Learn to Make a Thick Crocheted Hot Pad

Learn to Make a Thick Crocheted Hot Pad

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Getting Started: Making a Slip Knot
4. Chaining the Width of the Hot Pads
5. Starting the Thermal Stitch
6. Continuing the Thermal Stitch
7. Crocheting Rows and Increasing Height
8. Adding the Final Row
9. Knotting Off and Finishing the Hot Pads
10. Customizing Your Hot Pads
11. Conclusion

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to crochet super thick hot pads using the thermal stitch. This beginner-friendly project is perfect for those who are new to crochet or looking for a quick and useful project. We will guide you step-by-step through the process, providing clear instructions and helpful tips along the way. So grab your yarn and crochet hook, and let's get started!

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let's gather all the materials we will need to crochet these hot pads:

1. Cotton or cotton blend yarn: This type of yarn is recommended as it can withstand heat without melting. We suggest using a level 4 weighted yarn, such as Bernat Handicrafter.
2. Crochet hook: We recommend using a Size H (5.0 mm) crochet hook, but you can choose a hook size that matches your yarn package's recommendations.
3. Scissors: You will need a pair of scissors to cut your yarn.
4. Yarn needle: A yarn needle, darning needle, or tapestry needle will be useful for weaving in ends and finishing touches.

Now that we have all our materials ready, let's move on to the next step.

Getting Started: Making a Slip Knot

To begin crocheting the hot pads, we first need to create a slip knot on our crochet hook. If you are already familiar with making a slip knot, feel free to skip ahead. Here's a brief overview of how to make a slip knot:

1. Lay your yarn on the crochet hook, with the tail facing away from you.
2. Bring the yarn over the longer piece of yarn, creating a loop.
3. Insert your hook through that loop and yarn over, pulling the yarn through to create a slip knot.

Remember to leave a little bit of a tail for your slip knot. You can adjust the tightness of the knot according to your preference. Now that we have our slip knot ready, let's move on to the next step.

Chaining the Width of the Hot Pads

The first step in crocheting the hot pads is to chain the desired width. In this tutorial, we will chain about 27 chains, but you can chain any number you want. Here's how to chain:

1. Yarn over (bring the yarn over your hook) and pull through the loop on your hook.
2. Repeat step 1 until you have chained the desired number of stitches.
3. Chain 1 more (this will serve as our turning chain).

Keep in mind that the size of your chains will determine the width of your hot pads. Make your loops just big enough to get your hook through while ensuring that your chains are not too loose or too tight. Once you are satisfied with the width of your hot pads, proceed to the next step.

Starting the Thermal Stitch

Now it's time to start the thermal stitch, which will give our hot pads their thick and cozy texture. We will be using half double crochets for the entire project. Here's how to begin:

1. Start in the second chain from the hook. This means you skip the first chain (the one closest to the hook) and work into the second chain.
2. Yarn over and insert your hook into the second chain. Ensure that you only catch the top loop of the chain on your hook.
3. Yarn over and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook.

Repeat this process for every chain stitch, making sure to work only into the top loop of each chain. This will create a neat and even thermal stitch pattern. Continue crocheting the thermal stitch into each chain stitch until you reach the end of the row.

Continuing the Thermal Stitch

After completing the first row of thermal stitches, it's time to continue the pattern and add more rows. Here's how to do it:

1. Chain 1 at the end of the row to serve as the turning chain.
2. Hold your work so that you can see the tops of the stitches from the previous row, as well as the loops from your foundation chain below.
3. Insert your hook into the center of the first stitch, going into the back strand of the V-shaped stitch. Also, insert your hook into the parallel loop from the foundation chain.
4. Yarn over and pull up a loop through both loops on your hook.
5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook, completing a half double crochet.

Repeat this process for each stitch, working into the center of the V-shaped stitch and the parallel loop from the row below. Pay attention to the loops at the end of each row, ensuring that you work into the correct stitch. Continue repeating this pattern for each row to build the height of your hot pads.

Crocheting Rows and Increasing Height

To create a thick and substantial hot pad, you will need to crochet multiple rows using the thermal stitch pattern. Repeat the previous steps for each new row, chaining 1 at the end and working into the center of each stitch and its parallel loop from the row below.

Remember, you can adjust the height of your hot pad to your preference. You can keep it square and close to the width, or you can crochet it taller for a larger hot pad. Keep repeating the rows until you are satisfied with the height of your hot pads.

Adding the Final Row

Once you have reached the desired height for your hot pads, it's time to add the final row to complete the project. Here's how to do it:

1. Chain 1 and turn your work to the back.
2. Place a half double crochet slip stitch in each stitch across the row.
3. To do this, insert your hook into both strands of the V-shaped stitch, as well as the parallel loop from the row below.
4. Yarn over and pull up a loop through all the loops on your hook.
5. Repeat this process for each stitch until you reach the end of the row.

Pay attention to the last stitch and the parallel loop, ensuring that you work into the correct stitches to maintain a neat and uniform appearance. Once you have completed the final row, it's time to knot off and finish your hot pads.

Knotting Off and Finishing the Hot Pads

To secure your work and prevent it from unraveling, you will need to knot off your hot pads. Here's how to do it:

1. Chain 1 and make a big loop.
2. Push down on the knot to tighten it.
3. Using a yarn needle, weave in the ends to hide them within the stitches of your hot pads.
4. Trim any excess yarn with a pair of scissors.

Make sure to weave in both the starting and ending tails of your yarn for a clean and finished look. Once you have woven in the ends and trimmed the excess yarn, your hot pads are complete and ready to use.

Customizing Your Hot Pads

While the basic pattern for the hot pads is simple, you can easily customize them to add your own personal touch. You can experiment with different colors, yarn types, or stitch variations to create unique and personalized hot pads. Let your creativity shine and have fun with it!

Conclusion

Crocheting these super thick hot pads using the thermal stitch is a practical and enjoyable project for beginners and experienced crocheters alike. The thick and cozy texture of the thermal stitch makes these hot pads perfect for handling hot dishes and pots. With just a few simple steps, you can create functional and beautiful hot pads that will add a touch of handmade charm to your kitchen.

So gather your materials, follow the instructions, and enjoy the process of crocheting your own hot pads. Don't forget to share your creations and leave any questions or comments in the comment section below. Happy crocheting!