Coasters are a great beginner knitting project. They are simple, small, and inexpensive. They require only a small amount of time to make and, as is the case with this project, the use of a very basic stitch pattern. People who are more comfortable with knitting can make these coasters quickly for gifts or for their own homes.
Materials
- Worsted Weight Cotton Yarn (Such as Sugar ‘n Cream, as pictured)
- Size 8 Knitting Needles
- Yarn Needle
Instructions for Knitting Coasters
- Cast on 21 stitches
- Rows 1-5: Knit
- Row 6: Knit 3, Purl 15, Knit 3
- Row 7: Knit
- Rows 8-27: Repeat rows 6 and 7
- Rows 28-31: Knit
- Cast off. With yarn needle, sew in any loose ends.
- Repeat for desired number of coasters.
Variations on Coaster Pattern
Some variations on this coaster pattern are to use solid colored cotton instead of a multicolored version. Or, use a variety of solid colors, using a different coordinating color for each coaster in the set. Another method is to use two different colors of yarn, either two different solids or a solid for the boarder and a multicolored yarn for the inside of the coaster.
To make the boarder a different color, choose a main color and a contrast color. Using the main color cast on and work rows 1 through 5. Then, use the main color to knit the first three stitches of row 6, switch to the contrast color for the 15 purl stitches, and switch back to the main color for the last knit 3 stitches. Continue in the pattern (of using the main color for the first and last three stitches of each row) through row 27. Switch to the main color only for rows 28 through 31 and the cast off row.
The Finished Coasters
The completed coasters will absorb liquids and can easily be thrown in the washing machine for cleaning. To dry, simply lay flat on a surface so that they maintain their shape and size. If you put these coasters in the dryer, they will shrink and loose some of their shape, so machine drying is not recommended.
If giving a completed set of coasters as a gift, consider tying four coasters together with a ribbon. Or, consider giving a set of coasters as part of a larger gift basket with other kitchen items, such as dishcloths or kitchen towels.
For other simple knitting patterns, see the following:
Jeris Swanhorst - After earning a Bachelor's degree in English, Literature from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2005, Jeris Swanhorst went on to earn ...
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