Heart Coaster

Heart Coaster by Susan Lowman

What Is Being Made

The Heart Coaster is a small decorative and functional table accessory designed to protect surfaces from moisture and heat. This beginner-friendly crochet project creates a finished piece measuring 4 3/4 inches wide by 5 inches high, making it an ideal size for holding a standard drinking glass or mug. The coaster features a classic heart shape, perfect for adding a charming accent to any table setting or as a handmade gift.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for beginners learning core skills. The coaster is constructed using increases worked throughout the piece to shape the heart form. The pattern utilizes the sc2tog joining technique, which involves creating a slip knot on the hook, inserting the hook into specified stitches, drawing up loops, and then yarning over to draw through multiple loops on the hook in a single motion. This method allows for seamless joining of sections.

The construction begins with a simple chain foundation and builds outward using increases in single crochet stitches. Increases are strategically placed at the beginning and end of rows to expand the width, creating the characteristic curved shape of a heart. Stitch markers are used to track pattern placement and ensure accurate shaping throughout the project.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch): The foundation stitch used to begin the coaster
• Single crochet (sc): The primary stitch throughout the entire pattern, providing a dense, sturdy fabric ideal for a functional coaster
• Slip stitch (sl st): Used for joining sections together
• Increases (2 sc in same stitch): Worked to shape the heart silhouette by expanding rows at strategic points

Materials and Specifications

The Heart Coaster is worked in worsted weight cotton yarn, which provides excellent absorbency and durability for a functional coaster. The pattern requires 12 yards of red yarn for the main body and 4 yards of white yarn for contrast or accent details. A Size I (5.5 mm) crochet hook is recommended, though the pattern notes that hook size may be adjusted as needed to achieve proper gauge.

The specified gauge is 8 single crochet stitches = 2 inches and 8 single crochet rows = 2 inches, ensuring the finished coaster reaches the intended dimensions. Additional materials include 2 stitch markers to help track increases and maintain pattern accuracy during construction.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an Easy skill level project, the Heart Coaster is ideal for beginners and those new to crochet. The pattern focuses on mastering fundamental stitches and basic shaping techniques without complex stitch combinations or advanced construction methods. This makes it an excellent first project for building confidence and understanding how simple increases can create recognizable shapes in crochet.