Hello, fellow yarn enthusiasts! Welcome to one of the most delightful and practical handmade projects you can hook up this season: the Crocheted Squirrel Coaster. This charming little woodland critter adds a warm, playful touch to your coffee table while keeping your surfaces safe from heat and moisture.
Whether you are looking to brighten up your own desk or craft a cute, memorable gift for a friend, this beginner-friendly pattern comes together in no time. Grab your hooks, pick out your favorite yarn colors, and let’s make something adorable together!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: 100% Cotton yarn (Worsted weight / #4) in main squirrel color (brown, gray, or cream) and a small amount of white or black for facial details. Cotton is absorbent, durable, and heat-resistant!
- Crochet Hook: Size US G/6 (4.0mm) or slightly smaller than yarn recommendation for tighter, sturdier stitches.
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving ends, sharp scissors, and stitch markers.
- Optional: Small amount of felt for backing and embroidery thread for facial features.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- US Terminology
- Ch: Chain
- Sl st: Slip stitch
- An introduction to your cozy woodland project.
- Sc: Single crochet
- Hdc: Half double crochet
- Dc: Double crochet
- Inc: Increase (work 2 sc in the same stitch)
- Dec: Decrease (sc 2 stitches together)
- Note: Work in continuous rounds unless otherwise stated. Use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning of your rounds.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- Round 1 (Base Circle): Start with a magic ring, ch 1, and work 6 sc into the ring. Pull tight to close. (6 sts)
- Round 2: Work an inc in each st around. (12 sts)
- Round 3: [Sc in next st, inc in next st] repeat around. (18 sts)
- Round 4: [Sc in next 2 sts, inc in next st] repeat around. (24 sts)
- Round 5 (Body & Head Shaping): Sc in the next 10 sts. Begin shaping the head by working [hdc, dc] in the next st, dc in the next st, [dc, hdc] in the next st. Sc in the remaining 11 sts to complete the round. Sl st to the first st and fasten off the main body color.
- Round 6 (The Bushy Tail): Attach your yarn to the back edge of the coaster body. Ch 3, work 2 dc in the same space, then create textured puff or bobble stitches along the outer edge to form the fluffy squirrel tail. Secure with a sl st and fasten off.
- Round 7 (Ears & Face): Attach yarn near the top of the head. Ch 2, sl st in the same space to form a tiny ear. Repeat for the second ear. Use a yarn needle and scrap yarn to embroider a simple eye and nose.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Weave Securely: Carefully weave in all loose ends on the wrong side of the coaster to ensure durability through daily use and washing.
- Block for Perfection: Lightly steam or block your finished coaster so it lays completely flat on your table.
- Add a Backing (Optional): Sew a thin circle of felt to the underside for extra stability and superior heat protection.
- Care Instructions: Hand wash gently in cool water with mild soap and lay flat to dry in order to preserve the crisp shape and yarn quality.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: