Crochet fruit coasters

Crochet coaster holder

One of the easiest ways to crochet fruit is to crochet circles in the colors of fruit slices. These circles can become a variety of items, the simplest of which is a coaster. These fruit-inspired crochet coasters designed by Marinke Slump for CraftTuts+ are a great beginner's crochet project. You can vary the colors to get different fruits; for example, use the lemon coaster crochet pattern with green yarn for a lime coaster.

The terrific texture on a color burst crochet coaster pattern makes for a great cushion for your glass. This free pattern can be worked in lots of different colors! It is also a great free flower crochet pattern.

X crochet coasters have an original shape that is accented by an X that develops across it as you work the color changes and spaces. This is another design that really works all year round in any setting. It is made using only simple single and double crochet stitches.

A lacy shells crochet coaster pattern is square, with elongated corners, and is made using beautiful shell stitches that give a lacy feel to the design. These coasters work in any setting

Crochet designer Megan Hocking shares, "Mandala coasters remind me of an old ship's wheel and are reminiscent of summer days in the sun." She suggests playing with color changes, including working them in only one solid color. She sells the pattern through Ravelry, where she also sells several other great coaster crochet patterns.

The mud cloth crochet pattern is inspired by a bold tribal-inspired design. Although it looks intricate, the designer says that these coasters are simple enough for beginner crocheters.

Upcycle plastic bags to create red, white and blue crochet coasters. They also have a matching placemat crochet pattern. This is perfect for a variety of American holidays. The same idea could be used in different colors to make picnic coasters for everyone.