A crochet coaster is the perfect first project — and the perfect last-minute Christmas gift. In this tutorial you’ll follow a free crochet coaster pattern for a round coaster in about 30 minutes, learn the simple rule that keeps circles flat, and get ideas to turn it into festive peppermint, snowflake and wreath coasters.
💡 Once you’ve finished this free project, you’ll find our peppermint, snowflake and wreath coaster set pattern at the end of the tutorial.
In this tutorial
What You Need
- 100% cotton worsted (#4) yarn — cotton absorbs drips and handles hot mugs
- 4.0 mm (G-6) hook
- Yarn needle and scissors
Abbreviations (US terms): MR = magic ring, ch = chain, sl st = slip stitch, sc = single crochet, hdc = half double crochet, dc = double crochet, inc = 2 sc in the same stitch, dec = single crochet two together (invisible decrease recommended), BLO = back loop only. The number in brackets is the stitch count at the end of the round.
The Golden Rule of Flat Circles
Add the same number of stitches in every round. In double crochet, that number is 12. If your circle ruffles, you’re adding too many; if it cups into a bowl, you’re adding too few.
Free Pattern: Round Cotton Coaster (about 4.5 in / 11.5 cm)
The ch 3 at the start of each round counts as the first dc. Join each round with a sl st to the top of the ch 3.
Round 1: MR, ch 3, 11 dc in the ring. Pull tight and join. (12)
Round 2: ch 3, dc in the same st, 2 dc in each st around. Join. (24)
Round 3: ch 3, 2 dc in the next st, *dc in next st, 2 dc in next st* around. Join. (36)
Round 4: ch 3, dc in next st, 2 dc in next st, *dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st* around. Join. (48)
Round 5: ch 1, sc in each st around. Join, fasten off and weave in. (48)
Block It Flat
- Spray the coaster lightly with water.
- Pin it on a towel or foam mat, gently stretching it into a circle.
- Let it dry completely — it will stay flat.
Free printable version
Prefer paper? Download this free tutorial as a printable PDF to keep next to your yarn.
Loved making this?
Your coaster is done — that's a real gift already. Imagine a matching set of peppermint, snowflake and wreath coasters on your Christmas table, holding cocoa mugs through every December evening. Our Christmas Coaster Set pattern gives you all three designs, step by step.
Yes, I want to make it – $2Instant PDF download · stitch counts on every row · US terms
3 Christmas Variations
- Peppermint: work Rounds 1–4 in white, then add red “stripes” with surface slip stitches from the center to the edge, 6 times.
- Snowflake: make the coaster in light blue and embroider a white snowflake with 3 crossing lines and small “V”s at each tip.
- Wreath: work Round 1 in white, Rounds 2–5 in green, and sew a small red bow on top.
Gift Ideas
- Stack 4 coasters and tie them with twine and a tag.
- Pair a set with a mug and a hot chocolate packet.
- Make one for every guest at Christmas dinner as a place card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my coaster wavy?
Check your stitch count — you probably added extra stitches. Blocking also helps a lot.
Can I use acrylic?
It works, but acrylic repels water, so mugs can slide. Cotton is best.
Just starting out? Our beginner guide explains every stitch. Want something prettier? Try our free flower coaster.
Happy hooking! 🧶 Ready for the next step? The Christmas Coaster Set: Peppermint, Snowflake & Wreath pattern is just $2 — and every purchase helps us keep writing free tutorials like this one.
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