, and let's move on to round 3.

Round 3: Double Crochet and Front Post Double Crochet

In round 3, we'll continue working with the double crochet and front post double crochet stitches. Here's how to proceed:

1. Double crochet into the first stitch.
2. Double crochet into the next stitch.
3. Front post double crochet around that same stitch.

Continue this pattern of double crochet and front post double crochet in each stitch around. This creates a consistent texture and adds to the overall design of the coaster. At the end of round 3, our stitch count will reach 30. Join to the top of the first double crochet with a slip stitch, chain two, and let's move on to round 4.

Round 4: Double Crochet and Front Post Double Crochet

For round 4, we'll repeat the pattern of double crochet and front post double crochet stitches. Follow these steps:

1. Double crochet into the first two stitches.
2. Double crochet into the next stitch.
3. Front post double crochet around that same stitch.

Repeat the pattern of double crochet and front post double crochet in each stitch around, just like we did in round 3. This will give the coaster a cohesive look and continue the textured design. At the end of round 4, our stitch count will be 40. Join to the top of the first double crochet with a slip stitch, and we're almost done!

Finishing Touches: Adding Fringe

To add a fun and decorative element to our coaster, we'll be adding fringe around the border. Here's how to attach the fringe:

1. Flip your coaster over so that the wrong side is facing you and the right side is facing down.
2. Insert your crochet hook between two stitches, in the space between them.
3. Grab a piece of fringe (approximately 3.5 inches long) and fold it in half.
4. Take the looped end of the fringe and pull it through the space between the stitches.
5. Remove your hook and pull the two ends of the fringe through the loop, keeping them even.
6. Repeat this process, attaching one piece of fringe between each pair of stitches all the way around the coaster.

Once all the fringe is attached, gently comb through it with a comb to separate the strands and create a fuller look. Be careful not to pull too hard or fray the fringe. With the fringe in place, our coaster is almost complete.

Trimming and Finalizing the Coaster

To give our coaster a polished and finished appearance, we'll need to trim the fringe to make it even. Follow these steps:

1. Take a pair of scissors and trim the fringe, starting with small cuts.
2. Gradually trim around the entire perimeter of the coaster, ensuring that each fringe piece is the desired length.

Take your time when trimming to achieve an even and balanced look. It's better to trim a little at a time to avoid cutting off too much. Once you're satisfied with the length of the fringe, your "Hello Sunshine" coaster is complete!

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing your very own crochet "Hello Sunshine" coaster! This pattern is perfect for adding a touch of spring and summer to your home decor or as handmade gifts for friends and family. The combination of the simple circle shape, textured stitches, and fringe detail makes for a charming and functional coaster. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this project is both enjoyable and rewarding. Get creative with different yarn colors and experiment with making a set of coasters to match your personal style. Happy crocheting!

Highlights

• Crochet a "Hello Sunshine" coaster using a simple circle shape and textured stitches.
• Use medium 4 weight cotton yarn for durability and absorbency.
• Begin with a magic circle to create a secure center for the coaster.
• Work rounds of double crochet and front post double crochet stitches for a textured design.
• Add fringe around the border for a decorative touch.
• Trim the fringe to achieve an even and polished look.
• Personalize your coaster by choosing different yarn colors and making a set.
• Perfect for spring and summer home decor or as handmade gifts.
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced crocheters.
• Enjoy the process of creating a functional and adorable coaster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a different type of yarn for this coaster? A: While the pattern recommends medium 4 weight cotton yarn, you can certainly experiment with different types of yarn. It's best to choose a yarn that is slightly stringy, like the recommended crafters secret cotton or lily sugar and cream yarn. Softer cotton yarns, like "I Love This Cotton," may not hold up as well when brushed out for fringe.

Q: How do I brush out the fringe without damaging the yarn? A: When brushing out the fringe, it's important to be gentle to avoid damaging the yarn. Use a comb and lightly comb through each piece of fringe, separating the strands. Take care not to pull too hard or fray the yarn. Gently working through the fringe will give it a fuller and more textured appearance.

Q: Can I make the coaster larger or smaller? A: The pattern provides instructions for creating a coaster with a diameter of approximately 4.5 inches. If you'd like to make your coaster larger, you can continue increasing the number of stitches in each round. However, keep in mind that this may require more yarn. If you'd like a smaller coaster, you can stop increasing the stitch count sooner.

Q: Can I make this pattern without the fringe? A: Absolutely! The fringe adds a fun and decorative element to the coaster, but if you prefer a simpler look, you can choose to omit the fringe. Simply weave in the ends of your yarn and leave the coaster as a circle shape.

Q: How many coasters can I make with one skein of yarn? A: With approximately 24 yards of yarn per coaster, you should be able to make four to five coasters from one skein of medium 4 weight cotton yarn. This may vary depending on the size of your coasters and how many rounds you choose to crochet.

Q: Can I sell the coasters I make from this pattern? A: Yes, you are welcome to sell the coasters you make from this pattern. However, please respect copyright laws and give credit to the original pattern designer (Ally from The Turtle Trunk). It's always a good idea to create your own unique product description and take high-quality photos to showcase your handmade coasters.