Recent projects: Baby Blanket

Good morning friends,

Coming soon, I will share my round up of my favorite free crochet afghan patterns, but first I wanted to share my completed Baby Blanket.

I followed a beautiful free pattern from Modern Grace Design. The pattern as written creates a stroller/crib sized baby blanket, however the pattern is easily adaptable to create a larger blanket.

I especially adore the edging, which alternates between the primary color and the contrast color and finishes with ruffles. 

My blanket turned out a bit lopsided, I likely added a few extra stitches here and there, but I don't think the baby will mind. :) 

Baby blankets are a great way to tell someone you haven't met yet how much you love them and can't wait to meet them.

Big thanks to Alison of Modern Grace Design for sharing this free pattern with us. I have already started my second blanket with this pattern for my niece who will be joining the universe in March. 

Thank you for stopping by and be sure to visit Thread by Thread Zen again soon!

Cheers,

- Katie Rose

Free Crochet Coaster Pattern Round-Up

Hello, friends! As promised, it is time for another super exciting free crochet pattern round up! Today’s theme: coasters. 

Why coasters? 

• Coasters are a great way for beginning crocheters to practice stitches and build confidence in their craft.
• Coasters are also a great way for long time crocheters to artfully employ the odds and ends of their yarn drawer/closet/room. :) We call this type of project a “stashbuster.” 
• You can make a set of four coasters in the time it takes to watch a few episodes of “Sherlock.” Unless you are too distracted by Benedict Cumberbatch’s cheekbones. 
• Coasters make great gifts. I especially like giving coasters for housewarming gifts.

Now, here are five of my favorite free crochet coaster patterns!

Cool Coasters

This is my go-to coaster pattern. I have a set on my coffee tables, and I have given many sets as gifts. Though the pattern calls for sport weight yarn, I have always made these coasters with worsted weight yarn as that is what I have the most of on hand, and they have turned out great. This pattern comes from the Crochet Spot, which has many excellent tutorials, free patterns, and a premium pattern shop.

1893 Circle Motif (Click link for pattern and photo)

There’s something so cool about working with a crochet pattern that is over 100 years old. Sandi Marshall adapted the pattern from a 1893 publication titled Fancy Work Manual. Add a vintage touch to your coffee tables with these coasters. 

Crocheted Plastic Bag Coasters

An eco-friendly idea from Country Woman Magazine, these coasters are made with a size G hook and plastic shopping bags.

Crochet Fruit Coasters Pattern

Sarah from Repeat Crafter Me shares this adorable set of six crocheted fruit coaster patterns. These would be a big hit at any summer picnic! 

My Simple Star Coaster

Designed by Aurora Suominen of Designs on a Hook, these gorgeous star coasters are on my “make very soon!” list. I love stars, and it seems like this pattern would also be a great motif for embellishing an afghan or purse, or for joining and making into a scarf. 

Did we miss your favorite free crochet coaster pattern? Share it in the comments!

Have a great weekend and thank you for visiting Thread by Thread Zen!

Cheers,

- Katie Rose