Are you new to crocheting and looking for a delightful, easy project to kickstart your crafting journey? Look no further! We have the perfect beginner-friendly project for you: crocheting a simple coaster using half-double crochets. This is an excellent first project for those just getting their feet wet in crocheting in the round, and it's also a fantastic way to add a touch of handmade charm to your home decor.
Our step-by-step guide in this blog post will walk you through creating adorable, personalized coasters. They are great to use leftover yarn from other projects, turning those odds and ends into something beautiful and practical. So grab your crochet hook and yarn to match, and let's get into the thicket of making a fast and rewarding coaster project.
Materials Needed for a Crochet Coaster
First, pick a single crochet hook in the size recommended for your yarn. In this blog post, learn everything you need to know about choosing the best crochet hook for your projects and the yarn to match.
For newbie crocheters, hooks with a slight grip on their surface, such as lightweight bamboo hooks, are recommended since they are less slippery. Optionally take a look at our Basix line of single ended crochet hooks; they are an all-time favourite among crocheters of all skill levels.
Additionally, you’ll require:
- Yarn in desired colors, Cotton, bamboo, or linen yarn is a good choice for coasters, as the natural fibers can soak spilled moisture and are machine-washable.
- Scissors suitable for cutting yarn
- Yarn needle (for weaving in the ends)
Step 1: Start with a Magic Circle
Crocheting a magic ring (also known as a magic circle or adjustable ring) is a fundamental technique in crochet, especially useful when making projects in the round, like hats or amigurumi. It allows you to start with a tightly closed center, eliminating the centre hole that can occur when starting with a chain loop.
- Lay the yarn across your non-dominant hand's fingers, leaving a few inches tail hanging down towards your palm.
- Hold the yarn in place with your thumb.
- With your dominant hand, wrap the yarn from the ball around your non-dominant hand's fingers, making an X on top of your fingers.
- Wrap it back towards your palm, crossing over the tail.
- Hold the intersection of the yarn with your thumb to keep it secure.
- Insert your crochet hook under the first strand (closest to your palm) and over the second strand.
- Hook the second strand and pull it under the first strand. You now have a loop on your hook.
The magic ring in single-ended crochet might take a little practice to master, but it's an invaluable technique in crochet that leads to neater, more professional-looking projects. Once you get the hang of it, you'll find it a go-to start for many of your crochet projects in the round!
Step 2: Your first round
- Using your crochet hook, chain 2 (this counts as your first half double crochet).
- Work 11 half double crochets into the ring (for a total of 12, including the initial chain 2).
- Pull the ring closed.
- Join with a slip stitch to the top of the initial chain 2.
Step 3: Round 2
- Chain 2 (counts as the first half double crochet).
- Make 2 half double crochets in each stitch around (for a total of 24 stitches).
- Join with a slip stitch to the top of the initial chain 2. Navigate to this article to learn how to create a half-double crochet. (half-treble in UK crochet terms)
Step 4: Round 3 and beyond
- Continue increasing each round. In each round, add one more half double crochet between the increases. For instance, in Round 3, you'll do 1 half double crochet in the next stitch, then 2 half double crochets in the following stitch, and so on.
- Keep increasing until your coaster reaches the desired size.
- Finish off by cutting the yarn, pulling it through the loop, and weaving in the ends with a yarn needle.
Pro Tip: Crocheting a Coaster in different Colors
If you want to change colors at the end of a round, complete the last half double crochet of the round until the final yarn-over. Yarn over with the new color and pull it through all loops on the hook. Consistent Joins: If you want to maintain a consistent look where you join new colors, always join at the same spot in your project.
Securing Yarn Ends as You Go:
Weave in the ends as you go or at the end of your project. To weave as you go, crochet over the ends of your new color for a few stitches.
Remember, keeping your stitches even and not too tight is the key to a nice and even coaster. This will ensure your coaster lays flat and is the right size.
With the right tools at your fingertips, your first crochet coaster WIP will be finished in a breeze. KnitPro offers a vast range of beautiful, carefully designed single-ended crochet hooks, catering to all preferences and types of crocheters. Have fun experimenting with different color combinations to create a set of unique and personalized coasters!
