Knitting is a wonderful hobby that can be both relaxing and rewarding. One of the many fun and practical projects you can make is knit coasters. Coasters are a great addition to any home, as they protect surfaces from water rings and spills while also adding a touch of style and personality. In this article, we’ll explore the steps to making knit coasters, along with some tips and tricks to help you create beautiful and functional pieces.
Materials:
To make knit coasters, you will need the following materials:
- Yarn (cotton or wool work well)
- Knitting needles (size US 7 or 8)
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
Instructions:
- Cast on stitches:
To begin, cast on an even number of stitches to your knitting needle. A good starting point for coaster size is 20 stitches.
- Knit the first row:
Once you have cast on your stitches, knit across the entire row.
- Purl the second row:
On the second row, purl across the entire row. This creates a stockinette stitch pattern.
- Continue knitting and purling:
Continue knitting one row and purling the next until your coaster reaches the desired size. A good size for a coaster is around 4 inches by 4 inches.
- Bind off:
When you have reached the desired size, bind off your stitches by knitting two stitches, then pulling the first stitch over the second stitch and off the knitting needle. Repeat this process until you have one stitch left. Cut your yarn, leaving a tail about 6 inches long, and pull the tail through the last stitch to secure it.
- Weave in ends:
Using a tapestry needle, weave in the ends of your yarn by threading the needle with the tail and weaving it back and forth through the stitches on the back of your coaster. Trim any excess yarn once the tail is secured.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a cotton or wool yarn for durability:
Cotton and wool yarns are both durable and absorbent, making them ideal for coasters. They also come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to create unique and personalized pieces.
- Experiment with stitch patterns:
While the stockinette stitch is a classic choice for coasters, don’t be afraid to experiment with other stitch patterns. Ribbing or garter stitch can add texture and visual interest to your coasters.
- Make a set:
Coasters are most effective when used as a set, so consider making multiple coasters in coordinating or contrasting colors to create a cohesive look.
- Personalize with embellishments:
If you’re feeling creative, consider adding embellishments to your coasters. You could sew on buttons, beads, or appliques to create a unique and personalized touch.
- Use circular needles for larger projects:
If you want to make larger items, such as placemats or table runners, consider using circular knitting needles. Circular needles allow you to knit in the round, creating a seamless piece without the need for seams or sewing.
Conclusion:
Knit coasters are a fun and practical project that can add a touch of style and personality to your home. With just a few materials and some basic knitting skills, you can create beautiful and functional pieces that protect your surfaces from water rings and spills. So why not give it a try? With a little creativity and imagination, the possibilities are endless.