Dragonfly

Dragonfly Coaster by Arella Seaton Design

Project Overview

The Dragonfly coaster is the second pattern in the Putukad Collection by independent designer Arella Seaton. This is a small, decorative table setting accessory measuring 15 x 15 cm (6 x 6 inches) when completed. The coaster features an intricate dragonfly motif worked in a two-color mosaic knit pattern, making it both functional and visually striking for any table setting.

Craft and Techniques

This project is created using the knitting craft with mosaic pattern techniques. Mosaic knitting is a colorwork method that creates detailed designs without traditional stranded colorwork, making it an excellent technique for knitters who want to avoid managing multiple yarn colors simultaneously. The pattern uses two colors—a main color (MC) and a contrasting color (CC)—to build the dragonfly design row by row.

The coaster is worked flat from a chart or written instructions, with the contrasting color introduced on Row 2. A key technique emphasized in this pattern is managing floats (the strands of unused yarn carried across the back of the work). Knitters must keep these floats loose enough to prevent the fabric from puckering, which is essential for maintaining an even, professional appearance in the finished coaster.

Finishing techniques include weaving in yarn ends, steam blocking or soaking and blocking the completed coaster, and attaching decorative fringe tassels for a polished final touch.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the primary stitch used throughout the pattern
• Slip stitch (sl st/s) – used in mosaic colorwork to create the pattern without knitting with both colors in the same row
• Purl stitch (pw) – referenced in abbreviations for pattern variations

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Sport weight yarn (5 ply), with approximately 159 meters (174 yards) per 50 grams (1.76 oz). The pattern requires approximately 10 grams (0.35 oz) each of the main color and contrasting color. Sport weight yarn is a lightweight, versatile yarn that creates a fine, delicate fabric ideal for small projects like coasters.

Needles: 3 mm / US 2½ needles are required for this project.

Notions: A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends and attaching the fringe tassels.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 26 stitches by 52 rows over 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 inches) when worked in mosaic pattern. While gauge is noted as not crucial to this project, variations in tension will affect both the final size of the coaster and the amount of yarn required to complete it.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Advanced Beginner difficulty. While the basic stitches involved are fundamental, the mosaic colorwork technique and careful float management require some experience beyond absolute beginner level. Knitters should be comfortable with basic knitting techniques and have some familiarity with reading charts or written pattern instructions before attempting this design.