This crochet pumpkin coaster pattern is a fast seasonal project for a fall coffee table or handmade gift set. The center is a flat circle, while the final round creates six gentle lobes that suggest a pumpkin without making the coaster bulky.
Use absorbent cotton and keep the stitches even so a mug sits securely. The pattern uses US crochet terminology.
Quick pattern details
- Skill level: beginner
- Worked in joined rounds
- Finished diameter: about 4.5–5 in (11.5–13 cm)
- Best yarn: smooth worsted cotton
Materials
- 25–35 yd (23–32 m) worsted-weight cotton in orange, rust, or cream
- Small amount of green or brown cotton
- 4 mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle, scissors, and stitch marker
Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- st(s): stitch(es)
Before you begin
The turning chain does not count as a stitch. Join each round to the first real stitch and place a marker there. If the circle cups, loosen your tension; if it waves before the decorative round, use a slightly smaller hook.
Step-by-step instructions
Round 1
Make a magic ring. Chain 2, work 12 dc into the ring, pull the ring closed, and join with a sl st to the first dc. You have 12 stitches.
Round 2
Chain 2. Work 2 dc in every stitch around. Join to the first dc. You have 24 stitches.
Round 3
Chain 2. Repeat 1 dc in the next stitch, 2 dc in the following stitch around. Join. You have 36 stitches.
Pumpkin-lobe round
Chain 1. Repeat this six-stitch sequence around: sc, hdc, 2 dc in the next stitch, 2 dc in the next stitch, hdc, sc. Join to the first sc. This forms six soft lobes.
Stem
Join green or brown yarn at the top between two lobes. Chain 4. Starting in the second chain from the hook, slip stitch in each chain. Slip stitch into the coaster again and fasten off.
Finish
Weave all ends toward the center of the coaster and trim. Lightly steam or wet block the piece flat according to the yarn label.
Troubleshooting and useful tips
- Use cotton rather than acrylic near hot drinkware because cotton is more absorbent and less heat-sensitive.
- Keep the final lobes low; tall clusters can make a mug wobble.
- If the coaster is smaller than expected, add one standard increase round before the lobe round: repeat 2 dc, 2 dc in next stitch.
- Make the magic ring tail at least 6 inches and weave it securely in several directions.
Ways to customize it
- Work a set in pumpkin colors such as cream, terracotta, mustard, and sage.
- Embroider two or three subtle vertical lines from the center outward after blocking.
- For a trivet, continue increasing the flat circle and use heat-safe cotton; do not use plastic embellishments.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start without a magic ring?
Yes. Chain 4, join into a ring, and work the first 12 dc into the center.
Why is my coaster curling?
The hook may be too small or your tension too tight. Block it first; if it still cups, remake with a larger hook.
Can I sell finished coasters?
You can sell items you make from this free pattern; use your own photos and mention EmmaCrochet as the pattern source.
Keep learning
For cleaner finishing, review the crochet slip stitch guide. You may also like the classic easy crochet coaster.
Photo: Olesia Hnatkevych / Unsplash.