Welcome, fellow crafters! If you’re looking for a project that is as functional as it is adorable, you have come to the right place. These charming crocheted duck coasters are the perfect way to add a bit of handmade whimsy to your coffee table. Whether you are a beginner looking for a simple project or an experienced crocheter wanting to whip up a quick, thoughtful gift, these little ducks are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Because they are quick to work up, these coasters are an excellent way to use up your yarn scraps while creating something that protects your furniture from moisture and heat. Let’s get our hooks ready and bring these little friends to life!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: Medium-weight (worsted/aran) cotton yarn in yellow (body), orange (beak), and a small amount of black (eyes). Cotton is recommended for its absorbency and durability.
- Crochet Hook: Size 4.0mm (G) or 4.5mm (H) to ensure tight, stable stitches.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and embroidering the eyes.
- Scissors: For cutting yarn.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- ch: Chain
- sc: Single crochet
- inc: Increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
- sl st: Slip stitch
- st: Stitch
- Pattern Note: Work in continuous rounds unless otherwise specified. Use a stitch marker to keep track of the start of your round. Keep your tension firm to ensure the coaster remains flat and dense.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- The Body (Yellow): Start with a magic ring. Round 1: Work 6 sc into the ring (6 sts).
- Round 2: 2 sc in each st around (12 sts).
- Round 3: *1 sc, inc* repeat around (18 sts).
- Round 4: *2 sc, inc* repeat around (24 sts).
- Round 5: *3 sc, inc* repeat around (30 sts).
- Round 6: *4 sc, inc* repeat around (36 sts). Join with a sl st to the first st, fasten off.
- The Beak (Orange): Join orange yarn to a stitch on the edge of the body. Ch 2, 2 dc into the next stitch, ch 2, sl st into the same stitch. Fasten off.
- The Eyes (Black): Using your tapestry needle and a length of black yarn, embroider a small French knot or a simple “v” stitch above the beak to create a cute, expressive face.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Weaving Ends: Be sure to weave your yarn ends securely into the back of the coaster. Since these will be used under mugs, keeping the back flat and knot-free is essential for stability.
- Stiffening: If your coasters feel a bit too floppy, you can lightly steam block them. Lay them flat, pin them into a perfect circle, and gently steam them with an iron (do not touch the iron directly to the yarn).
- Maintenance: To keep your duck coasters looking their best, hand wash them in cool water with mild detergent. Lay them flat on a towel to air dry, which helps them maintain their shape and prevents shrinking.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with colors! A “rubber ducky” yellow is classic, but white or even pastel-colored ducks make for a charming, modern set for your home.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: