Welcome, fellow yarn crafters! If you are looking for a quick, charming, and practical project to brighten up your coffee table, you are going to love this adorable crochet squirrel coaster pattern. Whether you are using up your yarn stash or crafting a cute housewarming gift, this project combines functionality with forest-inspired whimsy.
In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to create your very own woodland critter coaster, from essential materials to the final stitch. Grab your hook, pick out your favorite autumn-inspired shades, and let’s get crafting!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Category 4) cotton yarn. Cotton is durable, heat-resistant, absorbent, and holds its shape best for coasters. You’ll need main color (brown/grey), a small amount for the accent belly, and scraps for features if embroidering.
- Crochet Hook: US Size G/6 (4.0 mm) or the size needed to obtain a firm gauge.
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and stitch markers.
- Optional: Small amount of felt or embroidery floss for facial details.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- US Terminology
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- st(s): stitch(es)
- inc: increase (work 2 sts in the same st)
- Notes: The coaster is worked primarily in the round for the base, with added shaping for the tail and ears. Maintain a firm, consistent tension so your coaster lays flat and protects surfaces effectively.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- The Base: Start with a magic ring using your main color. Ch 1, work 8 sc in the ring. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (8 sts)
- Round 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each st around. Join with sl st. (16 sts)
- Round 3: Ch 1, *1 sc in next st, inc in next st; repeat from * around. Join with sl st. (24 sts)
- Round 4: Ch 1, *1 sc in each of the next 2 sts, inc in next st; repeat from * around. Join with sl st. (32 sts) Fasten off the circular base.
- The Tail: Attach yarn to the outer edge of the base where the back of the squirrel will sit. Ch 6, working back down the chain: sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next ch, hdc in next ch, dc in next 2 chs. Skip 1 stitch on the base body and sl st into the next stitch to secure the tail. Fasten off.
- The Ears: Attach yarn near the top of the head area. Ch 2, work 1 sc in the same space, sl st to the next base stitch to anchor the first ear. Skip 2 stitches, attach yarn for the second ear: ch 2, 1 sc in same space, sl st to anchor. Fasten off.
- Border & Edging: Join your main color anywhere along the bottom edge. Work a round of surface sl st or a neat sc border around the entire outer perimeter of the coaster, smoothing out the silhouette of the head, body, and tail. Join and fasten off.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Weave in Ends Securely: Because coasters experience frequent movement and washing, use your yarn needle to weave in all loose tails securely on the wrong side of the work.
- Block Your Coaster: Lightly steam or wet-block your finished squirrel coaster to ensure the edges lie completely flat without curling.
- Consistent Tension: Keep your stitches snug. A tighter gauge prevents liquid from seeping through to your furniture.
- Get Creative with Colors: Try crafting a whole set using different shades of brown, grey, and even rust orange to mimic a playful family of autumn squirrels!
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: