Transform your coffee table with a touch of handmade charm! These cat-themed coasters are the perfect blend of functionality and whimsy, offering a cozy resting spot for your favorite mugs. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, this project adds a playful, feline personality to any room.
Materials Needed
To get started on your feline-inspired creations, gather the following supplies:
- Hook: 3mm crochet hook
- Yarn: Acrylic yarn (chosen for its durability and easy maintenance)
- Additional Supplies: Felt (for detailing), and basic sewing or gluing tools for the finish.
The Crochet Process
The construction of the coaster follows a circular pattern to create the cat’s face, followed by specific stitch clusters to form the ears.
The Base Circle
- Foundation: Start with a magic ring (magic yarn) to ensure the center of your coaster is tightly closed.
- Row 1: Work 3 chains (counts as first stitch), followed by 11 double crochets into the ring. Close with 1 slip stitch.
- Row 2: Work 3 chains, then place 2 double crochets in every stitch around. Finish with 1 slip stitch.
- Row 3: Work 3 chains, then follow a pattern of 2 double crochets in one stitch, followed by 1 double crochet in the next. Repeat this sequence around and close with 1 slip stitch.
- Row 4: Work 3 chains. Follow the increase pattern (2 double crochets, then 1 double crochet) around the circle to reach the final diameter. Finish with 1 slip stitch.
Creating the Ears and Border
To give the coaster its distinct “cat” shape, you will work into the outer edge:
- First Ear: In the 3rd stitch from your starting point, work (1 triple crochet + 1 chain + 1 triple crochet + 3 double crochets). Secure the ear by placing 1 single crochet in the 3rd stitch from the cluster.
- The Gap: Work 7 single crochets along the edge to space out the ears.
- Second Ear: In the 3rd stitch, work (1 triple crochet + 1 chain + 1 triple crochet + 3 double crochets). Secure with 1 single crochet in the 3rd stitch.
- Finishing: Single crochet around the remainder of the circle. End with 1 slip stitch and 1 chain to fasten off.
Tips for Success
Choosing Your Color Palette
While “cat colors” like black, white, and ginger are classics, don’t be afraid to experiment. Variegated yarns can create a “calico” look without the need for frequent yarn changes.
Blocking Your Coasters
Since coasters need to sit flat to prevent drinks from tipping, consider “blocking” your finished pieces. Pinning them to shape and lightly steaming them ensures they stay perfectly circular and professional-looking.
Customizing with Felt
Felt is an excellent medium for adding facial features. Cutting out small triangles for inner ears or tiny circles for eyes adds a 3D element that makes the coasters pop against the crochet texture.
Step-by-Step Guide
The below video contains all the steps you need to visualize the stitch placement and assembly of your cat coasters.