Backyard Trivet

Backyard Trivet by Stephanie Anderson

What Is Being Made

The Backyard Trivet is a small, functional crochet project designed as a table setting accessory. This finished piece measures 5.5 inches by 5.5 inches, making it an ideal size for protecting table surfaces from hot dishes, pots, and pans. The trivet is worked in a flat, square construction using back-and-forth rows, creating a practical and decorative addition to any dining setup.

Craft and Techniques

This project is created using the crochet technique, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to develop fundamental crochet skills. The pattern is worked in back-and-forth rows, which means you will be turning your work at the end of each row rather than working in continuous rounds. This straightforward construction method helps build consistency and control in your stitching.

The pattern uses a turning chain 1 that does not count as a stitch, which is an important detail for maintaining proper stitch counts throughout the project. The design can be customized by adjusting the foundation chain to an odd number of stitches, allowing you to create a trivet in your preferred dimensions.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used in this pattern is FHDC (Front Half Double Crochet). The gauge for this stitch is 14 stitches in FHDC, which helps ensure your finished trivet reaches the intended dimensions. This stitch creates a dense, textured fabric that is both durable and visually appealing, making it well-suited for a functional trivet that will withstand regular use.

Materials and Tools

The Backyard Trivet pattern calls for worsted weight yarn, specifically recommending Knit Picks Dishie cotton yarn. One ball of this yarn contains 190 yards (212 meters) and weighs approximately 3.5 ounces (100 grams), providing ample yardage for this project. The pattern indicates you will need approximately 33 yards of yarn. Other worsted cotton weight yarn options can be substituted if desired.

For tools, you will need a US H-8 (5 mm) crochet hook and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends upon completion. The cotton yarn choice makes this trivet particularly practical for kitchen and dining use, as cotton is durable, washable, and heat-resistant compared to many synthetic fibers.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the Backyard Trivet is accessible to crocheters who are just starting their crafting journey. The straightforward row-by-row construction, simple stitch selection, and manageable finished size make this an ideal beginner pattern for building confidence and foundational crochet techniques.