Smiling Face Coaster

Smiling Face Coaster by Susan Lowman

What Is Being Made

The Smiling Face Coaster is a small circular crocheted coaster designed by Susan Lowman, measuring 4 3/4" in diameter. This beginner-friendly project creates a functional table setting accessory featuring a cheerful smiling face design worked in worsted weight cotton yarn primarily in yellow with black accents for facial features.

Craft and Technique

This project uses the crochet technique, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to practice fundamental skills. The coaster is constructed in the round, beginning with a magic ring foundation and progressing through six rounds of increasing stitches. The circular construction method allows for an even, symmetrical finished piece suitable for a coaster application.

Stitches Used

The Smiling Face Coaster employs several essential crochet stitches:

• Chain stitch (ch) — used to create the initial foundation ring
• Slip stitch (sl st) — used to join the chain into a ring at the beginning
• Single crochet (sc) — the primary stitch throughout all six rounds, creating a dense, stable fabric ideal for a coaster that will support glasses and mugs

The pattern uses strategic increases (working 2 single crochets in one stitch) distributed across the rounds to create the circular shape, expanding from 8 stitches in Round 1 to 48 stitches by Round 6.

Materials and Tools

This project requires worsted weight cotton yarn in two colors: 20 yards of yellow for the main body and 1 yard of black for the facial features. A Size I (5.5 mm) crochet hook is specified, though the pattern notes that hook size may be adjusted as needed to achieve proper gauge. Additional supplies include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and securing the black yarn details, and a stitch marker to track the beginning of each round.

Gauge and Finished Size

The pattern specifies a gauge of Rounds 1 through 3 equaling 1 3/4" diameter, ensuring consistent sizing. The finished coaster measures 4 3/4" in diameter, making it a practical size for standard beverage glasses and mugs.