Materials Needed and Measurements:
- Fingering Weight Yarn (14 wpi)
- Crochet Hook Size: 3.0 mm
- Yardage: 20 – 120 yards (18 – 110 meters)
- Suggested Yarn:
- Sandnes Garn Mandarin Petit
- Scheepjes Catona
- Krea Deluxe Organic Cotton
- Yarn Needle (for weaving in ends)
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape
- Crochet Terminology: US
Stitching Rounds
Foundation Ring
Start by creating a magic ring, or alternatively, you can Ch 4 and connect with a sl st to form a ring. Ch 3 (this counts as your first DC), then work 11 additional DCs into the ring, for a total of 12 DCs in the round.
Once complete, pull the loose end to tighten the ring, forming a compact center. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3 to close.
This forms the central foundation and base of the coaster, from which each layer of “rays” will extend.
First Layer – Basic Round
To begin the first decorative layer, Ch 1, SC into the same stitch as the joining sl st. Next, Ch 3, SK 1 stitch, and SC into the following stitch.
Continue this pattern around, repeating Ch 3, SK 1 stitch, and SC into the next stitch to create a series of small chain spaces between each SC.
This creates the initial outline of the coaster’s design, forming small openings around the center. Fasten with a sl st to the first SC to complete this round.
Petal Formation
For this round, sl st into the first Ch 3 space, then Ch 1. Work [SC, HDC, DC, HDC, SC] into each Ch 3 space around.
This stitch combination creates the effect of individual petals by forming a small arc within each chain space.
Each “petal” adds a layered floral texture to the coaster, building on the central foundation.
Continue this pattern around, working into each Ch 3 space to form eight distinct petals. Merge with a sl st to the first SC.
Creating Depth – Back Post Round
To add depth and definition, attach your yarn to the back post of any DC stitch in the previous petal round. For this round, work a BPDC (Back Post Double Crochet) around each stitch.
This technique raises the stitches slightly, accentuating the petal shapes and adding dimension to the mandala.
Working into the back post also helps the petals stand out more visibly. Connect with a sl st to the first BPDC to complete the back post round.
Expanding the Sunray Pattern
For this layer, Ch 4 (this counts as a TR), and then work a TR into each BPDC around. This round expands the mandala design by creating a ring of longer stitches that resemble rays of sunshine radiating from the center.
These taller stitches add a sense of openness to the design while forming a base for the following row of chain spaces.
Join with a sl st to the first TR and fasten off if you are changing colors for the next round.
Outer Chains for Sunray Effect
Reattach the yarn to any TR stitch and Ch 5. Skip the next TR, and SC into the following TR. Repeat the Ch 5, skip one stitch, SC in the next stitch pattern all the way around.
This creates evenly spaced chain spaces around the outer ring, setting up the final layer of petals in the next round.
These chain spaces help add a lacy, airy effect to the design, resembling rays extending from a central sun. Merge with a sl st to the first SC to close.
Finishing Round – Outer Petals
In each Ch 5 space around, work [SC, HDC, DC, TR, DC, HDC, SC] to form a larger petal shape in each chain space.
This final round of petals extends outward and completes the mandala’s floral design, adding a beautiful, delicate edge that frames the coaster.
The combination of different stitch heights in each petal adds texture and visual interest, giving the mandala a fuller, more elaborate look.
Join with a sl st to the first SC, fasten off, and weave in any remaining yarn ends with the yarn needle.
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