Knitted Dad Coasters in Deramores Studio DK Acrylic - Downloadable PDF

Knitted Dad Coasters in Deramores Studio DK Acrylic

What is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a set of knitted coasters designed by Sarah Murray. Each finished coaster measures approximately 11cm in diameter, making them practical decorative pieces suitable for protecting surfaces from drinks and hot cups. The pattern is categorized as an intermediate-level knitting project, appropriate for crafters with foundational knitting experience who are ready to develop their skills further.

Yarn Materials

The Knitted Dad Coasters are designed to be worked in Deramores Studio DK Acrylic yarn, a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating defined stitch definition and structured fabric. The pattern calls for three coordinating colorways:

• Yarn A: Indigo (1 x 100g)
• Yarn B: Frost (1 x 100g)
• Yarn C: Raspberry (1 x 100g)

This three-color combination creates visual interest and allows crafters to experiment with color blocking or striped effects throughout the coaster design.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires 3mm knitting needles. Specifically, a set of four 3mm double-pointed needles is recommended, which facilitates working in the round—a common technique for creating circular or medallion-style coasters without seaming.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies that 26 stitches and 30 rows should measure 10cm over stocking stitch when worked on 3mm needles. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their tension matches these specifications, as variations will affect the finished size of the coasters.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Knitted Dad Coasters employ fundamental knitting stitches and shaping techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level:

• Knit (K): The basic knit stitch forms the foundation of the fabric.
• Purl (P): Purl stitches are incorporated to create texture and visual contrast within the design.
• Stocking Stitch (St st): This classic combination of knit and purl rows creates a smooth, uniform fabric surface ideal for coasters.
• Decreases (Dec): Decreasing by working 2 stitches together reduces stitch count, essential for shaping the circular coaster form and creating tapered edges.
• Increases (Inc): Increasing by working into the front and back of the same stitch adds stitches where needed to expand the fabric diameter.

Designer Background

Sarah Murray, the designer of this pattern, is a freelance knitting and crochet designer based in Cornwall. Her work has been published in several magazines, and she regularly contributes pattern writing and editing services to various publishers. Murray draws inspiration from the Cornish landscape, incorporating design elements such as twists, cables, and other textural techniques, along with colors inspired by the sea—elements that may be reflected in the colorway selections and stitch patterns used throughout the Knitted Dad Coasters.

Project Classification

This pattern is classified as a decorations and dishcloths project, emphasizing its dual purpose as both functional home accessories and decorative elements that add handmade charm to any kitchen or dining space.